Heat exhaustion in horses is caused by excessive heat, leading to dehydration, weakness, and elevated heart rate.

Heat Exhaustion

Seek veterinary advice if you suspect this disease.

Heat exhaustion in horses is a milder form of heat-related illness characterized by excessive sweating, elevated heart rate, and lethargy due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures and humidity. It can occur when horses are overexerted in hot weather without adequate hydration and cooling measures.

Symptoms

  • Dry gums
  • Skin does not flatten / flatten slowly
  • Excessive sweating
  • Weakness
  • Lethargy
  • Poor balance
  • Low appetite
  • High respiration
  • High heart rate
  • Stumbling

Common in

  • Over 15°C with over 85% humidity
  • Over 25°C with 65% humidity
  • Over 40°C with 50% humidity

Treatment

Treatment for heat exhaustion in horses involves immediately stopping exertion and moving the horse to a shaded or cooler area. Provide access to cool, fresh water and encourage the horse to drink. Additionally, use fans or cold-water sponging to help lower the horse’s body temperature gradually. Monitor the horse closely for signs of improvement and seek veterinary advice if symptoms persist or worsen.

Prevention

Prevent heat exhaustion in horses by avoiding strenuous activity during the hottest parts of the day and ensuring ample shade and access to cool water at all times.

Equine Weather Index

How Happie can help you manage your horse's health

Digital health management offers numerous benefits in modern equine healthcare.

With the Happie Horse App, you can track symptom patterns and body values, such as Temperature, Pulse and Respiration. Allowing you to notice abnormal changes in body and behaviour early on, leading to more successful treatments.

The Happie symptom checker allows you to add all of your horse's abnormal symptoms in order to present potential causes and diseases.

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