Horse heaves treatment focuses on reducing airway inflammation and making breathing easier. The core approach includes dust-free bedding, soaked hay, and strong ventilation to limit irritants. Veterinarians often use bronchodilators and corticosteroids to open the airways and control symptoms. Consistent environmental management is the most effective way to keep flare-ups under control.
Heaves, also called equine asthma or Recurrent Airway Obstruction (RAO), affects about 12% of adult horses. It makes breathing hard because the airways in a horse's lungs get swollen and tight. The good news? With the right treatment plan, your horse can feel much better. This article covers all the ways to treat heaves, from simple changes you can make today to advanced medical treatments, including natural salt therapy solutions.
Knowing the signs of heaves helps you catch it early. The sooner you start treatment, the better your horse will feel.
The most common sign is a cough that won't go away. Your horse might cough when eating, exercising, or just standing around. Other signs include flared nostrils, heavy breathing, and a runny nose with clear or white discharge.
As heaves gets worse, you might see a "heave line" on your horse's belly. This is a ridge along the bottom of the ribs. It happens because your horse's belly muscles work extra hard to push air out of the lungs.
Watch for these early signs before heaves gets bad:
Horses with mild heaves might only show symptoms after exercise. But as the condition gets worse, they struggle to breathe even when standing still. Some horses also lose weight because breathing takes so much energy.
Understanding what causes heaves helps you prevent flare-ups and treat the condition better.
Heaves happens when horses breathe in things that irritate their lungs. The main culprits are dust, mold, and pollen. These allergens are often found in:
Some horses get heaves from barn dust and mold. Others react to grass pollen in summer pastures. Your horse might be sensitive to one or both types of allergens.
Not all horses get heaves, even when living in dusty barns. Some horses are born more sensitive to allergens. If a horse's parents had heaves, there's a higher chance their foals will develop it too. About 44% of horses whose parents both had heaves will also get the condition.
Most horses develop heaves between ages 9 and 12. Both male and female horses get it equally. The condition usually gets worse in winter and spring for barn-associated heaves, while summer pasture heaves flares up in hot, humid weather.
When a sensitive horse breathes in allergens, the body's immune system overreacts. The airways get inflamed and swollen. Thick mucus builds up. The muscles around the airways tighten, making it hard for air to flow. This is very similar to asthma in people.
Over time, repeated flare-ups can cause permanent lung damage. That's why starting treatment early matters so much.
The best treatment for heaves combines environmental management with medical care when needed. Let's look at all your options.
Changing your horse's environment is the single most important thing you can do. Even the best medications won't work if your horse keeps breathing in allergens.
Turn Your Horse Out Keeping your horse outside as much as possible is often the best solution. Fresh air and natural ventilation reduce exposure to dust and mold. Many horses with heaves improve dramatically within days of moving to full-time pasture.
If your horse lives outside, remove round bale hay. Round bales have very high levels of dust, mold, and endotoxins. They're a common reason why pasture-kept horses still have breathing problems.
Improve Barn Ventilation If your horse must be stalled, maximize airflow. Open windows and doors. Use fans to keep air moving. Never house a horse with heaves in the same building as an indoor arena where dust flies around.
Change Bedding Materials Replace straw bedding with low-dust options like wood shavings, shredded paper, or rubber mats. Straw is very dusty and moldy. Clean stalls while your horse is outside so they don't breathe in dust clouds.
Since hay is often the biggest source of allergens, managing it carefully makes a huge difference.
Soaking Hay Soak hay in water for 10-30 minutes before feeding. This dampens dust and mold spores so your horse doesn't inhale them. Use clean water and feed the hay right after soaking. Don't let soaked hay sit around, as it can grow bacteria.
Steaming Hay Steaming hay works better than soaking for horses with severe heaves. Hay steamers heat hay to kill mold and allergens without making it soggy. Studies show horses fed steamed hay have fewer respiratory symptoms and may need less medication.
Alternative Feeds Consider switching to:
Always buy the cleanest hay possible. Smell it before feeding. Good hay smells sweet, not musty or moldy. Dusty hay creates clouds when you shake it.
Feeding Position Matters Feed your horse from elevated hay nets or racks. When horses eat off the ground, they breathe in more dust. Feeding higher up keeps their airways clearer.
When environmental changes aren't enough, medications help control inflammation and open airways.
These medications relax the muscles around airways, making breathing easier. They work quickly but don't reduce inflammation.
Clenbuterol is a common oral bronchodilator given twice daily. It helps horses breathe better within hours. Your vet will determine the right dose for your horse's weight.
Albuterol can be given through an inhaler or nebulizer. It works fast, improving lung function by 70% within 5 minutes. The effects last 1-3 hours, so it's good for quick relief during flare-ups.
