Why Is My Horse Coughing?

Coughing in horses is a non-specific symptom that can be easy to overlook — especially if it’s only occasional.

But even sporadic coughing can signal an underlying issue, so let’s walk through how to pinpoint the cause and support your horse’s respiratory health.

🔍 Step-by-Step Evaluation

1. Check for a Fever

Use any over-the-counter digital thermometer to take your horse’s rectal temperature (most accurate).

✅ A reading above 101.5°F is considered a fever➡️ Likely linked to a viral or bacterial infection

2. Look at Nasal Discharge

The color and consistency of nasal discharge can tell you a lot:

• Clear = Irritation (allergies, dust, mild inflammation)

• White or yellow = Likely infection

• One nostril only = Upper airway issue (like sinusitis)

• Both nostrils = Lower airway or lung issue

• Blood after exercise = Possible Exercise-Induced Pulmonary Hemorrhage (EIPH)

  Especially common in racehorses, barrel racers, or horses under intense exertion. Even without visible blood, EIPH may still be present.

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3. Is the Cough Triggered by Certain Activities?

• Happens during or after riding in dusty arenas?

• Coughing near hay, round bales, or inside the barn?

This may point to Equine Asthma or Inflammatory Airway Disease (IAD) — especially if the cough improves on pasture.

4. Is the Cough Seasonal?

Seasonal coughing is also a red flag for IAD or environmental allergies.

🩺 What Can Your Veterinarian Do?

Your vet can:

• Listen to the lungs and perform a rebreathing exam

• Run BAL (bronchoalveolar lavage) or TTW (transtracheal wash) to identify:

  • Inflammation

  • Blood

  • Bacteria or fungi

• Use radiographs to check for:

  • Sinus disease (head X-rays)

  • Lung issues (requires high-powered machine)

• Use ultrasound to detect:

  • Fluid in the chest

  • Surface lung changes (comet tails, b-lines)

🧹 What Can YOU Do to Help?

If airway inflammation is suspected, consider these management steps:

1. Wet down dusty arenas before use

2. Improve barn ventilation

3. Wet or steam hay before feeding

4. Avoid round bales

5. Use low-dust bedding (pellets, shredded paper)

6. Maximize time on pasture

7. Follow your vet’s guidance on nebulization, bronchodilators, or corticosteroids

🌿 Natural Support Options

In addition to vet care, natural supplements may help with:

• Reducing inflammation

• Opening airways

• Thinning mucus

• Boosting immune response

Helpful Ingredients:

• Mullein

• Turmeric

• Malabar Nut (Vasaka)

• Elecampane

• Peppermint

• Yarrow

• Omega-3s (e.g., flaxseed)

These can support long-term lung function and respiratory health when used appropriately.

Final Note

⚠️ This information is not a substitute for veterinary care.Coughing may be a sign of a serious issue, and it’s important to get an accurate diagnosis from your vet.

Supplements and environmental changes can help support recovery and prevent recurrence — but partnering with your vet is key.

Thanks for reading!

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