Introduction Hot weather can take a serious toll on your horse’s hydration levels. Dehydration may seem like a minor issue at first, but if left unchecked, it can lead to heat exhaustion, colic, or worse. Knowing the signs and how to prevent dehydration is key to keeping your horse healthy through summer.
Here’s what every horse owner should watch for, and how to keep your equine companion happily hydrated.
💧 Signs of Dehydration in Horses
Dull eyes or lethargy If your horse seems tired, sluggish, or less alert than usual, dehydration could be to blame.
Dry gums or sticky saliva Check your horse’s gums. They should be pink and moist. Dry, pale, or sticky gums are warning signs.
Poor skin elasticity Try the pinch test. Gently pinch the skin on your horse’s neck. If it doesn’t snap back quickly, dehydration may be present.
Reduced urination or darker urine Less frequent, strong-smelling, or dark urine can indicate your horse isn’t drinking enough.
Loss of appetite Dehydrated horses often go off their food, especially hay.
Elevated heart or respiratory rate These signs can point to heat stress, often linked to dehydration.
💧 How to Keep Your Horse Hydrated
1. Fresh, clean water 24/7
This one is obvious, but essential. Horses can drink over 20 litres of water a day in summer, so make sure buckets, troughs, or automatic drinkers are clean and topped up regularly.
2. Offer water in multiple locations
Particularly in the field, place buckets or troughs in different shaded areas to encourage drinking.
3. Add electrolytes
Electrolyte powders or syringes replace the vital salts lost through sweat. These help your horse retain fluids and encourage drinking.
4. Soak feed or hay
Mash feeds or soaked hay can increase water intake passively, ideal for fussy drinkers.
5. Provide salt licks
A plain salt lick can help stimulate thirst and improve electrolyte balance naturally.
6. Cool down after exercise
Hose down or sponge your horse after work, then offer water once breathing has returned to normal.
Conclusion Hydration is the foundation of summer horse health. By staying alert to early warning signs and taking a proactive approach, you can keep your horse cool, comfortable, and well hydrated during even the hottest spells.
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