Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease is an allergic disease of the horse'slungs, causing the small airways to constrict making it harder for the horse to breathe. As a result, the horse may breathe faster or deeper than usual, and it may cough.
Coughing - A symptom of COPD in horses
Heaving or coughing, lack of energy, and weight loss are indicators that horses have Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease.
Many cases are very mild, and the signs may only be noticeable when the horse is exercised, but some cases can be very severe, causing permanent damage to the lungs, also known as heaves and broken win.
The most common causes of COPD in horses are the fungal spores found on hay or straw. This is why COPD is usually seen when horses are stabled in the winter. Dusty stables, barns and arenas, or even dusty shavings, can also be implicated.
Horses that are seven years-old or older are typically the ones that get COPD. Pasteurized horses in warm climates are less likely to get the disease. Heaving or coughing, lack of energy, and weight loss are indicators of this disease.
Horses need to be turned out of their stalls as much as possible as a means to take preventive measures. The stalls and barn area should also be kept dust and mold free as well. Avoid moldy or dusty hay and try to use shredded paper or rubber mats in the stalls rather than using straw.
Dust in the stable can be reduced by feeding good quality haylage or vacuum-packed hay, or good quality soaked hay that has been soaked for about half an hour. Hard feed can be dampened with a little water prior to feeding to contain any dust in it.
Bronchodilators such as Ventipulmin may be prescribed to widen the airways and assist breathing. Inhalers are now used also and are very safe for long-term use.
If the condition is severe or unresponsive to other treatments, it may be necessary for the horse to have a course of corticosteroid tablets or injections.
Learn more about COPD