Coughing indoors is usually triggered by dust, mould spores or ammonia from bedding. These irritate sensitive airways and stimulate the cough reflex. Try dust-free, long-stem meadow hay, good ventilation, and gentle herbal expectorants such as KoffTonic to help clear mucus. Avoid haylage – its lactic-acid bacteria can upset the gut and worsen airway sensitivity.

Recent 2020 research confirms the gut–lung axis - the hindgut microbiome directly affects respiratory resilience. When the gut becomes inflamed or 'leaky', immune signals can trigger airway inflammation too. Re-balancing the gut first (with SiboCARE, BiomeTonic, or LeakyGutCOMBO) often brings calmer breathing and fewer flare-ups.

They can help in acute situations but may strain the adrenal system if relied on long term. Steroid inhalers mimic cortisol, the stress hormone, which can weaken natural immunity. Discuss any ongoing plan with your vet, and consider supporting airway comfort naturally with BreathePlus, PollenTonic, or KoffTonic.

A chest infection is easy to grasp - bacteria or viruses invade, multiply, and cause illness. But a pollen allergy is a very different story. It’s not an 'infection' at all, but an 'autoimmune' overreaction of the immune system. 

Equine autoimmunity is rooted in a multi-metabolic detoxification disorder called KPU. For a deeper understanding, see our KPU page, where this connection is explained in full.

Yes - despite being 'dust-free', haylage is fermented. The lactic-acid bacteria that create that fermentation can disturb the hindgut biome, which then affects immunity and airway health. Stick with clean, mature meadow hay and ensure 24/7 forage to keep the gut - and lungs - balanced.

See our Haylage page on why we should think twice before feeding it.

They’re now part of the same spectrum called Equine Asthma, ranging from mild, seasonal allergy flare-ups to chronic inflammation. The triggers - dust, spores, pollen or stress - are similar, so focus on reducing exposure, feeding clean forage, and supporting detox organs like the liver, kidneys and lymphatics.

Start with the basics: clean air, movement, and forage. Then layer in support:

• Gut balance - see  our Gut System Shop
• Mineral balance (EquiVita / VitaComplete)
• Targeted herbs - see our Respiration Shop page for BreathePlus / PollenTonic / KoffTonic

Together they help calm inflammation, strengthen immunity and keep airways clear.

If your horse shows laboured breathing, flared nostrils, persistent cough with nasal discharge, high temperature, or sudden fatigue, call your vet right away. These can indicate infection, equine asthma, or a chronic response to pasture allergens/pollens. Once stabilised, natural management can gently support recovery and long-term balance.