I TalkHorses.com                              Ray/Mags/Fancy

 

The Importance of water

 

It is quite common for us to go out on lameness evaluation and before we leave, we are discussing proper nutrition for your horse. So as a note, we feel that it is important to remind you that the most important nutrient in a horse’s diet is water.  This is especially important going into winter when horses need to keep their core body temperature up.  An average 1000lb. horse typically drinks between 3 to 8 gallons of water a day.  Remember that all horses are individuals and the amount will vary from horse to horse. Horses that become dehydrated are then at risk for intestinal impaction and colic. Water is needed for normal consumption of food and aids in proper digestion.  This becomes important when outside temperatures drop as horses use digestion to fuel their internal furnace and keep their core body temperature up. Without proper amounts of water they become less efficient at this process.  During these winter months your horse needs an endless supply of fresh clean water. If you find that your horse is not drinking sufficient amounts of water when the temperature drops there are a few things that you can do to entice them to increase their intake. One such way is to add 1-2 teaspoons of table salt to their grain daily. Another similar process is to increase their consumption of electrolytes. This can be done by adding electrolytes to their water (remember to also offer water that does not have electrolytes added), adding electrolytes to their grain, or in the form of a paste that you give orally. When the temperatures drop below freezing, many horses will not drink “ice water”, therefore, investing in a tank heater that will prevent the water from freezing will keep them drinking. This can potentially save on costly vet bills in the long run. If you think that your horse is dehydrated simply check with the pinch test.  Pinch some skin on their neck, if it snaps back into place then they are not dehydrated, but if the skin lingers, this is a good sign that they are not drinking enough. Other warning signs include lethargy, lack of appetite, and dry, hard manure. When winter is coming it is a good idea to clean your water tanks and check your tank heaters in preparation. 

- Wendy Simmons, DVM

Block and Bridle Veterinary Service

32649 WCR 53

Greeley, CO 80631

http://www.blockandbridlevets.com/