Signs Of Equine Respiratory Problems Owners Should Not Ignore

This article looks at signs of equine respiratory problems owners should not ignore.

Respiratory problems are very common in horses and can have a variety of different causes. From bacterial infection to allergens, compromised respiratory can affect all horses at any life stage. But what are the signs of equine respiratory problems, and when should you call out a vet?

Early Signs of Respiratory Problems

Most equine respiratory diseases tend to cause similar symptoms in the early stages. This means it can be difficult to diagnose and differentiate problems through a clinical examination alone when caught early. However, through the running of laboratory tests, vets can decipher what exactly is causing the breathing issues, whether that’s a virus, bacteria, or an allergen.

Common early signs of respiratory disease include;

• Coughing
• Nasal Discharge
• Reluctance to Work

Although coughing is a clinical sign of respiratory disease, some horses with respiratory problems only present with this symptom occasionally or not at all!

Infectious Signs

If the respiratory problem is being caused by an infectious bacteria or virus, such as equine influenza, signs may include;

• Fever (rectal temperature above 38.5C)
• Depression
• Loss of Appetite
• Nasal discharge
• Increased size of lymph nodes/glands (situated between the jaw and throat)Gagging when eating
• Trouble when eating and swallowing

Fever can present intermittently, so when suspecting an infectious respiratory problem, monitor temperatures at least twice daily.

Less commonly, horses can suffer an infection of the lower respiratory tract with conditions such as bronchopneumonia and pleuropneumonia. Signs of infection can have a rapid onset and be life-threatening, or infection may present more long-term. Sign include;

• Weight Loss
• Colic
• Nasal Discharge with Blood

Non-Infectious Signs

For horses suffering from non-infectious respiratory diseases, such as Recurrent Airway Obstruction (RAO), owners can expect to notice the ‘early signs’ of respiratory disease, as well as;

• Increased Breathing Rate During Exercise
• Prolonged Recovery Rate After Exercise
• Increased Breathing Rate at Rest
• Increased Breathing Effort at Rest

We recommend any sign of respiratory changes or difficulty are assessed by veterinary professionals to maintain horse welfare.