Corticosteroids reduce inflammation in the lungs. They're very effective but have some risks with long-term use.
Oral Steroids Dexamethasone or prednisolone tablets are affordable and easy to give. They cost less than $50 per month and work well for most horses. The downside? Long-term use can cause laminitis, especially in overweight horses or those with metabolic issues.
Inhaled Steroids Inhaled corticosteroids target the lungs directly with lower doses. This reduces side effects. Options include fluticasone, beclomethasone, and ciclesonide. These are given through special masks that fit over your horse's muzzle.
Inhaled steroids cost more upfront (around $1,000 for equipment) but have fewer risks. They're safer for long-term use than oral steroids.
Nebulizers turn liquid medication into a fine mist your horse inhales. The medicine goes straight to the lungs where it's needed. You can nebulize steroids, bronchodilators, or other treatments.
A nebulizer system costs about $1,000 initially, plus $20-40 monthly for medications. Some vets offer a newer treatment called alpha 2 macroglobulin, made from your horse's own blood, given through a nebulizer.
Apoquel is a newer oral medication originally made for dogs. Some vets use it for horses with heaves. It doesn't have the same laminitis risk as steroids, but it doesn't work for every horse.
Antibiotics are only needed if your horse develops a bacterial infection along with heaves. Your vet will determine if antibiotics are necessary based on exam findings and lab tests.
Many horse owners want natural options to support their horse's breathing. While these shouldn't replace environmental management or necessary medications, they can help significantly when used correctly with professional-grade equipment.
Research shows omega-3s reduce inflammation in horses with heaves. Studies found that horses given DHA (a type of omega-3) for 2 months had 60% less coughing and better lung function.
Feed 1,250-4,500 mg of DHA daily for a 500 kg horse. Fish oil works better than flax oil because it provides DHA and EPA directly. Flax contains ALA, which must be converted to DHA a process horses don't do efficiently.
Several herbs may help horses with respiratory issues:
Herbal Blends Products containing garlic, thyme, licorice, and white horehound have shown promise in studies. One research trial found horses taking an herbal blend had significantly lower respiratory rates after one week.
Quercetin with Bromelain This combination acts like natural Benadryl, reducing allergic reactions. Some horse owners report good results with quercetin for managing heaves symptoms.
Support your horse's immune system with proper nutrition. Key nutrients for respiratory health include:
Choose supplements with organic forms of minerals for better absorption. Selenium should come from selenized yeast, which is safe and effective.
Ready to invest in proven respiratory support for your horses? Contact our equine specialists for equipment recommendations and pricing.
Salt therapy, also called halotherapy, is rapidly becoming the natural treatment of choice for horse heaves at leading training facilities and veterinary centers worldwide. Unlike DIY approaches or makeshift solutions, professional-grade equine salt therapy uses certified equipment to deliver pharmaceutical-grade salt particles at precise sizes for maximum respiratory benefit.
How Professional Salt Therapy Works
A certified halogenerator disperses microscopic salt particles (1-5 microns) into the air. When horses inhale these tiny particles, the salt:
The key to effective salt therapy is particle size consistency. Only professional-grade halogenerators can produce and maintain the precise particle sizes needed for deep lung penetration. This is why makeshift salt lamps or DIY solutions simply don't work—they can't create particles small enough to reach the lower airways where heaves causes the most damage.
Why Equipment Quality Matters
When investing in equine salt therapy, the quality of your halogenerator makes all the difference. Professional equipment like those from Salt Chamber Inc. ensures:
Many training facilities and equine therapy centers report excellent results with professional salt therapy. Horses show improvement in breathing, reduced coughing, and better performance. The treatment is completely drug-free, has no side effects, and complements traditional veterinary care perfectly.
Professional Installation vs. DIY Approaches
Some horse owners consider DIY salt therapy setups to save money. However, this approach rarely delivers results and can waste time and resources. Here's why professional installation matters:
Professional systems provide controlled, consistent treatment sessions with pharmaceutical-grade salt at therapeutic concentrations. DIY setups using salt lamps or household humidifiers can't achieve the particle sizes or concentrations needed for respiratory benefit. They also lack safety certifications and may introduce moisture or contaminants into your facility.
When you invest in certified equipment from an established provider like Salt Chamber, you get turnkey installation, training, ongoing support, and equipment designed specifically for equine facilities. Your horses get safe, effective therapy that produces real results.
Explore our complete equine salt therapy equipment lineup trusted by top trainers and veterinary professionals worldwide.
Beyond specific supplements and treatments, focus on:
The most successful heaves treatment programs combine multiple approaches. Environmental management provides the foundation. Medical treatments address acute symptoms when needed. And natural therapies like professional salt therapy offer ongoing respiratory support without drug side effects.
