What is a common term for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in horses?

Heaves is the commonly used term for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in horses. This condition is characterized by recurring airway obstruction and inflammation that affects the respiratory function of the animal. Heaves is often triggered by allergens, dust, or other irritants in the horse's environment, such as moldy hay or poor ventilation.

This condition leads to symptoms like coughing, nasal discharge, and difficulty breathing, especially during exercise. It is a chronic condition that can significantly impact the horse's quality of life and performance. The term 'heaves' is widely recognized among equine professionals and horse owners, making it an essential part of understanding equine respiratory health.

In contrast, the other terms listed refer to different health issues. Colic relates to gastrointestinal distress, rheumatoid arthritis pertains to joint inflammation, and pneumonia is an infection of the lungs. Each of these conditions affects different systems within the horse's body, further confirming that 'heaves' is indeed the correct terminology for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in equines.