Horse Health - Combating Dehydration this Winter

As we step into 2024, freezing temperatures are affecting horses' water intake across the UK. Cold weather can impact a horse's thirst mechanism, especially considering their increased time indoors with dry hay in winter.

With horses needing 30 liters of water daily and 3 liters for every kg of dry matter consumed, winter dehydration is a significant concern. Water is a crucial nutrient for various bodily processes, constantly lost through excretion, sweating, and breathing.

Inadequate water intake can result in reduced saliva production, leading to decreased appetite and weight loss. Additionally, it may contribute to conditions like impaction colic, where insufficient lubrication in the digestive system can cause feed blockages.

Solutions?

Whilst, it is true you can lead a horse to water, but not make it drink, you can ensure it takes on more water by adding it to its feed.  If you are struggling with your horse drinking enough during these chilly months then we have the solution for you! Meadow Mash is a high-fibre micro-pellet that soaks to form a soft, easy-to-chew mash. It is free from molasses and wholegrain cereals making it low in both sugar and starch. This makes it suitable to feed to horses that need a low starch diet such as laminitis or ulcer-prone horses.

The combination of super fibres retains water to help maintain hydration and increase your horse’s fluid intake. The feed soaks in as little as 5 minutes making it quick and easy to prepare. With a combination of 7 different herbs for extra palatability Pure Meadow Mash is sure to tempt even the fussiest of horses!