Equine asthma — ranging from mild equine asthma (previously RAO) to severe forms — causes respiratory distress and significantly impacts quality of life in affected horses.
A horse with severe equine asthma is in genuine respiratory distress — each breath requires effort, exercise is profoundly limited, and the chronic inflammation causes lasting lung remodeling. The good news is that environmental management alone — high-quality haylage or steamed hay, dust-free bedding, good stable ventilation, and outdoor time — can dramatically reduce symptoms in most horses. Failing to address environmental triggers while relying solely on medication provides incomplete welfare benefit. The most welfare-positive approach combines environmental optimization with medical management as needed.