Horse Breathing Problems: Equine Asthma Welfare

Understanding equine asthma, how it affects horse welfare, and what management strategies can help horses breathe comfortably.

Key Facts

Equine asthma (formerly called COPD or heaves) affects an estimated 14% of horses in some populations
Dust and mould spores from hay and bedding are the primary environmental triggers
Severe equine asthma causes significant respiratory distress and markedly reduces quality of life
Soaking or steaming hay reduces dust particles by up to 98%, dramatically improving symptoms
Horses with asthma kept at pasture show significantly fewer symptoms than those kept in stables

Welfare Considerations

Equine asthma causes chronic respiratory difficulty that affects horses every moment of every day, not just during exercise. Horses with moderate to severe disease breathe with visible effort at rest, and their abdominal muscles hypertrophy from the constant work of forced exhalation. This is a significant and preventable welfare problem — the primary drivers are environmental and can be addressed through changes in management. Steaming hay, using dust-extracted bedding, improving stable ventilation, and maximising turnout can dramatically reduce symptoms. The welfare impact of these changes is immediate and substantial.

What You Can Do

Steam or thoroughly soak hay before feeding to reduce dust and mould exposure
Switch from straw to low-dust bedding options such as rubber matting or paper
Maximise turnout and keep asthmatic horses outside whenever weather permits
Ensure stables have excellent ventilation — fresh air flow is critical for respiratory health
Work with your vet to develop a management plan and consider environmental management before medication