Why Is Hydration for Horses Crucial?
Water is essential for every bodily function in horses, from regulating temperature to aiding digestion. A 500kg horse may require up to 55 litres of water daily, even in winter. Proper horse hydration is particularly critical during colder months when horses tend to drink less due to reduced thirst.
If a horse is not drinking water in winter, it faces a higher risk of dehydration, which can lead to serious health issues such as colic and impaction. Ensuring adequate hydration for horses during winter isn’t just about preventing discomfort—it’s a matter of life and death.
Risks of Dehydration in Horses
Impaction Colic
During winter, cases of impaction colic rise significantly. This condition occurs when dehydration slows or stops the movement of food through the digestive system, causing painful blockages. Impaction colic can quickly become fatal if not addressed.
Other Health Issues
Dehydration can also lead to:
- Lethargy and decreased energy levels
- Thickened blood, which strains the heart
- Reduced performance and muscle function
- Kidney damage over time
Preventing these risks starts with understanding the signs of dehydration and implementing strategies to ensure your horse remains hydrated throughout the colder months.
Signs Your Horse Is Dehydrated
Key Symptoms to Watch For
Look out for these symptoms that may indicate your horse is dehydrated:
- Lethargy or a lack of energy
- Loss of appetite
- Dark or strong-smelling urine
- Dull coat and eyes
- Thick, sticky saliva
- Dry mucous membranes
- Behavioural changes, such as irritability
- Colic symptoms
Simple At-Home Tests for Hydration
The Pinch Test
Pinch a fold of skin on your horse’s neck and release it. If the skin takes more than two seconds to return to its normal position, your horse may be dehydrated.
Capillary Refill Test
Press your finger against your horse’s gum to create a white indentation. If the pink colour takes more than two seconds to return, this could indicate dehydration.
How to Get Horses to Drink More Water in Winter
Check out some of our top tips for keeping your horse happy and hydrated this Winter:
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Provide Fresh, Unfrozen Water
Horses are less likely to drink water that is icy cold or partially frozen. Use insulated or heated buckets to keep water slightly warm and encourage your horse to drink more. Research shows that horses prefer water around 7–18°C during winter. -
Add Salt or Electrolytes
Salt not only stimulates thirst but also replenishes essential electrolytes. Providing a salt lick or adding electrolytes to your horse’s diet can encourage water intake. Always ensure fresh water is available alongside salted water to give your horse a choice. -
Offer Palatable Water Options
If your horse isn’t drinking enough, try adding a splash of no-added-sugar fruit juice or peppermint flavouring to their water to make it more appealing. These options can be especially useful for picky drinkers. -
Increase Water Content in Feed
Soak hay or provide wet feed options like beet pulp, hay cubes, or mash. These feeds absorb water and help increase your horse’s daily water intake. For example, beet pulp can hold up to five times its weight in water. -
Provide Multiple Water Sources
If your horse uses an automatic drinker, keep backup water buckets available in case the pipes freeze. Check water sources regularly to ensure they’re clean, unfrozen, and accessible. -
Warm Up Soaked Feeds
Horses may avoid feeds soaked in cold water during winter. Use warm water to prepare mashes or soaked hay to make it more palatable. -
Encourage Grazing During Daylight Hours
If possible, allow your horse access to fresh pasture during the day. Grass contains a higher water content than dry hay, which can naturally contribute to hydration.
Keep Your Horse Happy and Healthy this Winter
If you suspect your horse is dehydrated, it is important to contact your vet as soon as possible as this can become life-threatening if left untreated. By being able to recognise the signs of dehydration and implementing appropriate preventative measures, you can ensure your horse remains hydrated, happy, and healthy this Winter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Horses Drink More Water in the Winter?
Not typically. Horses often drink less in winter due to the reduced availability of fresh pasture and lower thirst signals. However, keeping their water intake consistent is essential to avoid dehydration.
How Can I Hydrate a Horse That Refuses to Drink?
If your horse isn’t drinking enough, try warming their water, adding flavouring, or increasing water content in their feed. Always monitor their behaviour and contact a vet if the issue persists.
What Should I Do If My Horse Is Not Drinking Water in Winter?
First, ensure that the water isn’t too cold or frozen. Provide a salt lick to stimulate thirst, and try adding electrolytes or flavour to the water. If the problem continues, consult your vet immediately.