Respiratory problems are the number one health threat to stabled horses, new research has revealed, and many owners are struggling with similar issues themselves.

The latest Equine Health and Bedding Survey, carried out in December 2025 by bedding manufacturer Bedmax, received 1,179 responses, referring to the care of more than 3,250 horses.

Forty five percent of owners reported a horse suffering from a health problem needing treatment or time off work, with respiratory disease remaining the single most common problem, affecting 26% of these horses.

Thirty five percent of respondents said they themselves suffer from respiratory problems such as asthma, while health problems meant many horses had to be kept on box rest or reduced work for weeks, and in some cases months.

Bedding choice continues to be most strongly influenced by absorbency, low dust, hygiene and quality – with cost ranking much lower than might be expected, despite continued economic pressures.

Purpose-made shavings were used by 45% of respondents, while straw accounted for 10%. Straw pellets were used by 9%, with many owners reporting that they now mix or layer different bedding types as a way of balancing cost, absorbency and dust control.

This year’s survey also confirmed that 70% of owners prefer to support their local equestrian retailer rather than buying bedding online.

“Respiratory disease has been the number one equine health problem in every survey we’ve carried out for more than 20 years,” said Bedmax founder and Managing Director, Tim Smalley.

“What’s especially striking this year is that more than one in three owners are also suffering from respiratory problems themselves. That makes low-dust, hygienic bedding not just a comfort issue, but a genuine health priority for both horses and people.”

Full details of the results of the Bedmax Equine Health and Bedding Survey 2026 are available here.

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