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Why Is My Horse Coughing?

Updated: May 3


Proud Horse

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.



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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