Horse Care During Peak Heat

When summer hits its peak and the temperatures soar, horse owners must take extra steps to protect their equine partners from the risks of heat stress. Horses are incredibly resilient animals, but excessive heat, humidity, and sun exposure can lead to dehydration, exhaustion, and even dangerous conditions like heatstroke.

Whether you're caring for backyard horses, working animals, or competitive athletes, here are essential tips to keep your horses healthy and comfortable during the hottest days of the season.

1. Prioritize Hydration

One of the most important aspects of summer horse care is ensuring access to clean, cool water at all times.

• Check Water Frequently: Horses can drink 10–20 gallons of water per day in hot weather—sometimes more if they’re working. Make sure troughs and buckets are full and clean.

• Encourage Drinking: If your horse isn’t drinking enough, try adding electrolytes to their feed or water (always offer plain water alongside). You can also flavor water with a bit of apple juice to tempt picky drinkers.

• Prevent Freezing or Overheating: In extreme heat, place water in shaded areas or use insulated buckets to keep it from getting too warm.

2. Offer Shade and Shelter

Protection from direct sunlight is essential—especially during midday when the sun is most intense.

• Use Natural Shade: Trees or lean-tos can offer relief in pastures.

• Provide a Run-In Shelter: If horses live outdoors, a simple run-in shed can make a big difference.

• Avoid Prolonged Sun Exposure: Limit turnout during the hottest hours and consider nighttime turnout when temperatures are cooler.

3. Adjust Exercise Routines

Intense exercise in high heat can put your horse at serious risk for overheating.

• Ride During Cooler Times: Schedule rides early in the morning or later in the evening.

• Take Breaks: During any physical activity, give your horse frequent rests and monitor their breathing.

• Cool Down Properly: After a ride, walk your horse until their breathing returns to normal, and sponge them off with cool (not ice-cold) water to help them cool down gradually.

4. Protect Against Sunburn and Insects

Sun and bugs are part of summer, but too much of either can be uncomfortable—or even harmful.

• Use Fly Masks and Sheets: Lightweight fly gear protects your horse’s face and body from biting insects and sunburn.

• Apply Sunscreen: Horses with pink skin (often around the nose or eyes) are prone to sunburn. Use horse-safe sunscreen to protect sensitive areas.

• Control Pests: Use fly sprays, traps, or natural repellents to reduce flies and mosquitoes around the barn and pasture.

5. Monitor for Signs of Heat Stress

Knowing what to look for can help you act quickly before a heat-related issue becomes serious.

Watch for these signs of heat stress:

• Heavy sweating or, conversely, no sweating

• Rapid breathing or elevated heart rate

• Lethargy or weakness

• Muscle tremors

• Elevated body temperature (normal is 99–101°F)

If you suspect your horse is overheating, move them to a shaded area, offer water, and sponge them down with cool water. Contact your veterinarian immediately if symptoms persist or worsen.

6. Keep Stalls Cool and Comfortable

For horses kept in stalls, airflow and temperature control are key.

• Use Fans for Air Circulation: Secure barn-safe fans to stall fronts or ceilings to keep air moving.

• Provide Good Ventilation: Open windows or doors where safe, and keep barns clean to reduce odors and flies.

• Wet the Stall Floor (Optional): On particularly hot days, lightly misting the floor can help cool the environment.

7. Feed Considerations

In summer, horses may lose more electrolytes through sweat and require adjustments to their diet.

• Provide Salt: Offer free-choice salt blocks to encourage drinking and replenish electrolytes.

• Avoid Overfeeding Grain: High-grain diets can generate extra body heat. Focus on forage-based feeding with added minerals as needed.

• Watch for Weight Changes: Horses might lose weight in summer due to decreased appetite or stress. Adjust rations as needed and consult with a veterinarian or equine nutritionist.

Final Thoughts

Caring for your horse during peak summer heat is all about staying vigilant, making smart adjustments, and listening to your horse’s needs. With plenty of water, shade, and a thoughtful routine, your horse can stay cool, comfortable, and healthy all summer long.

If you ever have concerns about your horse’s behavior or health during extreme heat, don’t hesitate to consult your veterinarian. Every horse is different, and your care plan should reflect their specific needs.

Stay cool, ride safe, and enjoy the summer season with your equine partner!