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Horse care guide
What’s normal, what to do every day, week and year, and when to call the vet.
01 — Know what’s normal
Check these when your horse is calm and at rest, so you know their normal.
Temperature
37.2 – 38.3 °C
Over 38.5 °C is a fever. Call your vet.
Heart rate
28 – 44 bpm
Over 60 at rest can signal pain, such as colic.
Breathing
10 – 24 / min
Count flank movements for 30 seconds and double.
Capillary refill
under 2 sec
Press the gum; colour should return within 2 seconds.
02 — Routine
Every day
Every week
Every 6–8 weeks
Every 2–3 months
Every year
03 — Feeding
Most problems start with feeding. Keep it simple: plenty of forage and water.
Forage
1.5 – 2.5%
of body weight per day, as hay or grass
Water
25 – 55 L
per day, more in heat and work
Salt
Always
free-choice salt lick or added salt
Meals
Little & often
horses are made to graze most of the day
04 — Body condition
Feel along the ribs, back and neck. 5 is the target for most horses.
1
Poor
Bones clearly visible, no fat.
3
Thin
Ribs easy to see, spine visible.
5
Ideal
Ribs felt but not seen, back level.
7
Fleshy
Fat over ribs, crease down the back.
9
Obese
Bulging fat, deep crease, fat pads.
05 — Daily care
Hooves
Pick out daily, look for cracks, heat or smell. Regular farrier visits keep balance and comfort.
Teeth
Dropping feed, head tossing or weight loss can mean dental problems. Check at least once a year.
Skin & coat
Grooming spreads oils and lets you find lumps, cuts and skin infections early.
Exercise
Daily movement and turnout keep joints, gut and mind healthy.
Shelter
Dry bedding, fresh air and shade or shelter from wind and rain.
Company
Horses are herd animals. A companion reduces stress.
06 — Call the vet
If you see any of these, call your vet straight away. Don’t wait to see if it passes.
Horse diseases & first stepsThis guide is general information, not veterinary advice.
Printable care checklists