Via theHorse.com
Water is one of the essential nutrients a horse needs to perform a
number of life-support functions, including digestion and
thermoregulation. Especially with the hot summer weather prevalent in
much of the country, it's important to ensure horses have access to
water at all times.
As horse owners, we know it's important to provide free-choice water to
horses at all times, but it is also imperative that the water is of
good quality, clean, and palatable.
A number of circumstances can lead a water deficiency in horses,
including unpalatable taste, lack of water offered, or loss of thirst
due to exertion. The effects of insufficient water intake include
decreased performance, decreased feed intake, dehydration, and
eventually, if not remedied, death.
On average, a typical 1,100-pound horse at maintenance consumes four to
nine gallons of water per day. The amount of water a horse requires can
vary depending upon several factors:
The type, amount, and quality of feed consumed
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Fresh pasture contains between 60-80% moisture and provide a large amount of the horse's water requirements when grazing.
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Hay and grain are very low in moisture, causing horses to drink more water to meet their needs.
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Higher levels of protein and sodium in the diet also increase the horse's water requirement as urinary volume increases.
Temperature and humidity
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Ambient temperatures above 85°F will increase a horse's drinking frequency and volume.
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Colder temperatures (below 45°F) can reduce a horse's water consumption
Learn how to take your horse's vital signs,
what first aid supplies to keep on hand, when you can help your horse
yourself, and when to call the vet in the DVD
First Aid for Horses.
Health status
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Horses with excessive water losses from diarrhea require more water per day.
Physiological stage
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Type of physical activity performed can affect the amount of water a horse needs.
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Performance horses should be allowed to drink water prior to and
during prolonged activity. Horses should be cooled down adequately prior
to being allowed to drink free-choice after exercise..
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Lactating mares require between 50-80% more water per day for milk production compared to horses at maintenance.
With temperatures soaring in many parts of the country, it's important
to remember how crucial water is to keeping horses healthy. Always
ensure your horses have access to fresh, clean water at an appropriate
temperature, and ensure they're drinking the fluids provided. Consider
adding a few ounces of salt or an electrolyte supplements to horses'
diets if lack of water consumption is a concern.
