Stick to Basics to Help Horse’s Airways

According to a study published by Dutch researchers, low-dust bedding and feed resulted in significant reductions in airborne dust, endotoxin, and live fungi levels in horse barns.^* Specifically, inhalable dust concentrations were 86% lower in units with wood shavings and haylage (low-dust bedding and feed) compared to those with straw and hay.

“Minute airborne particles can settle in the airways of horses, causing inflammation and obstruction and potentially equine asthma, also known as recurrent airway obstruction or heaves,” explained Kathleen Crandell, Ph.D., a Kentucky Equine Research nutritionist.

In addition to endotoxins and live fungi, inhalable dust particles can also contain other airway irritants such as beta-D-glucan (a type of fiber), ultra-fine particles (<100 nm in diameter), microorganisms, mite debris, vegetative material, inorganic dusts, and noxious gases such as ammonia from urine.

“Owners are encouraged to stick to the tried-and-true methods of improving air quality,” recommended Crandell. “Low-dust hay, hay soaking, and hay alternatives could help horses with equine asthma. If you need help with any of these options, be sure to consult a KER nutrition advisor to find viable options for your horse.”

Studies also show that omega-3 supplements, such as EO-3, help horses with equine asthma. EO-3, which contains the omega-3 fatty acids DHA and EPA, is top-dressed onto the feed and helps horses with equine asthma, including heaves in older horses and inflammatory airway disease in young, athletic horses.

^*Siegers, E.W., M. Anthonisse, F.J.C.M. van Eerdenburg, et al. Effect of ionization, bedding, and feeding on air quality in a horse stable. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine 32:1234-1240.