Feeding Horses In Hot, Dry Climates

Horses in hot, dry climates need constant access to clean water, salt, a steady forage supply and work scheduled for cooler hours. Electrolytes help only when horses are drinking normally. Most of the guidance below comes from extension and feed-industry sources written for hot weather in general, not specifically for dry climates.

Water first

University of Minnesota Extension says an adult horse at rest drinks about 6 to 10 gallons a day in cool climates, and more in heat or work. The University of Georgia gives 8 to 12 gallons per 1,100 pounds, rising by 10 to 20 percent in hot, humid weather, with cool, fresh water always available. A feed company notes that dry hay raises water intake compared with fresh grass. The sources do not state which gallon they mean.

Salt and electrolytes

Sweat loses sodium, chloride and potassium. Georgia says about two tablespoons of loose salt a day covers a resting baseline, with one to two more during heavy sweating. Minnesota prefers loose salt to blocks and advises offering plain water alongside any electrolyte water, because some horses refuse the taste. Georgia warns against giving electrolytes to a dehydrated horse.

Forage, energy and heat load

An Equestrian Australia article suggests working horses can have forage reduced slightly, never below 1 kg per 100 kg of bodyweight, because fermentation produces heat. It also favours oil over raw grain and limits protein. That article is aimed at hot, humid conditions, so apply it with a nutritionist's advice. Monitor intake, body condition and weight, and watch for rectal temperature above 103 F, about 39.4 C.

What this means for the programme

The programme is in formation. It crosses Sahel mares with thoroughbred sires. Every pony follows a written start plan that begins with a veterinary sign-off. Backing comes first, for sixteen weeks minimum, with short sessions and calm handling. Generalisation follows. Structural Hardening begins only after a vet confirms skeletal maturity. Sessions are capped at 10 to 15 minutes, and there is no strength work before maturity is confirmed. A small case series with success criteria set in advance will test the approach. No ponies are for sale and no results are claimed yet.

Frequently asked questions

Do horses in the heat need electrolytes every day? Not necessarily. Extension sources suggest salt covers light work, and supplements are for moderate to heavy sweating.

Should forage be cut in hot weather? Only slightly, and only for working horses, according to one source. Seek a nutritionist's advice before changing the ration.

When is a hot horse an emergency? Rectal temperature above 103 F, raised heart rate, profuse sweating or a lasting skin tent warrant calling a veterinarian.