Stabling causes a significant increase in the pH of the equine airway.

This research explored how stabling horses impacts the pH levels in the airways of the horses, concluding that it causes a significant increase, potentially due to increased exposure to ambient ammonia.

Research Methodology and Tools

• The researchers focused on pH homeostasis in the horse’s lung, which has previously been a less studied field.
• In order to track changes in the horse’s airway pH in response to changes in the environment, the researchers used a technique of measuring the pH of exhaled breath condensate (EBC). This approach was chosen because it is noninvasive, simple, and yields highly repeatable results.

Findings and Observations

• Through this study, it was discovered that stabling horses leads to a small, yet statistically significant, rise in the concentration of ambient ammonia. This rise was roughly around 100-200 parts per billion.
• Increased exposure to ambient ammonia from stabling was found to be strongly correlated with notable increases in the pH of EBC and exhaled ammonia. The effect size for both was statistically significant.

Impact of Stable Management on Ambient Ammonia

• Upon further research, the team found that the type of stable feed or bedding did not have an impact on the pH of the exhaled breath condensate or the concentration of exhaled ammonia.
• However, the concentration of ambient ammonia experienced by a horse was found to fluctuate on the basis of stable management practice.

Significance of the Research

• This research study provides a better understanding of the effects of stabling and stable management on equine airway pH and ammonia conditions. This is important information for improving stable management and ensuring better health and welfare for horses.
• The findings are particularly relevant for planning horse care strategies in response to other physical or environmental conditions that might affect the airways.