Horse Hydration in Cold Weather: Signs of Dehydration + Do Salt Licks Help?

Why winter hydration matters (even when it’s cold)

It’s easy to assume dehydration is a summer problem. But winter is when many horses quietly drink less — especially if water is icy, buckets freeze, and they’re living on dry forage.

If you’re worried about colic risk, your horse seems unwell, or drinking drops suddenly, speak to your vet.

Quick answer: can horses get dehydrated in winter?

Yes, they can.

Many horses drink less in cold weather, and winter routines can reduce water intake without you noticing straight away.

Common winter triggers include:

• Very cold water that’s less appealing

• Frozen buckets or troughs reducing access

• More hay (dry forage) and less grass

• Less movement if stabled more

Signs your horse may not be drinking enough

Keep it simple: look for changes from your horse’s normal.

Common signs include:

• Drier, smaller droppings

• Reduced appetite or leaving forage

• Less urine or darker urine

• Dullness or seeming “off”

• Drinking eagerly when fresh water is offered

If you’re concerned, don’t wait — get veterinary advice.

Why horses often drink less in cold weather

A few everyday winter realities can reduce intake:

• Icy water can put some horses off

• Buckets can freeze overnight or ice over during the day

• Horses may be turned out in wind/rain and choose shelter instead of walking to water

• Stabled horses may drink less if water isn’t refreshed often (or is too cold)

The goal is to make drinking easy and routine — not a battle.

Simple ways to encourage drinking in winter

These are the practical basics that help most:

• Refresh water little-and-often during cold snaps

• Break ice and replace water rather than leaving slushy water

• If suitable for your setup, offer slightly warmed water (not hot)

• Use more than one bucket so there’s always a backup

• Keep buckets away from draughts and off cold concrete where possible

If frozen water is a constant issue, you may also find this helpful:https://www.chestnutmill.co.uk/blogs/equestrian/stop-horse-water-freezing

Do salt licks help horses drink more?

They can help some horses.

Salt supports normal hydration and electrolyte balance, and having access to salt can encourage drinking — especially if your horse isn’t getting much salt elsewhere.

That said, it’s not a magic fix. If water is frozen or your horse dislikes the temperature, you still need to solve the basics first.

Salt lick vs mineral lick (simple explanation)

• Salt licks are mainly sodium chloride.

• Mineral licks include salt plus added minerals (varies by product).

If your horse already has a balanced diet or supplement plan, choose licks thoughtfully so you’re not doubling up unnecessarily.

Where to put a lick (so it actually gets used)

• Place it somewhere easy to reach where your horse spends time

• Keep it dry and clean

• Give it time — some horses take a while to use licks regularly

Browse:

• https://www.chestnutmill.co.uk/collections/new-horse-salt-mineral-licks

Winter hydration checklist (quick routine)

• Water available at all times (not frozen)

• Refresh water little-and-often in cold snaps

• Consider slightly warmed water (not hot)

• Plenty of forage (fibre supports warmth and gut health)

• Salt/mineral lick available (if appropriate)

• Monitor droppings, appetite, and behaviour

FAQs

Do horses need salt in winter?

Many benefit from access to salt/minerals year-round. Needs vary, so if you’re unsure, ask your vet or an equine nutritionist.

Can a salt lick make my horse drink more?

It can encourage drinking for some horses, but it won’t help if water access is limited or frozen.

How do I know if my horse is dehydrated?

Look for changes like drier droppings, reduced appetite, less urine, or a noticeable drop in drinking. If concerned, contact your vet.

How much water should a horse drink per day?

It varies by horse, diet, and workload. The most useful benchmark is what’s normal for your horse — then act if it changes.

Is it safe to give warm water?

Slightly warmed water is commonly used in winter. Avoid hot water and introduce changes gradually.

Can dehydration cause colic?

Dehydration can contribute to digestive issues. If you’re worried about colic risk, speak to your vet.

What’s the difference between a salt lick and a mineral lick?

A salt lick is mainly sodium chloride. A mineral lick includes salt plus added minerals (varies by product).

Should all horses have access to a lick?

Many owners provide one, but it depends on the overall diet and management. If unsure, ask your vet or nutritionist.

Make winter hydration easier

If you’re trying to keep winter routines simple, focus on the basics: reliable water access, a refresh routine, and sensible support from salt/minerals where appropriate.

Helpful links:

• Horse salt & mineral licks: https://www.chestnutmill.co.uk/collections/new-horse-salt-mineral-licks

• Horse supplements: https://www.chestnutmill.co.uk/collections/new-horse-supplements

• Feeding equipment (buckets, tubs and more): https://www.chestnutmill.co.uk/collections/new-horse-feeding-equipment