Equine veterinarians across the Southeast are reporting a significant increase in mold-related respiratory disease in horses stabled in flood-damaged facilities, following the widespread flooding events of late 2025 and early 2026.
The most common conditions being diagnosed are heaves — a chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in horses triggered by mold spores and organic dust — and fungal pneumonia caused by Aspergillus and Fusarium species that proliferate in wet bedding and feed.
Horses with heaves present with chronic coughing, nasal discharge, exercise intolerance, and in severe cases, labored breathing at rest. The condition is manageable but not curable, and affected horses may require lifelong management with bronchodilators and environmental controls.
Equine veterinarians are urging barn owners to treat flood-damaged facilities as biohazards. Wet hay and bedding must be removed completely, structural surfaces must be professionally remediated, and facilities must be allowed to dry thoroughly before horses are returned.
The American Association of Equine Practitioners has issued a technical bulletin recommending that barn owners consult with both an equine veterinarian and a certified industrial hygienist before restocking flood-damaged facilities. Air quality testing is recommended to confirm mold clearance.
