Anhidrosis in Horses

Seek veterinary advice if you suspect this disease.

Anhidrosis in horses, also known as “dry coat syndrome” or “non-sweating syndrome,” is a condition where horses lose their ability to sweat effectively. This can occur due to prolonged exposure to heat and humidity, leading to impaired thermoregulation.

Symptoms

Treatment

Treatment for anhidrosis in horses typically involves a combination of management strategies to help improve sweating ability.
This may include providing ample shade and ventilation, ensuring access to cool water baths or misting systems, adjusting exercise routines to cooler times of the day, and supplementing with electrolytes or medications as prescribed by a veterinarian to support sweating function.
Regular monitoring and adjustments to management practices are crucial for managing anhidrosis effectively.

Prevention

Preventing anhidrosis in horses involves careful management to minimize heat stress. This includes providing ample shade and ventilation in hot weather, ensuring access to cool water at all times, adjusting exercise intensity and duration during periods of high heat and humidity, and regularly monitoring the horse’s condition for early signs of heat-related stress. Maintaining proper hydration and electrolyte balance through appropriate supplementation can also help prevent the onset of anhidrosis.