Copd/asthma?

[frasers84]

Good morning
Hello, I'm Sandra, recently bought Merlin and have noticed his breathing, takes in a deep breath and can look a bit like a huccup but not convinced it, he has also started coughing.

Could this be COPD/asthma ?

I've spoke with a vet who said to keep an eye on him but will be asking him to come see him.

I've had him on Winergy ventilate for 2 weeks but not much difference

Thanks Sandra

 

[ycbm]

Hi Sandra, If he is coughing every day then I think you need a vet visit for this before it becomes entrenched with permanent lung damage. He may have an infection or just a seasonal allergy but both can be treated.

Are you close to any rapeseed in flower, by any chance? There's a lot of allergy to that in horses.
.

 

[frasers84]

No.rapeseed, but he has had access to hay which may well have triggered it.
I'm trying to upload a video of his breathing as this is what is giving me more concern and have arranged a vet to come out

 

[ycbm]

It does sound like what we used to call heaves, a sort of double effort to get a breath.

Did he pass a vetting when you bought him, Sandra?
.

 

[frasers84]

I didn't have him vetted but he was vetted by the sales livery, he was fine when viewed and later when collecting him and the coughing appeared after he received hay. I am suspecting heaves but have vet coming today so should have a better diagnosis then. Thanks for your help

 

[ycbm]

OK, I hope it's just a hay allergy and you can soak it or put him on haylage. Can he live out at least for the summer, that would be best for him?

For others who may find the thread later, please don't ever rely on a vetting certificate which was paid for by the seller, especially if the seller is a dealer.
.

 

[frasers84]

Yes, I agree, shouldn't have bought him without being vetted.

However, he can live out 24/7 and I have the option to move him that would be more suitable for him too.