Recurrent airway obstruction (RAO), formerly called heaves or COPD, is a common and chronic respiratory condition in horses causing significant welfare impacts that can be managed effectively.
RAO causes significant respiratory distress and exercise intolerance, reducing quality of life. In severe cases, horses show laboured breathing at rest with marked abdominal effort. Welfare management focuses on dust minimisation through soaking hay, using haylage or dust-free forage, maximising turnout, using dust-free bedding, and providing bronchodilator and corticosteroid treatment during acute episodes.