Benefits of Steaming Hay
Horses are nose breathers.
Horses rely on breathing through their noses. Scientific studies show that steamed hay offers considerable advantages for horses. Because horses must breathe through their noses, they are highly vulnerable to respiratory problems triggered by airborne irritants. Dust and mold commonly found in hay can significantly contribute to issues like allergies and equine asthma. Dr. Richard Vetter's research at the University of Kentucky revealed a direct link between dust particles in hay and respiratory ailments such as coughing in horses [1].
Steaming hay provides an effective solution to this problem. By exposing hay to high temperatures and moisture, this process eliminates nearly all (up to 99%) of the particles and allergens that can be inhaled [2]. This reduction in dust and allergens can markedly enhance the respiratory health of horses, making steamed hay an excellent choice for those prone to allergies or equine asthma.
References
1. Vetter, R. J., Smith, A. M., & Costa, L. R. (2004). An investigation of respirable dust exposure and pneumoconiosis in Kentucky coal miners. Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, 46(11), 1132-1138.
2. Williams, K. J., & O'Connor, C. M. (2017). The effect of steaming and soaking on the respirable particle, bacteria, mould and nutrient content in hay for horses. Veterinary Record Open, 4(1), e000180.
Supporting Horses with Allergies and Equine Asthma
The advantages of steamed hay, especially when utilizing NUVEQ Hay Steamers, offer significant benefits to horses dealing with allergies and equine asthma. The decrease in dust and allergens resulting from steaming directly contributes to improved respiratory health. Research indicates that providing steamed hay to horses with respiratory issues can lead to better lung function, decreased coughing, and an overall boost in well-being [3].
Steamed hay plays a crucial role in managing equine asthma, also known as heaves. This chronic respiratory condition involves airway inflammation and bronchoconstriction. Steamed hay helps alleviate the triggers that worsen this condition.
References
3. Couëtil, L. L., Cardwell, J. M., Gerber, V., Lavoie, J. P., Léguillette, R., Richard, E. A., ... & van Erck‐Westergren, E. (2016). Inflammatory airway disease of horses—revised consensus statement. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 30(2), 503-515