Breathing Easy: Managing Respiratory Health in Performance Horses

Respiratory comfort is one of the most overlooked aspects of equine performance in India. While we often focus on nutrition, joint care, and conditioning, the ability to breathe freely is what ultimately drives endurance, stamina, and focus — especially in Indian conditions where dust, humidity, and fluctuating air quality can easily irritate the respiratory system.

The Indian Stable Environment Challenge

Many horses in Indian training yards — whether for polo, racing, dressage, or showjumping — are stabled in dusty conditions, fed dry hay, or worked during high pollen or humidity days. Even mild airway irritation can result in persistent coughing, reduced oxygen intake, and decreased energy during performance.

Over time, repeated exposure to dust, mold spores, or even fine sand particles can lead to inflammation of the airways. Horses may begin showing signs such as:

• Occasional dry coughing, especially when starting work.
• Increased respiratory effort after exercise.
• Reduced willingness to extend or collect under saddle.
• Lower stamina in hot or humid weather.

While these symptoms might seem minor initially, they can progress into more serious respiratory issues if not managed early.

The Importance of Respiratory Support in Training

Optimal breathing is essential for oxygen delivery, muscle recovery, and energy conversion. A horse with restricted airways simply cannot perform at full capacity. Beyond veterinary care and environmental control, targeted respiratory support can play a vital role in helping horses maintain healthy airways.

Regular steaming or soaking of hay, improved ventilation, and turnout time all reduce dust exposure. But sometimes, especially during competition seasons or transitions in weather, an additional layer of nutritional support can help horses breathe more freely and stay more comfortable.

A Natural Boost for Clearer Airways

Horses benefit greatly from ingredients that help soothe the respiratory tract and maintain healthy mucus membranes. Essential oils such as pine, eucalyptus, rosemary, thyme, and aniseed are known for their aromatic and soothing properties — promoting clearer breathing and easing airway discomfort.

Licorice Root Extract, long valued for its natural demulcent properties, can help maintain the normal condition of the mucus membranes, supporting the horse’s ability to breathe comfortably through changes in climate or air quality.

Formulations that combine these ingredients — such as TRM’s Equivent ND — are designed precisely for this purpose. This rich syrup blends Licorice Root Extract with five essential oils to help maintain normal breathing, soothe airways, and provide what riders often describe as “extra air power.” Its aromatic formulation sticks gently within the mouth and throat, offering lasting relief and freshness.

Integrating Respiratory Care into Daily Routine

• Before Work: Offer a small measure of a respiratory support syrup before exercise, especially on dusty or humid days.
• During Recovery: Ensure hydration and electrolyte balance — these keep mucus thin and easier to clear.
• Stable Management: Maintain good airflow, reduce bedding dust, and avoid sweeping around stabled horses.

Simple, consistent attention to respiratory health not only enhances comfort but also ensures that horses perform closer to their true potential.

The Takeaway

A horse’s lungs are its engine. Supporting that system with thoughtful care, smart feeding, and targeted respiratory aids can make a measurable difference in both training and competition. Whether it’s easing mild coughing, supporting recovery after travel, or maintaining clear breathing through the season, the right approach keeps horses performing and feeling their best.

At Rising Equine, we help equestrians across India integrate effective respiratory and nutritional support strategies tailored to discipline, environment, and workload. Our consulting programs often include trusted formulations like TRM’s Equivent ND, known globally for promoting clear, natural breathing in performance horses — keeping every breath powerful, efficient, and effortless.