Rhodococcus Pneumonia in Horses by a Vet – 2025 Guide to Causes, Risks & Care 🫁🐴
In this article
Rhodococcus Pneumonia in Horses by a Vet – 2025 Guide to Causes, Risks & Care 🫁🐴
By Dr Duncan Houston, BVSc
Introduction
Pneumonia is uncommon in adult horses but can be life-threatening when it occurs. Often secondary to respiratory viruses or specific stressors like long-distance transport or choke, pneumonia in horses requires early veterinary attention. In 2025, veterinarians continue to highlight prevention and targeted treatment for cases that do occur—especially those progressing to pleuropneumonia or caused by organisms like Rhodococcus equi in young horses.
Why Pneumonia Happens 🧬
- Most cases in horses are secondary to viral infections such as:
- Equine influenza
- Equine herpesvirus
- These viruses damage the upper airway, allowing bacteria to invade the lungs
Other Risk Factors 🚩
- Long-distance transport – tying horses prevents natural head lowering and mucus drainage
- Choke recovery – risk of aspiration pneumonia
- General anesthesia – reduces normal lung function
Rhodococcus Pneumonia: Rare but Serious 🦠
- Primarily a disease of foals 1–6 months old
- Caused by Rhodococcus equi – a soil-borne bacterium inhaled in dusty environments
- Can cause abscesses in the lungs and is difficult to treat once advanced
Symptoms of Equine Pneumonia ⚠️
- Coughing
- Labored or rapid breathing
- Fever
- Wheezing or abnormal lung sounds
- Lethargy and exercise intolerance
- Possible nasal discharge or chest discomfort
When It Gets Worse: Pleuropneumonia 🚨
- Occurs when infection spreads outside the lung into the chest cavity
- Symptoms include extreme pain, reluctance to move, and fluid accumulation
- Detected via thoracic ultrasound and fluid sampling
Diagnosis 🩺
- Auscultation: Detects wheezing or abnormal breath sounds
- Ultrasound: Identifies lung abscesses or fluid
- Tracheal or lung wash: For bacterial culture and sensitivity
- Bloodwork: May show inflammation or infection
Treatment Plan 💊
1. Antibiotics
- Chosen based on culture results when possible
- May require long-term use (weeks or months)
2. NSAIDs & Bronchodilators
- For inflammation and breathing support
3. Supportive Care
- Rest, hydration, and monitoring of respiratory effort
- Feeding soft feeds or supporting appetite if reduced
Prevention Tips for 2025 🛡️
- Vaccinate for influenza and herpesvirus regularly
- Allow horses to lower their heads during transport
- Take breaks every 3 hours when hauling long distances
- Manage barn dust levels—use moist bedding and good ventilation
Case Example: Travel-Induced Pneumonia
- A 5-year-old mare was shipped 10 hours with her head tied high
- Upon arrival: slight fever, dullness, and mild cough
- Vet diagnosed early pneumonia via ultrasound and tracheal wash
- Treated with antibiotics and anti-inflammatories
- Recovered fully after 4 weeks of rest and care
FAQs About Equine Pneumonia
Q: Is pneumonia contagious between horses?
A: Not usually, unless it’s viral. Bacterial pneumonia often follows a viral infection that suppresses immune defense.
Q: Can adult horses get Rhodococcus?
A: Rarely. It’s mostly a foal disease, though immune-compromised adults may be susceptible in unusual cases.
Q: How long is recovery?
A: Mild cases may resolve in 2–3 weeks; pleuropneumonia or abscesses may require 6+ weeks of care.
Conclusion
While pneumonia is uncommon in adult horses, it can be serious—especially after travel, respiratory infection, or surgery. Early vet evaluation and targeted treatment are essential. In foals, Rhodococcus equi remains a dangerous form of pneumonia requiring fast diagnosis and long-term care. In 2025, focus on vaccination, dust control, and transport planning to help prevent these potentially deadly infections.
Concerned your horse may have pneumonia or need a travel safety plan? Visit AskAVet.com or download the app 📱 to consult with Dr Duncan Houston and our respiratory care team. 🩺🐴
