Coughing Disorders

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Also known as Recurrent Airway Obstruction (RAO). This is an extremely serious condition, usually brought on by dust, mould and pollen spores that produce an allergic reaction. It then affects the bronchioles and alveolar sacs in the lungs, causing the horse to produce an increase of fluid and mucus, which then builds up and causes the obstruction which cause's difficulty in breathing. The excess mucus and fluid needs to be removed. The level of severity causes either a mild cough or a severe repetitive cough.

Coughing

This is caused by food being in the trachea instead of the oesophagus, causing a cough, a build up of phlegm, or allergies such as dust and mould spores from bedding or food. These can also irritate the linings of the lungs. Rest the horse and remove or reduce the cause of the cough. Ensure that utensils are clean and that only good quality food is being given. It may be necessary to soak the hay for at least 20 minutes to make the dust and mould spores to enlarge so that they cause little irritation or switch your horse to haylage. Any consistent symptoms must be seen by your vet.