Environmental conditions are routinely associated with airway health and disease. In her research, Michelle Coleman, DVM, PhD, DACVIM, identified a gut-lung axis as an integrated system with bi-directional cross-talk between the lungs and intestines. In obese horses, the microbiome is different than in a non-obese horse and increases the risk of developing equine asthma.
Approximately 60 percent of pleasure horses and up to 80 percent of racehorses have equine asthma.”
Source: EquiManagement, June 9, 2023. Link.