## Overview Tracheal collapse is weakening of the tracheal cartilage rings that allows the airway to narrow, especially during exercise. It causes respiratory noise, exercise intolerance, and a honking cough. It is uncommon in horses compared with small-breed dogs but can occur, particularly in miniature horses or after trauma. ## Causes Cartilage weakness, trauma, or congenital malformation. ## Diagnosis Endoscopy or radiographs showing dynamic or static narrowing. ## Treatment Management of exercise and weight. Surgical stenting or external support in selected cases. Prognosis is guarded for severe collapse. ## Recovery and Prognosis Guarded for athletic use if collapse is significant. ## Prevention None specific.
respiratory noise during exercise; exercise intolerance; honking cough
## Overview Tracheal collapse is weakening of the tracheal cartilage rings that allows the airway to narrow, especially during exercise. It causes respiratory noise, exercise intolerance, and a honking cough. It is uncommon in horses compared with small-breed dogs but can occur, particularly in miniature horses or after trauma. ## Causes Cartilage weakness, trauma, or congenital malformation. ## Diagnosis Endoscopy or radiographs showing dynamic or static narrowing. ## Treatment Management of exercise and weight. Surgical stenting or external support in selected cases. Prognosis is guarded for severe collapse. ## Recovery and Prognosis Guarded for athletic use if collapse is significant. ## Prevention None specific.
respiratory noise during exercise; exercise intolerance; honking cough