Equine allergy treatment

Environmental triggers commonly cause horse allergies.

Environmental triggers such as mold, dust and grass proteins are the most common causes of equine allergies. However, sometimes horses develop allergies with little or no warning. At the initial onset of allergies, have horses checked by a veterinarian to help determine the cause, and develop a course of treatments. Seeing a veterinarian at the first signs of an allergic reaction can also help prevent the development of the life-threatening condition known as heaves.

Signs and Symptoms

Signs of an allergy problem include lethargic behaviors, tearing eyes, coughing, and lumps on the chest and shoulders.

Environmental Triggers

Make sure stables are cleaned regularly.

After determining the source of a horse's allergy, all environmental triggers should be removed. Make sure the horse's stable is cleaned regularly to help cut down on dust and mold, which commonly cause allergies.

Bedding

Bedding often contributes to an allergic reaction, especially those that always flare up in the stable. Replace bedding with hypoallergenic products like rubber mats or shredded paper.

Food Allergies

Hay may be a contributing factor to horse allergies.

Horses with hay in their diets may experience food allergies because hay is stored in large bales, which invites organisms to live in the hay. Wash all hay before feeding horses to help remove anything living on it. If this doesn't solve the problem, replace hay with a food pellet.

Severe Allergies

If a horse develops labored breathing or wheezing, contact a veterinarian immediately. Severe cases need to be treated with corticosteroid or hyposensitization shots administered by the veterinarian.

References

• Horses and Horse Info