Equine Asthma and natural therapy

Equine asthma is a serious condition requiring accurate diagnosis, management, and treatment. Can complementary therapies serve as effective treatments?

Breathing through a straw while running mimics an asthmatic's struggle. Horses experience similar challenges. Severe equine asthma (SEA) typically affects horses over seven, with more than one in seven potentially impacted.

Treatment must begin promptly to support their respiratory health, enabling them to work effectively for years.

This presentation examines the effects of asthma on horses, measures for owners, potential triggers, alternative treatment options, and long-term management for competition horses, considering drug therapy restrictions.

Managing Respiratory Health in Horses

Proper ventilation in stables is crucial, especially for horses susceptible to respiratory issues or diagnosed with conditions like Equine Asthma (EA). EA encompasses various respiratory diseases, including Inflammatory Airway Disease (IAD), Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), Recurrent Airway Obstruction (RAO), and Heaves. While turnout is preferable for horses with these conditions, it’s not always possible. Furthermore, during spring and summer, horses may also encounter increased allergy risks from plants, trees, and pollens.

Hay and Dust Management

When stabled, hay can significantly contribute to airborne particles that exacerbate respiratory issues. Here are effective strategies to manage hay-related dust:

• Steaming Hay: This method effectively reduces dust and mold content in hay.
• EquiCube: Consider using dust-free alternatives like Hi Form Complete AlphaFibre or FibrePlus for fiber intake.
• Feeding Practices: Feed smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day to minimize chewing time. Use slow feeder hay nets for steamed hay and place feed at ground level to reduce inhalation of particles. Eating from high feeders can cause health issues, while a natural head-down position aids in clearing the respiratory tract.

Nutritional Support for Respiratory Health

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for respiratory health, enhancing the integrity of cell membranes in the body, including the lungs. High-quality sources rich in DHA and EPA, such as cold-pressed flaxseed oil, can provide anti-inflammatory benefits. Hi Form AlphaFlax oil is an excellent option due to its cold-pressed and human-grade standards.

Research suggests that steaming hay significantly reduces mold content and tracheal mucus. While steaming has been shown to induce BALF neutrophilia without causing clinical respiratory signs, more research is needed to fully understand its effectiveness in preventing or managing EA.

A comparative study found that steaming is more effective than soaking for reducing microbial allergens in hay (Moore-Colyer et al., 2014). Soaking can inadvertently increase bacterial counts, whereas steaming considerably lowers mold counts. Therefore, an effective management plan must include allergen exposure reduction and veterinarian-recommended treatments for horses with respiratory conditions like asthma.

Natural Assistance for Respiratory Conditions

RespiraFix is a natural herbal extract combined with Vitamin C that provides support for horses with respiratory conditions such as Asthma, COPD, and chronic coughing. Key ingredients include:

• Marshmallow: Soothes irritated airways and promotes mucus expulsion.
• Rosehip: A potent antioxidant rich in Vitamin C, aiding recovery from illness.
• Vitamin C: Supports horses with lower levels due to EA, combating oxidative stress in the lungs.
• Curcuma Longa: Reduces airway constriction and hypersensitivity with its antimicrobial properties.
• Withania: Boosts mental and physical health, assisting the immune system and reducing stress.
• Maritime Pine: Alleviates allergies and asthma, supporting skin and immune function.
• Chamomile: Known for its anti-inflammatory and sedative properties.
• Liquorice Root: Eases allergic responses and soothes irritated mucous membranes.

Conclusion

Effectively managing respiratory health in horses involves a combination of strategies:

1. Ensure well-ventilated stables or barns.
2. Minimize dust and potential allergens in paddocks.
3. Steaming hay is superior to soaking for reducing dust and microbial contamination.
4. Opt for natural feed options.
5. Consult a veterinarian for human-grade supplements that support respiratory management.

By integrating these practices, you can significantly enhance your horse's respiratory health.