July 2025 Newsletter
Heat Stress in Horses
Heat stress, also known as exertional heat illness or post-race ataxia is a more common issue than many realise. It is seen more frequently in racehorses due to the high intensity exercise but we see it in all disciplines if the correct preventative measures are not taken. We all love the nice weather this time of year but unfortunately our horses don’t have the luxury of cooling down inside with the air-conditioning on or sitting by the beach with a pinacolada in hand under an umbrella. Heat stress is easily treated if early signs are recognised but can quickly turn very serious if they go unnoticed.
Recognising heat stress- Signs and symptoms
- Excessive sweating
- Ataxia (wobbliness)
- Rapid breathing or increased heart rate
- Lethargy or unresponsiveness
- Elevated body temperature
- Sunken eyes
- Dark urine
- Delayed skin pinch
- Dry mucus membranes
Preventative measures- Tips for keeping horses cool
- Ride early in the morning or late in the evening
- Minimize direct sunlight exposure
- Provide constant access to cool clean water
- Provide adequate airflow naturally (wind) or artificially (fans)
- Use electrolytes to replace what is lost forms sweating
Immediate actions- What to do if your horse is showing signs of heat stress
- Move to an area that is shaded with a good breeze or fans to keep the air moving.
- Apply cold water over the entire body continuously to maximise evaporation cooling.
- Avoid the use of sweat scrapers as they slow the application off water.
- Oral hydration- if the horse is conscious and it is safe to do so offer cool clean water
Heat Stress in Horses
Heat stress, also known as exertional heat illness or post-race ataxia is a more common issue than many realise. It is seen more frequently in racehorses due to the high intensity exercise but we see it in all disciplines if the correct preventative measures are not taken. We all love the nice weather this time of year but unfortunately our horses don’t have the luxury of cooling down inside with the air-conditioning on or sitting by the beach with a pinacolada in hand under an umbrella. Heat stress is easily treated if early signs are recognised but can quickly turn very serious if they go unnoticed.
Veterinary assistance
- IV Fluids – for severely dehydrated or lethargic horses, intravenous (IV) fluid administration is essential. This may include saline or balanced electrolyte solutions to rapidly restore hydration and correct imbalances. IV fluids are crucial if oral hydration is insufficient or not possible.
- Medication- non steroidal anti-inflammotories along with corticosteroids are administered to manage pain and swelling associated with the heat stress
Many of our racing clients may know this already but as of 2025 the British Horse Racing Authority (BHA) have brought in measures that follow the UK’s Met Office heat warnings, ensuring that racecourses and staff take necessary precautions to keep horses cool, hydrated, and free from heat stress.
The responses to heat warnings include
- Red Warning – races are abandoned in the affected area, and no horses should be transported from or through these areas.
- Amber Warning – Special measures are implemented to reduce the risk of heat stress- cooling measures like altering race times, ensuring water provision, and providing shaded areas for horses.
- Yellow Warning – General advice on water provision and cooling strategies is followed.
Heat stress can pose a serious risk to horses, but with the right precautions and timely interventions, we can help ensure their comfort and health during these warmer months.
I hope the information shared has provided valuable insights on recognizing, preventing, and treating heat stress. As always, if you have any concerns or notice signs of distress in your horses, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
Regards,
Patrick