Managing the effects of heat on horses during extreme summer weather is crucial for their health and wellbeing. When the sun blazes and temperatures rise to 30 – 40°C, it’s not just humans who struggle — horses suffer, too. In summer, a horse’s condition often deteriorates more quickly than in cold weather, as they cope worse with heat than with freezing cold. Many quickly develop circulatory issues in high temperatures, especially under humid conditions. That’s why proper, species-appropriate care is essential to help horses stay healthy and safe during the warmer months.
Horses are remarkably adaptable, but sustained heat stress in horses can lead to diarrhoea, colic, or in severe cases, heatstroke. Breeds native to cooler climates, such as Fjord and Icelandic horses, and those with dark coats (which absorb more heat) are particularly at risk.
Signs of overheating in horses
Recognising the signs early is key to avoiding long-term damage. Symptoms of overheating include:
- Pale mucous membranes
- Dehydration
- Elevated pulse
- Shortness of breath
Strong sun exposure can also cause sunburn or photosensitivity, especially in horses with light skin or hairless areas such as around the nostrils or eyes. Thoughtful summer horse care can make a big difference during long, sunny days. This is the reason why you should implement the following tips into your routine.
10 Tips to help your horse cope with heat
When summer temperatures soar, your horse needs more than just water and shade. To keep your horse safe and comfortable during extreme heat, follow these practical and proven tips for effective summer horse care. Whether you’re managing turnout, stable ventilation, or exercise routines, small changes can make a big difference in your horse’s wellbeing.
1. Adjust turnout times
If your paddock lacks natural shade, adjust your horse’s turnout to cooler hours. Evening or night turnout is ideal. If not possible, choose early mornings. Avoid turning your horse out during the afternoon when temperatures exceed 30°C, as even shaded areas can lead to overheating. A well-planned turnout schedule is one of the foundations of safe summer horse care.
2. Provide shaded areas
A permanent shelter is best, but a group of trees or even a simple sun sail can provide vital protection. A DIY option using 3 – 4 sturdy poles and a tarp is an affordable solution. Creating shade helps reduce the horses’ heat exposure and lowers the risk of heat stress in them.
3. Improve airflow in the stable
Even inside the stable, temperatures can rise quickly when the sun shines directly on the roof or through the windows. Using a fan can help circulate the air and slow down the increase in temperature, allowing warm air to cool more effectively.
When using a fan in the stable, make sure your horse is not standing in the direct airflow. The power cord should be safely out of your horse’s reach. Never leave the fan running unattended or continuously for 24 hours, as it could overheat and pose a fire risk.
If possible, creating a natural cross-breeze by opening two doors or gates at opposite ends of the stable can also provide effective ventilation and cooling.
4. Provide unlimited fresh, cool water
Especially during extreme heat, unlimited access to fresh, cool water is absolutely essential. The water doesn’t need to be ice-cold since horses prefer it at a temperature between 15 and 20°C. However, keep in mind that when outdoor temperatures exceed 30°C, water in buckets or tubs can warm up quickly. Use large containers whenever possible, as they help keep the water cooler for longer, and be sure to refresh the water regularly. Adequate hydration is vital, as horses (just like humans) regulate their body temperature through sweating. This means that in hot weather, they lose a significant amount of fluids, which must be replenished.
5. Encourage your horse to drink more
If your horse isn’t drinking enough, try moistening hay with lightly salted water. This encourages thirst. Only prepare as much hay as your horse will eat quickly to prevent spoilage or mould.
6. Replenish electrolytes
When your horse sweats, it loses not only fluids but also important body salts such as sodium, potassium, and chloride. A lack of electrolytes makes it harder for the horse‘s body to retain fluids, reduces skin elasticity, and decreases stamina. By providing salt licks and supplements, your horse can build up a reserve of fluids and electrolytes. This helps to prevent a deficiency in body salts and allows the fluid and electrolyte balance to be restored more quickly – even after heavy sweating.
7. Riding horses in hot weather
Although horses generally cope well with heat, working hard in high temperatures can still be difficult for them. Only horses that are fit, in good health, and with a stable circulatory system should be ridden under such conditions. Gradually accustom your horse to performing under hot weather conditions. If any health issues arise, such as circulatory instability or signs of heatstroke, the horse must immediately be moved to a cool stable or a shaded area.
If you’re not riding at a high-performance level, consider reducing the workload or splitting training into two shorter sessions per day. Ideally, schedule your rides during the cooler morning or evening hours.
A relaxing trail ride through a shady forest or near a lake can also be a great alternative to working in the blazing sun or a warm indoor arena. Always pay attention to how you’re feeling during training as well. If the heat is affecting your own circulation, it’s time to ease up, for both you and your horse.
After riding, especially if your horse has been sweating, it’s important to thoroughly clean off the salty, damp sweat. Leaving a horse in this state and turning it out on the pasture can promote the growth of bacteria, fungi, and especially mites in the moist, warm sweat. Additionally, the smell of sweat attracts flies, and dried sweat can irritate the skin if not washed off properly.
Refresh your horse after riding – or simply now and then – with a cool rinse. It’s a welcome relief on hot summer days and helps remove sweat from the coat. Use lukewarm water (not too cold) and start by hosing the legs, then gradually move upward. After rinsing, scrape off the excess water with a sweat scraper and walk with your horse until it is dry before putting it back in the stable.
During periods of extreme heat, older horses should not be subjected to physical exertion, as they are particularly sensitive to heat and may suffer from circulatory issues more quickly.
8. Don’t disrupt routines too drastically
Even during heatwaves, it’s best not to change your horse’s routine completely. Horses are creatures of habit. Therefore, sudden shifts may increase the risk of a colic. Instead, make small, consistent adjustments to support their wellbeing during high temperatures.
9. Protect against sunburn
Horses can also get sunburned if they spend too much time in direct sunlight. A lightweight fly sheet not only offers effective protection against insects, but also helps to prevent sunburn. You can apply sunscreen to the nostrils and other hairless or sensitive areas of the body for additional protection.
10. Clip horses with thick coats
For horses with thick coats or those suffering from Cushing’s disease, clipping can provide relief during hot weather. It helps reduce excessive sweating and lowers the risk of circulatory problems.
Many people braid their horse’s mane or tail for decorative purposes, but this is not always advisable. The mane and tail are natural defence mechanisms against flies. They should not be cut short or braided purely for aesthetic reasons. The longer the mane and tail are allowed to grow, the more effectively they can keep flies away. Additionally, a long forelock helps protect the eyes from annoying pests and can help prevent the eye infections that are so common in summer.
Emergency Plan: Heatstroke in horses
If a heatstroke occurs, it’s crucial to act quickly and contact a vet immediately. The following symptoms may indicate heatstroke in horses:
- Heavy sweating (even at rest)
- Lethargy, dull expression, lowered head
- Stumbling or uncoordinated movement
- Hot body
- Muscle cramps
- Loss of appetite
- Dehydration (test with skin pinch)
To perform the skin pinch test, gently take a fold of skin on your horse’s neck between your thumb and forefinger and observe how quickly it returns to its normal position after releasing it. If the skin does not immediately return but remains tented for a moment, this is a clear sign that your horse is dehydrated.
While waiting for the vet to arrive, move your horse into the shade immediately. Offer drinking water, but make sure it is not too cold. You can also place cool, damp towels on the neck and lightly hose the legs to help lower the body temperature.