Layer 1: Environmental Control Start with clean air, quality hay, good ventilation, and low-dust bedding. This is non-negotiable for every horse with heaves.
Layer 2: Medical Management Work with your vet to determine if your horse needs bronchodilators, steroids, or other medications. Use these strategically during flare-ups or as maintenance therapy.
Layer 3: Natural Support Add omega-3s, targeted supplements, and professional salt therapy to support respiratory health naturally. These therapies work alongside medical treatments to improve outcomes.
Layer 4: Lifestyle Adjustments Modify exercise intensity, feeding practices, and daily routines to minimize respiratory stress.
This comprehensive approach gives your horse the best chance at comfortable, easy breathing long-term.
Want to add professional salt therapy to your equine facility? Get a free consultation and custom quote from our equine therapy specialists.
Good news horses with heaves can live normal lifespans with proper management. Most horses diagnosed early and treated well can work, compete, and enjoy life for many years.
Mild Heaves Horses with mild heaves that get treated early often recover completely. With environmental changes and supportive therapies like salt therapy, many return to full work without medications. Their quality of life stays excellent.
Moderate Heaves Horses with moderate symptoms usually do well with a combination of environmental management and occasional medications. They might need antihistamines or short courses of steroids during pollen season or bad weather. Most can still be ridden, though some aren't up for intense competition. Professional salt therapy helps these horses maintain better baseline respiratory function.
Severe Heaves Horses with severe, long-term heaves need constant management. They typically require daily medications and strict environmental control. Exercise might be limited, but many can enjoy light work and pasture time. Adding drug-free therapies like salt therapy can sometimes reduce medication needs over time. These horses have a higher risk of complications like infections or laminitis from medications.
How well a horse does with heaves depends on:
Researchers have found that horses kept on clean pasture with proper management often need little to no medication. Their lung function can return almost to normal. This shows how powerful environmental control really is. When combined with natural respiratory support from professional salt therapy, many horses achieve even better outcomes.
Living with heaves doesn't mean poor quality of life. Many horses with heaves are happy, comfortable, and active. Focus on:
Work with your vet to adjust the treatment plan as needed. What works in summer might need tweaking in winter. Stay flexible and attentive to your horse's needs.
Looking to enhance your equine therapy offerings? View our salt booth models perfect for individual horse treatments.
Every horse is different, so treatment plans need to be customized. Here's how to create the best plan for your horse.
Start with a complete veterinary exam. Your vet might do:
These tests help confirm heaves and rule out other respiratory problems.
Keep a journal to track when symptoms get worse. Note:
Patterns in your notes will reveal what triggers your horse's heaves.
Before starting medications, clean up your horse's environment. This might mean:
Give changes 2-4 weeks to work. Many horses improve significantly with environment changes alone.
Once environmental factors are controlled, consider adding professional salt therapy to your horse's routine. This drug-free approach provides ongoing respiratory support without medication side effects. Many equine facilities report that horses receiving regular salt therapy sessions need fewer medications and maintain better respiratory function year-round.
Professional equipment ensures your horses receive therapeutic benefits safely and consistently. Unlike unproven DIY methods, certified halogenerators deliver precise salt concentrations that actually reach the lower airways where treatment is needed most.
Ready to add salt therapy to your horse's treatment plan? Contact us to discuss equipment options for your facility.
If symptoms persist after environmental changes and natural therapies, discuss medication options with your vet. Consider:
Your vet will help you choose between oral medications, inhalers, or nebulizers based on your situation. Remember that medications work best when combined with environmental control and supportive natural therapies.
Check your horse's breathing rate and effort daily. Notice if coughing increases or decreases. Watch for the heave line getting better or worse. Keep your vet updated on progress.
Treatment plans often need adjusting. Medications might be increased during bad pollen seasons or decreased when symptoms improve. Stay in close contact with your vet, especially during the first few months.
Once you have heaves under control, keep it that way with these prevention tips.
Maintain Clean Air Quality Even when your horse feels great, continue environmental management. Don't get complacent. Going back to dusty hay or poor ventilation will cause symptoms to return quickly.
Professional salt therapy provides excellent preventive maintenance. Regular sessions help keep airways clear and reduce the likelihood of flare-ups, even during high-pollen seasons or weather changes. Many training facilities schedule salt therapy sessions weekly or bi-weekly as preventive care.
Seasonal Adjustments Horses with barn-associated heaves might need different management in winter than summer. Those with pasture-associated heaves need extra care during pollen season. Plan ahead for seasonal changes.
Schedule check-ups every 6-12 months, even if your horse seems fine. Your vet can catch early signs of worsening before symptoms become obvious. Regular monitoring helps you stay ahead of problems.
