Coughing

[dannyboy]

I have noticed over the last few days that Murphy has started to cough.

I have been trying to watch this closely to see if it only happens i.e. in the stable, at exercise etc etc but it doesn't seem to happen at any specific time / place.

He doesn't seem unwell, he's not constantly coughing and it hasn't effected his eating during the day. I have noticed that he doesn't eat as much hay throughout the night while stabled but I've put it down to the tasty grass during the day being enough. I've done a little research on the internet but there seems to be more of a pattern to when it happens

Any idea's to what it could be?

[scattymare]

Could be down to any number of things DB. Dust, virus, unfortunately the list is endless. If it persistent or if any discharge from his nose I would get the vet to take a look.

[solomon]

Just had vet out for Pete's respiratory problem. Dust or pollen is biggest culprit with hay spores following in as a close third. Hope he settles soon.

[duckles]

Could it be something like Pete's - allergic to hay? Poor Murphy - hope he is better soon

[brigadier]

Worms also cause a cough so check he is up to date, First thing I do when they cough is check the hay, soak it for a few feeds to see if that is the culprit. He may have sloppy poo as a result but at least you know if that is it.

[dannyboy]

I'm not sure it could be linked to hay He's been on the same hay for approx 9 months and hasn't displayed any signs before. I was thinking that it could be the pollen perhaps as we are surrounded with rape-seed crops.

Brig, a farmer suggested it might be worms - he mentioned fluke (sp) worms. He had his last wormer approx 3 months ago now so is due some now anyway - I'll get that tomorrow.

Sol, I'm glad Pete's is nothing serious - speedy recovery Pete.

[racaille]

I was going to suggest worms too....