Omega-3 Fatty Acids in the Management of Equine Asthma

By: Dr Rosie Alcorn BVSc PG Cert VPS Cert AVP MRCVS

Equine asthma syndrome is a common respiratory condition in horses, characterised by chronic respiratory inflammation and obstruction, which can range from mild to severe. Previously known as heaves or recurrent airway obstruction (RAO), equine asthma presents with symptoms such as increased respiratory effort at rest, coughing, nasal discharge, and decreased performance. This condition significantly impacts the health and performance of affected horses and requires ongoing management with guidance from a veterinary surgeon. Recent research highlights the potential role of omega-3 fatty acids in managing equine asthma, offering an additional tool to help reduce symptoms and improve respiratory function (Monki, 2024).

Understanding Equine Asthma

Equine asthma is comparable to human asthma, resulting from hypersensitivity to inhaled environmental allergens like dust, mould spores, and pollen. These allergens trigger an immune response, leading to airway inflammation, bronchoconstriction, and mucus production. Symptoms of equine asthma can vary from mild to severe and are often worsened by poor air quality, inadequate ventilation, and exposure to irritants (Franklin and Brazil, 2019).

The Role of Omega-3 Fatty Acids in Managing Equine Asthma

Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), are essential polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) renowned for their anti-inflammatory properties. Found abundantly in fish oil and marine algae, omega-3s compete with omega-6 fatty acids, which are pro-inflammatory, for incorporation into cell membranes. By increasing the omega-3 to omega-6 ratio, omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce the production of pro-inflammatory mediators, potentially leading to decreased airway inflammation in horses (Hawley and Benson, 2020).

How Omega-3 Fatty Acids Work

Omega-3 fatty acids help to modulate inflammation through multiple mechanisms. When incorporated into cell membranes, omega-3s alter the membrane’s lipid composition, affecting cell signalling pathways and decreasing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Additionally, omega-3 fatty acids act as precursors to less-inflammatory eicosanoids, compared to those derived from omega-6 fatty acids. This shift may reduce bronchoconstriction and mucus production, improving respiratory function in horses with asthma.

Clinical Evidence of Omega-3 Benefits in Equine Asthma

Studies indicate promising outcomes for omega-3 supplementation in managing equine asthma. In one controlled trial, horses supplemented with omega-3-rich fish oil showed significant improvements in respiratory function and a reduction in clinical symptoms compared to those not receiving supplementation (Norgradi et al., 2015). Another study found that omega-3 supplementation decreased airway neutrophilia, a marker of inflammation, in asthmatic horses (Hawley and Benson, 2020). Recent research by Purdue University also demonstrated a decrease in neutrophil volumes in lower airway BALs in horses given omega-3 supplements compared to those without.

Practical Considerations for Adding Omega-3 to the Equine Diet

Incorporating omega-3 fatty acids into the diets of horses with asthma is relatively simple. Adding an omega-3-rich oils effective, and at Keyflow, we offerKey-3 Oil, which combines salmon oil with cold-pressed linseed and rapeseed oil to deliver the right amount of high quality Omega-3 to a horses diet.

Conclusion

Effective management of equine asthma can greatly reduce symptoms and enhance the quality of life for affected horses. Omega-3 fatty acids are a valuable addition to equine asthma management strategies due to their anti-inflammatory properties, which help minimise symptoms and support respiratory health.

It’s important to remember that omega-3 supplementation is just one of several management tools for equine asthma. For best results, discuss all available options with your veterinary surgeon to develop a comprehensive management plan for your horse’s respiratory health.