Equine Anhidrosis

Dr. Sarah H. Garcia DVM, CVA

 

Anhidrosis is an inability to produce sweat in response to an increased body temperature. Horses regulate their body temperature primarily through sweating, and they release approximately 65-70% of their body’s heat this way. Living in Florida is particularly challenging not only because of the high level of heat, but the level of humidity as well. This high humidity decreases the amount of sweat evaporation from the horse’s body, making thermoregulation even more difficult for horses with compromised sweat production.

Anhidrosis can be gradual, where owner’s note a progressive decline in sweat production over a period of time, or it can happen suddenly. Increased respiratory rate and an inability to cool off after exercise are common signs noted by owners. Other signs can include fatigue and poor performance. Some horses may produce small areas of sweat, such as under the saddle pad, but the amount is not appropriate for the level of exercise or body temperature of the horse.

Currently there is no effective conventional treatment for anhidrosis, and the exact cause of the condition has yet to be identified. There are many supplements on the market to promote sweat production, but most lack consistent efficacy, leaving owners frustrated and desperate to help their horses. This is where a Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM) perspective can help.

In TCVM, anhidrosis is considered an excess heat condition and is treated using acupuncture to clear heat, nourish the body fluids and open the sweat pores. Each horse is different, but acupuncture therapy usually consists of 3-4 weekly treatments until the horse is producing an adequate amount of sweat. The horse can then be transitioned to a monthly maintenance routine, even through the winter, to keep them on track for the upcoming warmer weather. Chinese herbal therapy and food therapy is also recommended in addition to acupuncture to help cool these horses off and get them sweating as quickly as possible.