Companion Animal Welfare

Horse Respiratory Health in Stabling

Stable environments expose horses to dust, ammonia, and airborne allergens that cause respiratory disease affecting millions of horses globally.

Key Facts

Equine asthma (formerly RAO/heaves) affects up to 14% of horses in temperate climates
Stable dust from hay and bedding is the primary trigger for most equine respiratory disease
Dust-free bedding and haylage or soaked hay dramatically reduce respiratory exposure
Stable ventilation design significantly affects airborne particle levels
Affected horses experience breathlessness and coughing analogous to severe human asthma

Welfare Considerations

Respiratory disease causes chronic discomfort and exercise intolerance in affected horses, often going underrecognized. Management changes - particularly dust reduction in bedding and forage - can transform welfare outcomes without medication.

What You Can Do

Switch to dust-extracted bedding and haylage for horses with respiratory signs
Ensure adequate stable ventilation, particularly in winter when doors are kept closed
Seek veterinary assessment for horses showing persistent coughing or increased breathing effort