Make sure horses always have fresh water and shade. Avoid exercise and turnout during the hottest part of the day, and use cold water to help them cool down. Watch each horse closely, as some cope with heat better than others.
During hot weather:
Horses lose more fluid through sweat in hot weather. For a typical 500kg horse, intake can rise to around 50–70 litres per day in warm conditions, especially if the horse is exercising. Larger or more active horses may need more.
Offer more than one source of fresh water and, if possible, keep it in the shade. Clean troughs and buckets regularly.
Pay attention if your horse starts drinking less than usual. Contact your vet if the change is significant or you have concerns.
You can encourage your horses to drink by lightly flavouring water, for example, with a small amount of apple juice. Always provide plain water alongside it, so they can choose.
Adding water to feed can also help with hydration. According to the British Horse Society, soaking or steaming hay is one way to increase water intake.
The BHS advises soaking hay in clean, cold water for 6–12 hours or warm water for one hour. In hot weather, shorten the soaking time to limit mould and bacteria. Steaming also adds moisture while retaining more nutrients.
If you are thinking of making changes to forage, do it gradually to reduce the risk of digestive problems.
During hot weather, plan your horse’s routine around the cooler parts of the day - when conditions are cooler and more comfortable - to reduce the risk of heat stress.
Some horses may prefer a cool, well-ventilated stable during the hottest part of the day. Others may be happier outside if they have plenty of water and shade. Watch your horse and the conditions to decide what works best.
It is also a good idea to reduce their workload. Lower the intensity or duration of their exercise and let them rest and recover more. Bear in mind that grooming and tacking up can also be more tiring for horses in hot weather.
Plan any travel carefully and arrange it for cooler parts of the day where you can. Make changes to your horse’s routine gradually.
Horses generate a lot of body heat during exercise, so cool them down promptly in hot weather.
Apply cool water continuously with a hose or buckets and sponges. Leave the water on the horse so evaporation helps with cooling. Gentle walking can also support recovery.
Watch the horse’s breathing, heart rate, temperature and behaviour as it cools.
Contact your vet immediately if the horse shows signs of heat-related illness or does not recover as expected.
According to the British Horse Society, early signs to watch for include:
Serious signs of heat exhaustion can include:
A single sign may not mean your horse is dehydrated, but several together are more concerning.
If you think your horse has a heat-related illness, contact your vet immediately. Move the horse into shade, offer fresh water and continuously apply cold water over its body while you wait for help.
Check horses more frequently throughout the day. Conditions can change quickly, especially during long hot spells.
Cut back on or stop strenuous exercise and focus on keeping your horse comfortable.
If your horse sweats heavily, they might need electrolytes. Follow your vet’s or the manufacturer’s guidance. Always provide plain water as well.
Flies and biting insects can make horses uncomfortable during warm weather. Horses with pink skin or light-coloured coats may also need extra protection from the sun.
To reduce exposure:
Check sun protection and fly equipment regularly for rubbing or damage.
Chart Stables’ mobile field shelters provide movable shade and weather protection for horses living out
The right stable features can help horses cope during hot weather. Vents, talk grilles and top doors let more air through the building, while an extended canopy provides extra shade. Our guide to keeping stables cool in summer and warm in winter explains these building features in more detail.
At Chart Stables, we design and build timber stable blocks around your horses, property and daily routine. Explore our timber horse stables or contact our team to discuss your plans.
What do horses need in the summer?
Horses need constant access to fresh water and suitable shade or shelter. During hot weather, adjust exercise and turnout times, provide good airflow and check regularly for signs of heat stress.
Should horses be stabled in hot weather?
A cool, well-ventilated stable can provide shelter during the hottest part of the day. However, a hot or poorly ventilated stable may be less comfortable than a paddock with constant water and suitable shade. Choose the option that best suits your horse and the conditions.
How much water does a horse need on a hot day?
A typical 500kg horse may drink around 50–70 litres of water per day in warm weather. Exercise, body size, diet and individual needs can increase this amount, so provide constant access to clean, fresh water.
Should you scrape water off a hot horse?
No. Keep applying cold water and leave it on the horse to help them cool down. The British Horse Society advises against scraping it off.
Can you ride a horse during hot weather?
You may be able to ride during cooler parts of the day, depending on the temperature, humidity and your horse’s health and fitness. Reduce the intensity or duration of exercise and monitor the horse closely. Avoid riding in extreme conditions.
