West Australian horse owners have been urged to watch for signs of respiratory disease in their animals, although there's no sign the disease has spread to the state.

In line with the rest of the country, WA has imposed a state-wide standstill on the movement of all horses, donkeys and mules.

The Department of Agriculture and Food imposed the 72-hour ban on Saturday to prevent the spread of the equine flu following the discovery of the potentially devastating virus in NSW.

All equine events including pony club and horse racing meetings were also banned in WA.

Director of Animal Biosecurity Ashley Mercy said the ban was statewide.

"While there is no evidence to suggest equine influenza is present in Western Australia, the threat is being taken seriously to ensure the protection of the state's equine industries," Dr Mercy said.

Horse owners have been warned to watch for signs of respiratory disease in their animals including a dry cough, fever, muscle pain and stiffness and laboured breathing.

Horse racing officials were expected to meet later on Sunday to discuss the impact on the industry.

The agriculture department will review the situation before lifting the ban on movement.

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