Effects of a propriety oiled mixed hay feeding system on lung function, neutrophilic airway inflammation and oxidative stress in severe asthmatic horses.

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Hay feeding is considered the main triggering factor for airway obstruction and inflammation in severe equine asthma (SEA). Finding alternate strategies allowing hay feeding while controlling clinical signs of SEA is of importance. The Nutri-Foin Système is believed to decrease inhaled dust by incorporating soybean oil to mechanically processed hay. OBJECTIVES: We compared airflow obstruction and airway inflammation in horses with SEA fed oiled hay or alfalfa pellet regimen. STUDY DESIGN: Controlled trial in asthmatic research horses. METHODS: Twelve horses in exacerbation of SEA from a research herd were studied. Horses were fed either oiled treated hay (n = 6) or alfalfa pelleted hay (n = 6) for 3 months while being stabled. Lung function, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid cytology and serum antioxidant enzyme kinetics were sequentially evaluated. RESULTS: Pelleted hay and the hay treated with the Nutri-Foin Système similarly improved lung function, airway neutrophilia and serum antioxidant enzyme kinetics over time. MAIN LIMITATIONS: The small number of horses in each group. CONCLUSIONS: We conclude from this study that Nutri-Foin Système is an appropriate alternative to pelleted hay for the control of the airway obstruction in horses with SEA.