Pollen from grasses and trees, dust, mould spores or insect bites can trigger an excessive response from the immune system, leading to inflammation of the skin and airways. The signs of seasonal allergy are most often itching and rubbing against objects, hives, watery eyes, a watery nasal discharge and, in the case of respiratory allergy, coughing or shortness of breath. Conditions with an allergic basis include RAO (Recurrent Airway Obstruction), described as equine asthma, IAD (Inflammatory Airway Disease), and also hypersensitivity to insect bites, commonly known as lipcówką. The common thread in these problems is chronic inflammation, which reduces the horse’s comfort and can affect its fitness.
The basis of managing allergy is to limit contact with the allergen and to provide appropriate veterinary treatment, but more and more attention is also being paid to feeding. Diet does not replace treatment, but it can effectively support the horse’s body in dealing with inflammation and help to regulate the immune response. Omega-3 fatty acids are particularly important here, as they have an anti-inflammatory effect. In the horse’s diet they can come from cold-pressed linseed oil, linseed, or high-quality compound feeds that contain oilseeds. Including these ingredients in the ration regularly can support the health of the skin and the respiratory system.
The condition of the digestive tract matters too. The link between the gut microflora and the function of the immune system is emphasised more and more often. A disturbed microbial balance in the gut can intensify allergic reactions, so horses prone to allergy should receive enough good-quality structural fibre, and prebiotic or probiotic additives, or feed yeast, are worth considering.
It is also important to limit any excess of simple sugars and starch in the diet. Rations based on a large amount of cereal can encourage inflammation and disturbed fermentation in the large intestine. For allergic horses it is worth choosing low-starch mixes, keeping an eye on hay quality and avoiding feeds high in readily fermentable carbohydrates. A balanced diet that is stable in energy helps to limit extra factors that burden the body when signs are at their strongest.
When pollen is high, or insects are particularly active, suitably chosen herbal mixes can also help. Nettle, chamomile, cistus or black cumin have properties that support immunity and an anti-inflammatory effect. The environment remains just as important: good-quality hay, proper ventilation of the stable, regular removal of dust, and the use of fly rugs where the allergy is to insects.
To sum up, seasonal allergies in horses are a problem with many causes, and they call for a comprehensive approach. Managing the environment properly, working with a veterinary surgeon and a well-balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory ingredients that support the gut microflora can significantly improve your horse’s comfort in this difficult period!