December 2004

Winter Feed: Water Intake Is Key

Inadequate water consumption is the leading cause of winter health problems, usually due to too-cold water.

Not all horses are willing to take in enough water during the winter months.

Drinkable water is the most important element of good winter care. Note we said “drinkable.” The complications of insufficient water intake—dehydration, shock, colic—can occur within just a day or two. Impaction colic is the most common symptom, although it may get blamed on the dry winter diet, less exercise and even parasite problems, but usually the reason is inadequate drinking.

Granted, a horse will drink less water in the winter than the summer because he sweats less—just as we do—but he still needs to consume a minimum of 3 to 4 times as much water as hay to keep his body functioning properly. If he’s on hay and grain, he needs…