Cold Weather Water Consumption

Carrying water to iced-over troughs, thawing frozen hoses, and checking for errant current in automatic waterers are not chores horsemen relish. Yet, access to fresh, unfrozen water at all times is a staple of cold weather care for all horses.

Snow should never be thought of as a substitute for water. Though horses might investigate snow with their mouths, they are not capable of deriving sufficient water from it.

Mature horses normally consume several gallons of water each day. An average horse consumes 4 to 9 gallons (15 to 34 liters) each day. Though certain horses will drink less water in winter than in summer, the need for a continuous supply of water remains because horses will likely be consuming dry forages such as hay, thereby increasing thirst.

Without adequate water, any forage horses consume might have a harder time passing through the gastrointestinal tract without blockage. This is especially true if the forage is stemmy and/or poor-quality.

For a more in-depth look at water requirements, click here.