- What is SPARAO?<\/a><\/li>
- Recognising the Signs<\/a><\/li>
- SPARAO Management<\/a><\/li>
- Additional Respiratory Support<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nWhat is SPARAO?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
SPARAO is triggered by increased exposure to allergens commonly found in pasture
environments during spring and summer. These include pollen from grasses and trees, airborne mould spores, and dust, all of which can cause hypersensitive reactions in affected horses. This immune overreaction results in inflammation, narrowing of the airways (broncho constriction), and mucus production, compromising the horse\u2019s ability to breathe effectively.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nRecognising the Signs<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Clinical signs of SPARAO vary in severity but typically include persistent coughing (often worse during or after exercise), nasal discharge, and laboured breathing. A visible\u201cheave line\u201dmay develop along the horse\u2019s abdominal muscles due to the increased effort required to exhale. Other signs include reduced performance, exercise intolerance, and, in chronic cases, a poor coat condition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Owners may not always associate these signs with pasture exposure, making education around this seasonal variant essential. A horse that performs well in winter may suddenly begin showing signs of respiratory stress when turned out during peak pollen times. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Veterinary assessment is vital for accurate diagnosis. This often involves a clinical history, endoscopy, and diagnostic procedures such as broncho alveolar lavage (BAL),tracheal wash (TW) and blood tests. These help identify airway inflammation and exclude other potential causes. Treatment plans typically combine medical intervention with targeted management strategies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nSPARAO Management<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Management is the cornerstone of controlling SPARAO. Practical steps include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Limiting turnout during high pollen or dusty periods<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Providing dust free forage, such as soaked or steamed hay<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Avoiding straw bedding and choosing low dust alternatives<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Keeping stables ventilated and clean<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Using air purifiers or misting systems to reduce airborne allergens<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Modifying exercise regimes to avoid peak allergen times<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
While these steps help reduce allergen exposure, they can be difficult to implement consistently, particularly during dry, high risk periods.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nAdditional Respiratory Support<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Alongside the above recommendations and with veterinary assistance, it can also be beneficial to support your horse’s health during the summer with nutritional solutions. NAF’s range of supplements can help horses breathe easier and perform at their best, even during the most challenging seasons.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Consider adding NAF Easy Breathing in either a liquid<\/a> or powder<\/a> form, to your horse’s daily feed, a herbal support for the lungs. Or for more intense respiratory relief, NAF 5 Star Respirator Boost<\/a> can be fed to help support both the lungs and immune system.<\/p>\n\n\n
- Recognising the Signs<\/a><\/li>
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