Aspergillus is a common but often overlooked fungal threat in horse stables. Found in hay, bedding, dust, and damp environments, its microscopic spores can cause respiratory irritation and, in severe cases, serious infections. Understanding what Aspergillus is, how it affects horses, and the steps you can take to prevent it is essential for every horse owner.
What is Aspergillus?
Aspergillus is a type of fungus that thrives in warm, damp environments. While there are many species of Aspergillus, Aspergillus fumigatus is the one most commonly affecting horses. The spores are tiny and airborne, settling on feed, walls, bedding, and other surfaces in the stable.
When horses inhale these spores, they can experience a range of health issues, from mild respiratory irritation to more serious conditions like aspergillosis, a fungal infection of the lungs or sinuses. In rare and severe cases, horses may develop guttural pouch mycosis, which can be life-threatening if left untreated.
Signs of Aspergillus in Horses
Because the spores are microscopic, they’re invisible to the eye, but the effects can be noticeable. Watch out for:
- Coughing or breathing irritation
- Allergy-like symptoms, such as nasal discharge or sneezing
- Sinus or lung infections (aspergillosis)
- Severe cases: guttural pouch mycosis
Horses kept in damp, dusty, or poorly ventilated stables are most at risk. If you are concerned about your horse, contact your vet.
How to Stop the Signs and Support Your Horse
Help prevent the spread of Aspergillus by following these tips:
- Improve stable hygiene: Remove wet bedding daily, clean walls and floors, and ensure stable surfaces are dry fully.
- Disinfect effectively: Use a product scientifically proven to kill Aspergillus spores, like Equine Bio Genie, which is safe for horses and the environment.
- Provide clean feed and water: Ensure hay and feed are dry, stored off the ground, and free from mould.
- Increase ventilation: Good airflow reduces dust and airborne spores, supporting healthy respiratory systems.
Why Choose Equine Bio Genie
Equine Bio Genie is a no-rinse, eco-friendly disinfectant specifically designed for equine environments. Its silver-stabilised hydrogen peroxide formula destroys fungal spores like Aspergillus, bacteria, and viruses while remaining safe for horses, humans, and the environment. Regular use helps prevent the spread of spores, supports cleaner stables, and reduces the risk of respiratory issues.
Take Action Today
Protecting your horses from Aspergillus starts with stable hygiene, good ventilation, and effective disinfection. Don’t wait for symptoms to appear; act now to create a safe, healthy environment for your horses.
Find out more about our products on our website or get in touch for further advice and support.
Bespoke Equine Testing
We have gone to the very well respected equine laboratory of the Irish Equine Centre to have additional efficacy testing carried out.
We have commissioned testing done to unusually low contact times across various dilution rates. These tests were carried out using an equine serum as an interfering agent under clean and dirty conditions