How can I tell if my horse has allergies or a cold?

jen is a ninja · Apr 29th 2013, 10:09am

She's a 7 year old paint and for about a week I have noticed that she has a runny nose. It is a yellowish color and she has a very slight cough. What could this be and what should I do to treat it?We live on a very dusty road. Could this have any effect?

7405 · Apr 29th 2013, 10:09am

Call a Vet

--Khayos--8734 · Apr 29th 2013, 10:09am

If her phlegm is yellowish in color it's an indication that there may be infection (virus/cold). Definitely let the vet see her, and see what he/she has to say.

8715 · Apr 29th 2013, 10:10am

You should have a vet out.Any clear discharge from the nose is "normal" (like humans) but if it's yellow or green, that is a sign of an infection.Good luck!

lil carl 3487 · Apr 29th 2013, 10:10am

I agree, I know that often allergies will cause runny eyes as well as nose, so the runny nose alone may indicate cold or infection over allergies.

2FFVC3 · Apr 29th 2013, 10:10am

If your horse has had a runny nose for a week already and has not yet been treated...call your veterinarian. A runny nose is the first sign of a cold if it is clear but coloured mucous is a sign of possible infection and at the least he/she will need a dose of pennicillin. Another reason for a runny nose and cough could come from a horse being kept in a dusty barn or building.