Top Tips to hydrate and keep your horse cool in hot weather

As temperatures rise during the summer months, we must take proactive steps to ensure our horses remain hydrated and cool. Heat stress can quickly lead to serious health problems such as dehydration, colic, or even heat stroke. Whether you're caring for your horse at home or heading out on the road, keeping them comfortable and healthy in hot weather is not only responsible, it’s essential.

Here are our top tips to help your horse beat the heat, both at home and while travelling.

Encourage your horse to drink more water by providing constant access to fresh, cool water. In hotter weather, water troughs and buckets can become warm and unappealing, with algae forming faster than normal, so check and refresh them as often as possible. Consider using insulated or shaded water containers to keep water cooler for longer.

Did you know? You can make a mash from your balancer or your balancer and chaff. Add a little water and wait 5 mins to create a hydrating mash for your horse! (can add video to end of blog) SCROLL DOWN TO MAKE A MASH WITH US AND ALEX HELLINGS DRESSAGE!

Sweating causes horses to lose vital salts. Supplementing with salt or electrolytes can help maintain hydration by encouraging water intake and replacing what’s lost. Salt can be added to feed or water, check out our video on this at the end of this blog! (can add video to end of blog)

If your horse is reluctant to drink, especially when away from home, try flavouring the water with a splash of apple juice. Introduce these flavours at home first, so your horse is familiar with the taste.

Whether it’s from trees, a field shelter, or free access to a stable/barn, access to shade is critical. Avoid turning horses out during peak sunlight hours (typically 11am to 4 pm).

In your horses stable, box fans or ceiling fans can help circulate air and reduce temperature. Ensure all cords are out of reach and fans are designed for agricultural/equine use.

A cool rinse with water can help lower your horse’s body temperature. Focus on large muscle areas like the neck, shoulders, and hindquarters.

Ride early in the morning or later in the evening when temperatures are cooler. Avoid hard work during the hottest parts of the day.

Ensure your horse is well-hydrated before loading up. Offer electrolytes a day or two in advance, and bring familiar water from home if your horse is picky.

Trailers and lorries can become dangerously hot, fast. Use windows, roof vents, and fans to keep air moving. Avoid travelling horses during the hottest part of the day when possible.

On longer journeys, stop every couple of hours to check on your horse, offer water, and allow them to rest and get their head down. Always carry extra water and a clean bucket to encourage drinking.

Cooling sheets or similar made from breathable, moisture-wicking materials can offer temporary relief. These are especially useful if you’re heading to a competition/event.

Even with all precautions, it’s important to monitor your horse closely. Signs of heat stress include:

If you notice any of these symptoms, move your horse to a shaded area, offer water, and call your vet immediately.

@bluechipfeed Make a mash with @Alexandra Hellings 🥣🐴 #horse #horses #horseriding #equestrian #equine #feed #horsefeed #bluechipfeed #pony #summer #fyp #foryou #foryoupage #horsehack #horsesoftiktok #horsesoftiktoktok ♬ motive x promiscuous - ℳ💞

Hydration and cooling strategies are essential tools in your horse care knowledge. With the right approach, you can help your horse stay healthy, happy, and cool, whether at home in the field or away at competitions.

Stay cool, ride smart, and put your horse’s health first.

We are always here to help, call us, email or chat on social.

Call: 0114 266 6200

Email: info@bluechipfeed.com

Social: Find us on Facebook and Instagram