How to keep your horse cool during hot weather: essential summer tips for horse owners

A heatwave in May may feel like a treat for us, but for our equine companions, soaring temperatures can quickly become uncomfortable - and even dangerous.

As we head into warmer weather, it’s important to make a few simple adjustments to help keep your horse cool, hydrated and healthy. Horses can struggle to regulate their body temperature during periods of prolonged heat, especially if they are working, travelling or have underlying health concerns.

Here are our top tips for supporting your horse during hot weather.

1. Adjust riding times and workload

When temperatures rise, it’s sensible to rethink your riding routine.

Try to avoid riding during the hottest part of the day, typically between late morning and early evening. Instead, opt for early morning or later evening rides when temperatures are cooler.

You may also need to reduce the intensity or duration of exercise. Even fit horses can overheat quickly, particularly in humid conditions.

Signs your horse may be struggling with heat include:

• Excessive sweating

• Increased breathing rate

• Lethargy or fatigue

• Delayed recovery after exercise

• Reduced appetite

If in doubt, ease back and allow plenty of recovery time.

2. Prioritise shade and fresh water

Access to shade is essential during periods of hot weather. Whether this comes from trees, shelters or stabling during peak heat, horses need somewhere to escape direct sunlight.

Equally important is ensuring constant access to fresh, clean water. Horses can drink significantly more during warmer weather, and dehydration can happen faster than many owners realise.

Top tip: Check water troughs regularly throughout the day to ensure they remain clean, cool and topped up.

3. Hose your horse off - and don’t scrape it away

One of the most effective ways to cool an overheated horse is by thoroughly hosing them down.

Focus on large muscle groups, the neck, chest and between the hind legs where heat tends to build up. A common mistake is scraping the water off immediately - but in hot weather, leaving the water on can actually help prolong cooling.

Think of it as allowing evaporation to do the hard work.

Repeated drenching can help bring body temperature down more effectively than a quick rinse alone.

4. Consider electrolytes carefully

During hot weather, horses lose important salts and minerals through sweat. Electrolytes can help replace these losses and support hydration.

However, consistency matters.

Electrolytes tend to be far more effective when introduced as part of a regular feeding routine, rather than as a one-off supplement after intense sweating. Every horse is different, so it’s worth discussing the best approach for your horse’s workload and health needs.

Always ensure fresh water is available when feeding electrolytes.

5. Keep a closer eye on vulnerable horses

Some horses need extra support during warmer weather.

Take additional care with:

• Young horses and foals

• Elderly horses

• Sick or recovering horses

• Nursing mares

These horses may struggle more with temperature regulation and hydration, so frequent checks throughout the day are essential.

6. Try a “water bar” to encourage drinking

Some horses simply aren’t enthusiastic drinkers - and this can become a real concern during hot spells.

A fantastic way to encourage hydration is to create a water bar: a bucket or container of water infused with horse-safe treats and flavours to tempt them to drink more.

Some refreshing additions include:

🍉 Watermelon
🍏 Apples
🥒 Courgette
🌿 Fresh mint
🌱 Willow

The novelty and flavour can encourage increased water intake, helping support hydration during warm weather.

Important: Always provide plain, fresh water in a familiar bucket alongside any flavoured option. For some horses, too much novelty can be overwhelming, and they should always have access to water they recognise and trust.

When to contact your vet

If your horse seems distressed by the heat, stops drinking, appears lethargic, or struggles to recover after exercise, it’s important to seek veterinary advice promptly.

Heat-related illness can escalate quickly, but early intervention makes a big difference.

If you have any questions about supporting your horse in hot weather, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team. Call us on 01473 970393, email office@starlingequinevets.co.uk, or send us a message - we’re always happy to help.

Stay cool, stay hydrated, and give your horse a little extra care this summer 💚