How Much Water Should a Horse Drink Each Day?

At Cavvalure, we know that keeping your horse properly hydrated is just as important as feeding the right forage and ensuring they get enough exercise. Yet, many horse owners aren’t entirely sure how much water their horse should be drinking — and the answer can vary depending on several factors.

In this guide, we’ll break down the recommended water intake for horses, explain how to spot signs of dehydration, and offer practical tips to encourage your horse to drink more, especially during hot weather or after exercise.

How Much Water Does a Horse Need Each Day?

On average, an adult horse needs between 25 and 55 litres of water per day, depending on:

• Size and weight
  Larger horses naturally need more water than ponies or smaller breeds.
• Weather conditions
  During hot weather, horses sweat more, meaning they need extra water to stay hydrated.
• Workload and activity levels
  Horses in regular work (especially those who sweat heavily) will need significantly more water than those at rest.
• Diet
  Horses on a dry forage diet (like hay) need more water than those on lush, moist grass, which provides some hydration.
• Age and health
  Older horses, foals, and those with underlying health conditions may have different hydration needs.

Quick Reference Guide

Why Hydration Matters for Horse Health

Water plays a vital role in almost every bodily function, including:

• Digestion – Softening feed, aiding nutrient absorption, and keeping the digestive tract moving smoothly.
• Temperature Regulation – Essential for sweating and cooling.
• Joint and Muscle Function – Helping to lubricate joints and support muscle performance.
• Waste Removal – Flushing toxins and waste products through the kidneys and urinary system.

Even mild dehydration can lead to reduced performance, lethargy, and an increased risk of colic.

Signs of Dehydration in Horses

It’s not always obvious when a horse isn’t drinking enough. Keep an eye out for these common signs of dehydration:

• Dry or sticky gums instead of moist, healthy gums.
• Skin tenting – Pinch a small fold of skin on the neck; if it takes more than 1-2 seconds to flatten, your horse may be dehydrated.
• Dark, concentrated urine.
• Dull coat and sunken eyes.
• Reduced appetite.
• Lethargy or unwillingness to work.

Encouraging Your Horse to Drink More

Whether your horse is a reluctant drinker or you’re preparing for a hot spell, here are some top tips to increase water intake:

• Fresh, clean water – Ensure water is always fresh and at a comfortable temperature, especially in winter when ice can form.
• Flavour the water – Some horses are more inclined to drink if you add a splash of apple juice or a handful of mint leaves.
• Electrolytes – For horses in hard work, a balanced electrolyte supplement can help replace salts lost through sweat and encourage drinking.
• Soak feed and forage – Adding water to feeds like mash or soaking hay can increase overall water intake.
• Multiple water sources – In fields or turnout areas, ensure there’s more than one water source to prevent dominant horses from blocking access.

Seasonal Considerations: Summer vs Winter

• Summer
  Horses sweat more in warmer months, meaning hydration is critical to avoid heat stress and performance dips.
• Winter
  Horses may be less inclined to drink cold water in winter, so offering lukewarm water or adding a warm mash can help.

Final Thoughts from Cavvalure

At Cavvalure, we believe that a well-hydrated horse is a happy, healthy horse. Whether you’re preparing for a busy competition season or simply ensuring your horse thrives in their day-to-day routine, understanding your horse’s water needs is an essential part of good horse care. As horse owners we must also drink why not have a look at our tumbler.

Explore more horse care tips, seasonal advice, and premium equestrian essentials at Cavvalure.co.uk.