Considering the signs of dehydration with your horse

How much do you think about your horse's water intake?

Did you know that water is the single largest ingredient in the horse's makeup and is vital for survival? Two thirds of a horse's bodyweight is water. Survival without food but water would be possible for a short time. But no water would fatal quite soon. So it is vital to avoid dehydration. This occurs when the horse has lost too much water, and hasn't had it replaced.

Mild dehydration can affect performance, although this might be subtle. Which means if you are riding and notice your horse isn't 100%, you may put it down to something else. But it could be his hydration levels.

Also severe dehydration can damage the organs, including the kidneys. Ailments such as colic can occur too.

Water within the horse's body is either (1) intra-cellular (within the cells). Or (2) extra-cellular (around the cells).

You may think of dehydration only happening in hot weather conditions. And definitely a lot of water is lost through sweating. But it can occur any time of the year. A lot will depend on how your horse (or pony or donkey) lives. For instance, if they are out grazing 24/7 then they may get a lot of water intake through the grass. But this is not guaranteed. If it actually hasn't rained much, such as long dry cold spells. Then there will be little water for them from the grass.
If your horse is stabled, then their food source may offer them little water intake. Clean fresh water is vital at all times.

But other situations may lead to your horse's dehydration. Having physical ailments will make a difference to water intake. Teeth or jaw problems for example will do that. Likewise another situation will be if your horse travels in a lorry. Some horses do not want to drink when in a trailer or box.

What are the signs of dehydration in your horse?
There are many signs such as:

• Loss of pliability of the skin
• Weight loss
• Small, dry faeces
• Listlisness
• Weak pulse
• Increased heart rate
• Loss of colour from the membranes of the eyes and gums
• Depression
• Fatigue

There are many others too, so if in doubt speak to your veterinarian!

So what can you do?

Make sure your horse has clean water at all times. Know what they usually drink. Keep an eye out for any signs of them not being well. Or not being quite right. Consider that if they are unwell, such as have diarrhoea then dehydration may occur.

Dehydration can be a symptom of another health condition. If you have any concerns do speak to your veterinary surgeon for advice.

Are there any complementary therapies that can help your animal if they're dehydrated?

Some herbal preparations and homeopathy can be help as part of a holistic approach. So for example if your horse has a kidney issue then yes there are complementary therapies. But this will vary according to your horse and his or her ailment.

Many veterinarians do recommend the use of herbs as part of their treatment. But there are specialist veterinary surgeons who have also completed specialist training.

Speak to your vet if you think your horse is unwell without delay. Delaying treatment especially in such conditions as dehydration. Can lead to significant or even fatal situations.