Headshaking and coughing in horses

Coughing and a runny nose can have multiple causes such as a cold or dust. Headshaking can also result from problems with the cervical vertebrae or teeth. However, if the symptoms occur in the spring and summer and disappear after the pollen season, when it rains, or when the horse is in the stable, then a pollen allergy is likely the culprit.

Does my horse have hay fever or a pollen allergy?

If you are not sure whether your horse has hay fever or a pollen allergy, you can determine this by keeping track of when your horse shows symptoms.

Possible symptoms of a pollen allergy include:

• runny nose,
• coughing,
• itching of the nose,
• headshaking,
• respiratory problems and sinusitis.

Keep a record of your horse's symptoms in a logbook, noting the weather conditions and whether the horse was in the stable, pasture, or paddock when the symptoms occurred. This will give you a better idea of the circumstances. Horses can be allergic to pollen from various plants and trees that bloom at different times. It is often a combination. You can have this tested by a veterinarian, using a skin test or mucus test. A pollen allergy can develop at any age.

Measures against pollen allergy

It is important to ensure an adequate supply of fresh air and provide pasture time at favorable times (when it rains, when there is no wind, or at night, for example). Also, ensure that the stable is not dusty, for instance, by using flax or wood shavings as bedding, proper ventilation, and avoiding drafts. If your horse shakes its head while riding, using a nose net (pollen net) can help. This net is also allowed in KNHS competitions.

Stimulation of mucus production in the trachea

You can also provide a supplement that stimulates mucus production in the respiratory tract, including the trachea. You might think that a horse with a pollen allergy already has enough mucus production, but that's not the whole story. The mucus serves as a protective layer and, together with the cilia in the trachea and lungs, acts as a 'natural filter' against intruders like dust and pollen. This filter works better when the mucus layer is healthy and sufficiently thick. This way, pollen are less likely to enter the bloodstream, where they trigger the allergic reaction. Due to regulations, we are unable to mention the name of the product in this article. Contact for more information. It is based on the following herbs: Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus), Coneflower (Echinacea), White willow, and Schisandra (Schisandra chinensis).

Don't forget about the ECS system

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a complex signaling network involved in many essential physiological processes. The ECS includes cannabinoid receptors, endocannabinoid ligands, and the enzymes associated with their synthesis and breakdown. Did you know that these phytocannabinoids are found in cloves? Changes in the ECS are associated with various diseases, including inflammation and immune-related conditions like allergies.

Several studies have convincingly shown that cannabinoids play a role in allergies. Cannabinoids have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties in the airways and skin of allergic horses. Therefore, we always recommend feeding cannabinoids from cloves to your horse when it has a pollen allergy.

Elisha's experience with HETIE horse®

Since moving to the Veluwe, my horse suffered from hay fever. She shook her head a lot, rubbed her nose against everything, and became short of breath. I consulted the vet, who prescribed a nasal spray. It was effective, but administering it was a hassle. I read online that boosting immunity and providing soothing respiratory treatments are most effective for hay fever. That's when I came across HETIE horse® and decided to try it out. Administration is very easy over the feed, and after a week, I gradually noticed a difference. She rubbed her nose much less and was less snotty. She was calm again in the pasture and stable, and I could ride comfortably again. I will start using it again this year in time.