Coughs & Flu -

Like us, horses can suffer from coughs and colds, which sometimes leave them feeling very unwell. The temperature may be raised; the nose and eyes run; there may be a cough. An infected horse will become shivery, and generally look miserable with a higher pulse and breathing rate.

Take the horse's temperature, keep them warm with rugs and bandages, make sure their stable is draught-free but well ventilated, and treat the symptons as they arise. Inhalations of Vick or Friar's Balsam in a nosebag are helpful; and hot fomentations to the throat, if this is sore or inflamed, can be beneficial.

Never work a horse that has a high temperature or that has started coughing...

If the temperature is over 38.5 degrees centigrade (101.5 degrees farenheit) or if mild signs persist for more than 24 hours, call the vet because complications can quickly take hold.

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