At what temperature does heat stress occur in horses?

Heat stress in horses typically occurs when the temperature reaches around 105 degrees Fahrenheit. At this temperature, horses become at a higher risk for heat-related issues due to their inability to effectively cool down through sweating. Horses rely on evaporative cooling from sweating, but when the ambient temperature is too high, this process becomes less efficient. Factors such as humidity levels, the horse's workload, and overall health also play significant roles in their heat stress risk.

While higher temperatures can exacerbate the situation, the threshold for heat stress is generally recognized around the 105-degree mark, making it critical for horse owners and caretakers to monitor these environmental conditions to ensure the well-being of their horses. Therefore, understanding this threshold is essential for effective management during hotter weather conditions.