💧How to Help Your Horse Drink More Water in Winter ❄️🐎 | Vet Tips for 2025

As temperatures drop, your horse’s water intake likely does too 🥶. This can lead to serious health risks like dehydration and impaction colic. In this 2025 vet-approved guide, Dr. Duncan Houston explains how to keep your horse hydrated through the cold months with simple, affordable techniques. 🧂🐴

🚩 Why Hydration Drops in Winter

Unlike summer, when horses sweat heavily and seek water naturally, winter brings a deceptive danger—low thirst. Horses simply don’t feel the need to drink when it's cold, but their bodies still require similar hydration levels. Without enough water, dry matter builds up in the intestines, slowing down digestion and increasing the risk of impaction colic.

🧠 What Triggers Thirst in Horses?

To keep your horse drinking, it’s important to understand what stimulates thirst. According to equine nutrition expert Dr. Clair Thunes, it’s not just water loss—it's blood sodium levels 🧂. Sodium, potassium, and chloride are the three primary electrolytes horses need daily:

• 10 grams of sodium
• 25 grams of potassium
• 40 grams of chloride

Forage like hay or pasture naturally contains plenty of potassium but almost no sodium. This imbalance makes supplementation essential during winter months.

🧂 Why Salt Blocks May Not Be Enough

While many horse owners offer salt blocks, research shows most horses don’t lick them enough to meet daily sodium requirements. A horse would need to consume approximately two tablespoons of table salt daily just to hit the 10g sodium minimum.

Most horses only get a fraction of this from blocks—especially when cold weather reduces licking behavior.

💡 A Simple DIY Electrolyte Formula

You don’t need fancy supplements or expensive electrolyte mixes. In many cases, you can get the job done just as effectively with kitchen ingredients. Here’s Dr. Houston’s cost-effective, winter-safe formula:

This combo delivers the right balance of sodium, potassium, and chloride to stimulate thirst naturally—and help your horse drink more even when it’s chilly outside. 🐴💦

❌ Watch Out for Sugary Electrolytes

Many commercial electrolytes contain high levels of sugar. Not only do they dilute the mineral concentration, but they can also be harmful to horses with metabolic issues like insulin resistance or Cushing's disease. Check the label or ask your vet before use.

🌡️ Bonus Tips for Winter Hydration

• Warm up the water: Horses prefer lukewarm water (around 45°F to 65°F). Heated buckets or insulated water troughs help keep temps ideal ❄️🔥
• Monitor water daily: Check for ice and ensure clean, fresh water is always available
• Add water to feed: Soaking hay or mash boosts fluid intake—especially helpful for picky drinkers
• Track manure: Small, dry stools are often the first sign of dehydration 💩

🧠 Final Thoughts from Dr. Duncan Houston

Hydration isn't just a summer issue. In winter, the risk of colic increases when horses reduce water intake. By supplementing with the right electrolytes, offering warm water, and staying observant, you can prevent serious complications. A little salt goes a long way toward keeping your horse happy and healthy all year long. 🌨️💙

🚨 Need help managing hydration, diet, or winter colic prevention?

Dr. Duncan Houston and the Ask A Vet team are here to help. 🐴📱 Visit AskAVet.com or download the Ask A Vet app for on-demand support, expert nutrition advice, and personalized care from trusted veterinarians. 📲🧑‍⚕️

Your horse deserves the best care—season after season. 🍂❄️🌷☀️