Health Care · Horse Welfare · Horses · Summer ·May 22, 2026

Caring for Your Horse During Unexpected Heatwaves

British weather can be unpredictable — one minute we’re battling mud, the next we’re facing soaring temperatures and unexpected heatwaves. While many horses enjoy sunshine and turnout, prolonged hot and humid weather can quickly become uncomfortable and, in some cases, dangerous.

Just like us, horses can struggle in extreme heat. Dehydration, electrolyte loss, heat stress, reduced appetite, and lethargy can all become concerns during warmer weather, especially for horses in work, travelling, competing, older horses, or those living out full-time.

Here are some practical ways to help keep your horse cool, comfortable, and supported during a heatwave.

1. Prioritise Hydration

Water is one of the most important factors during hot weather. Horses can lose large amounts of fluid through sweating, and some may drink significantly more during a heatwave. According to the British Horse Society, a 500kg horse may drink around 50–70 litres of water per day in hot conditions. (bhs.org.uk)

Top hydration tips:

Ensure constant access to fresh, clean water
Regularly check troughs and buckets throughout the day
Keep water sources shaded where possible
Clean troughs frequently to encourage drinking
Consider soaking feeds to increase water intake

Some horses can become fussier about drinking when travelling or competing, so monitoring intake closely is essential.

2. Replace Lost Electrolytes

Sweating doesn’t just cause fluid loss — horses also lose important electrolytes such as sodium, chloride, and potassium. These minerals play an important role in hydration, muscle function, and recovery.

Horses in work, travelling, or sweating heavily may benefit from electrolyte support alongside access to fresh water. Supporting electrolyte balance can be particularly important during periods of prolonged heat or humidity.

3. Avoid Exercising During Peak Temperatures

Try to avoid riding, schooling, or travelling during the hottest parts of the day. Early mornings or later evenings are often safer and more comfortable for horses.

Heat and humidity together can significantly affect a horse’s ability to cool itself effectively. Horses rely heavily on sweating to regulate body temperature, but this becomes less efficient in humid conditions. (horsejournals.com)

If your horse does exercise:

Allow plenty of recovery time
Cool down gradually
Offer water regularly
Monitor breathing and recovery carefully

And remember — there’s no harm in giving horses lighter days during extreme weather.

4. Make Shade & Airflow a Priority

Whether stabled or turned out, horses should always have access to shelter from direct sunlight.

Helpful ways to improve comfort include:

Turning out overnight where appropriate
Providing field shelters or shaded areas
Improving stable ventilation
Using fans safely in stable environments
Avoiding rugs unless genuinely necessary

Some horses may still need lightweight fly protection, but heavier rugs can trap excess heat.

5. Cool Horses Correctly

If your horse becomes hot after exercise or during very warm weather, cooling with water can be highly effective.

Current guidance supports repeatedly applying cool or cold water over the horse’s body to help reduce temperature effectively. (bluecross.org.uk)

Focus on:

Neck
Chest
Between the hind legs
Large muscle areas

Continue cooling until the horse’s breathing and temperature return to normal.

6. Know the Signs of Heat Stress

Heat-related illness can escalate quickly, so recognising the early signs is important.

Watch out for:

Excessive sweating — or a horse that suddenly stops sweating
Rapid breathing or flared nostrils
Lethargy or dullness
Elevated temperature
Reduced appetite
Slow recovery after exercise
Muscle tremors or weakness

If you’re concerned your horse may be suffering from heat exhaustion or heat stroke, contact your vet immediately and begin active cooling with water while waiting for advice. (askavet.com)