10/12/2021
And it’s warming up again keep an eye on the ones we love to make sure they are drinking
Are you drinking enough water in this cooler weather?☔️ If your answer is no, then is is possible that your horse isn’t either! 🐴
Decreased water intake during cooler weather can result in colic, and we anticipate seeing an increase in colic cases after weather events such as what we are experiencing now.
Horses will draw fluid from their intestine to maintain their systemic hydration, and subsequently the contents of the GI tract can become dehydrated and firm, and the motility and functionality of the GI tract can become compromised. This can result in signs consistent with colic.
It is good practice to monitor your horse daily to become familiar with what is normal for them. A 500kg horse should consume around 25-30L per day for maintenance depending on ambient weather conditions; and produce at least 8-10 piles of normally formed faeces. Any deviation from normal may be a red flag, and should initiate closer monitoring.
Scientific literature has demonstrated that horses prefer to drink from blue containers, and like their water at around 24*C. This however can be difficult to manage in winter, and monitoring volume consumed is complicated with auto filling waters or shared paddocks. Older horses specifically may be more sensitive to changes in water temperature.
Electrolytes in feed can assist with encouraging horses to drink, as can those administered over the tongue. Flavoured water (dilute molasses) are appropriate for horses not suffering from metabolic conditions (hello EMS ponies❤️) or prone to laminitis.
Should you have any concerns, or what to chat with us about general health care, colic, or anything - please don’t hesitate to direct message us or call the clinic on: 92964206 “option 3” 🏇🏼
