Winter Hydration

In the hot, humid, dog days of summer we are all concerned about drinking water and staying hydrated. We may not think as much about hydration during the winter but it's important to note that the water requirements increase for your horse as it gets colder.

During the winter, horses consume drier feeds most commonly hay. These forages only have about 15% moisture as opposed to the over 60% moisture most pastures contain. This means that it's especially important for horses to drink enough, and maybe more than enough, water during the winter. Horses need about 10-12 gallons of water per day.  A significant problem that may occur if your horse doesn't is impaction colic...colic being a "four letter word" in the equine industry! So it's definitely something you want to avoid if at all possible.

Here are some possible tips for keeping your horse hydrated this winter:

• Provide plenty of good quality forage for your horse
• Check for dental problems--sensitivity can reduce feed and water intake
• Snow and ice are not adequate water sources
• Check water tanks frequently to be sure they are not frozen
• Maintain hoof care and grooming throughout the winter
• Balance adequate shelter and exercise time

It's important to make sure your horses stay hydrated in the winter as well as the summer!