Heaves: Causes and Treatment

Introduction
Heaves is a kind of recurrent airway obstruction (RAO) in horses, similar to asthma in humans. It is one of the most common forms of lower respiratory disease in horses, and it can cause your horse to struggle to breathe normally. Fortunately, heaves is treatable, but it’s important to understand what is causing it so you can decide on the best treatment option for your horse.

What Causes Heaves?
Heaves is usually caused by the inhalation of particles in the air. These particles, known as allergens, come from a variety of sources including dust, pollen, and mold. Horses with heaves tend to be more sensitive to these substances than other horses. When a horse inhales an allergen, the body reacts by producing too much mucus, which can make it difficult for the horse to breathe. The symptoms of heaves can range from mild to severe, and they can include coughing, wheezing, and labored breathing.

Other Causes
In addition to allergies, heaves can also be caused by poor ventilation in barns and stables. This problem occurs when the air circulation is inadequate, which can ultimately lead to the inhalation of dust, pollen, and other particles that can cause heaves in horses. Poor ventilation can also cause the humidity levels to rise too high, making it difficult for the horse to cool off. Furthermore, the recirculated air can contain higher levels of nitrogen dioxide, carbon dioxide, and other toxic gases, which can further exacerbate the symptoms of heaves.

Treatment
When it comes to treating heaves, the primary goal is to protect the lungs from further damage. This means reducing the amount of allergens that the horse is exposed to, and ensuring adequate ventilation. If your horse is suffering from heaves, consider switching to dust-free bedding, or making sure that hay and other feed isn’t kept in the same room as the horse. You can also install a ventilation system in the barn or stable to improve air circulation and reduce humidity.

It’s also important to look into medical treatments that can help your horse manage their heaves. Corticosteroids can be used to reduce inflammation and control symptoms such as coughing and wheezing. Bronchodilators are also available, which open up the airways and make it easier for the horse to breathe. Your veterinarian may also recommend vitamin and mineral supplements to help improve your horse’s overall health.

Conclusion
Heaves is a common problem in horses, but fortunately, it is treatable. By understanding the underlying causes of heaves, you can take steps to protect your horse’s lungs and keep them healthy. Make sure that your horse’s barn or stable is well-ventilated, and consider switching to dust-free bedding if possible. If your horse is suffering from heaves, your veterinarian can help you decide on the best course of treatment.