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(COPD) Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Disclaimer
The Information contained below has been researched through numerous resources.
We post only information that has consensus and as such is only general in nature.
We strongly suggest you perform more in depth independent research if you have any concerns regarding your horses health.
Consult with your veterinarian before you start any treatments.
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Names
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Heaves in Horses, COPD, Recurrent Airway Obstruction, chronic bronchitis, broken wind, emphysema, Horse Cough
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| Preface |
There has been no single cause ever defined for Copd / Heaves.
Similar to asthma in humans certain allergines are thought to trigger an allergic episode.
More common in mature horses
Common in colder climates where horses are kept stabled for extended periods Winter/Spring.
Summer outbreaks often due to pollens
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| Known Causes |
- Horses kept in Barns for extended periods.(Winter/Spring)
- Dusty feeds
- Mold spores found in hay
- Chemicals contaminants
- Pollen
- Poor quality roughage
- Dusty stalls
- Poor sanitation practices
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| Symptoms |
- Difficulty Breathing
- Broken wind
- Coughing
- A an unnatural sounding cough
- Heaving Flank
- Wheezing
- Flatulency
- Reduced energy
- Experiences fatigue quickly
- Weight loss
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Treatments
& Prevention
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- Your Vet should be consulted as this disease can become life threatening if left unchecked.
- Anti-inflammatory drugs & bronchodialators are often recomended
- Maintain clean dust inhibited enviornments
- Replace hay with feed pellets and cubes or use higher quality hay
- Replace dusty bedding material (possible solutions Shredded paper, Peat or hardwood shavings)
- Turnout the horse as much as possible (Horses effected by pollen may not benifit from turnout)
- Turnout horses when mucking stalls
- Proper ventalation in barns
- Herbal Anti-Inflamitory Supplements
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