Don't push horses with heaves too hard. Moderate exercise is usually fine and even helpful. But intense work during flare-ups makes breathing problems worse. Know your horse's limits and respect them.
Warm up slowly. Cool down gradually. Never work your horse hard when they're coughing or breathing heavily at rest.
Have a plan for sudden flare-ups. Keep emergency medications on hand if your vet recommends them. Know the signs that mean you need to call the vet right away. Being prepared helps you act quickly when problems arise.
Learning from others' mistakes saves you time and stress. Avoid these common errors in treating heaves.
When horses feel better, owners sometimes stop environmental management or medications. This is a mistake. Heaves is a chronic condition that needs ongoing management. Stopping too soon causes symptoms to return.
Medications help, but they're not enough by themselves. Studies prove that drugs without environmental changes don't improve heaves long-term. Always prioritize cleaning up your horse's environment and adding supportive natural therapies.
Some horse owners try makeshift salt therapy setups using salt lamps, Himalayan salt blocks, or household equipment. These approaches don't work because they can't produce the microscopic particles (1-5 microns) needed to reach deep into the lungs. The particle sizes from these DIY methods are far too large to provide therapeutic benefit.
If you want to use salt therapy effectively, invest in professional-grade equipment designed specifically for equine respiratory therapy. The upfront investment in certified equipment pays off through better results, happier horses, and fewer medication costs long-term.
Don't wait until heaves is severe before taking action. Early treatment prevents permanent lung damage. Even occasional coughing deserves attention.
Buying cheap hay saves money in the short term but costs more later. Poor quality hay is the top trigger for heaves. Invest in clean, properly stored hay. Check every batch for dust and mold before feeding.
Heaves requires consistent care. You can't be strict about environmental management one week and careless the next. Consistency is key to keeping symptoms controlled.
Interested in providing consistent, professional respiratory care? See our complete range of equine salt therapy solutions and find the right fit for your facility.
Your vet is your partner in managing heaves. Make the most of this relationship.
Come to appointments prepared with questions like:
If your horse isn't improving after 4-6 weeks of treatment, or if you're concerned about the treatment plan, seeking a second opinion is reasonable. Sometimes a fresh perspective helps. Veterinary specialists in internal medicine or respiratory diseases can offer advanced diagnostics and treatments.
Once you and your vet decide on a plan, follow it carefully. Give each treatment enough time to work. Don't keep switching approaches without giving them a fair chance. But do speak up if something isn't working or causes problems.
Managing heaves becomes part of your routine. Here's how to make it work long-term.
Build heaves management into your daily schedule:
These habits become second nature over time.
Talk to your barn manager if you board your horse. Explain what your horse needs:
Most barns are willing to accommodate medical needs if you communicate clearly. If you manage a training facility or boarding barn, consider adding professional salt therapy to your offerings. It differentiates your facility and provides real value to clients with horses facing respiratory challenges.
Want to add salt therapy to your equine facility's services? Talk to a specialist about installation and pricing for professional equipment.
Horses with well-managed heaves can often compete. Bring your own hay and bedding to shows. Scout out stabling locations ahead of time. Choose well-ventilated stalls far from indoor arenas if possible.
Pack emergency medications. Have your vet's contact information handy. With planning, traveling with a heaves horse is totally doable.
Horse heaves is a serious condition, but it's also very manageable with the right approach and professional-grade solutions. The key is understanding that treatment isn't about one magic solution it's about a complete approach combining environmental management, medical care when needed, and proven natural therapies.
Remember these main points:
Start with simple changes today. Move your horse outside more. Improve hay quality. Open barn windows. These small steps make big differences. Then work with professionals your veterinarian for medical care and certified equipment providers for natural therapies like salt therapy to develop a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your horse's needs.
With dedication and professional-grade solutions, you can help your horse breathe easy and enjoy life to the fullest. Don't let heaves hold your horse back take action now to improve their respiratory health and quality of life.
Ready to invest in proven respiratory support for your horses? Contact Salt Chamber today to discuss professional equine salt therapy equipment for your facility. Our team provides complete turnkey installation, training, and ongoing support to ensure your horses receive the best possible care.
For more information about how salt therapy supports respiratory health, explore our resources on halotherapy for horses and discover why leading training facilities and veterinary centers trust Salt Chamber for their equine respiratory therapy needs.
Leo Tonkin, with a decade of deep expertise in salt therapy, initiated SALT Chamber, a leading entity in the domain of salt therapy products and decor. As the inaugural Chairman of the Salt Therapy Association and Chair of the Respiratory Wellness Initiative from the Global Wellness Institute, he has played a pivotal role in broadening the accessibility and recognition of salt therapy globally. His commitment to developing advanced technology and educating the public on the benefits of salt therapy has solidified his position as a key figure in the industry, enhancing its credibility and trustworthiness.
