The Horse’s Vital Signs

Understanding your horse’s vital signs is one of the most important skills you can develop. These simple measurements—temperature, pulse, respiration, and more—offer early insight into pain, illness, or stress, often before any visible symptoms appear.

In this guide, we’ll walk through what’s normal, how to check each sign accurately, and when to take action. Whether you’re studying for certification or caring for your own horse, mastering these basics is essential for safe, confident horse care.

Normal Vital Signs for Adult Horses

Vital Sign	Foals (Newborns)	Yearlings	Adults
Heart Rate (BPM)	60–80	40–60	28–40
Temperature (°F)	99.5–101.5	99.5–101.5	99.5–101.5
Respiration (Breaths/Min)	20–40	16–24	8–16
Capillary Refill Time (CRT)	≤ 2 seconds	≤ 2 seconds	≤ 2 seconds
Mucous Membranes	Light pink, moist	Light pink, moist	Light pink, moist

Reading Vital Signs: A Lifesaving Skill

Being able to read a horse’s vital signs is an essential skill for anyone who interacts with horses, whether as an owner, rider, or professional.

A horse’s temperature, pulse, respiration rate, and capillary refill time are key indicators of its health. Recognizing subtle changes in these vital signs can help detect early signs of illness, injury, or stress, enabling prompt action before a condition worsens. This knowledge can save a horse's life in emergencies.

Every Horse is Different: Learn Your Horse’s Baseline

Familiarizing yourself with a horse's baseline vital signs while they are healthy is crucial for effective health monitoring.

Each horse is unique, and understanding their normal temperature, pulse, respiration, and other indicators provides a reference point for identifying potential problems. The variation in what is considered “normal” vital signs is dependent on the horse’s fitness, age, breed

Regularly checking these baselines not only sharpens your skills but also ensures you can detect subtle changes early, giving you a head start in addressing health concerns. This proactive approach promotes better care and can prevent minor issues from becoming major emergencies.

In the event of an illness, your veterinarian will also appreciate knowing what is “normal” for your horse.

Remember: your horse’s vital signs should be taken while the horse is at rest and recorded regularly along with any of your horse’s individual peculiarities, like appetite and behavior.

Respiration: 8 to 16 Breaths per Minute

The normal respiration rate of a horse is between 8 to 16 breaths of air per minute. Of course, exercise will increase that rate, so the respiration should be taken when your horse is at rest.

If your horse’s respiratory rate exceeds its heart rate, your horse is in serious distress. If this occurs while you are riding, you must stop immediately and allow the horse to rest. If this doesn’t correct itself you must call a veterinarian.

There are several methods to determine respiratory rates in horses. One, you can watch your horse’s flanks move in and out, counting the rate per minute.

STwo, you can watch the nostrils flare and count them for 30 seconds and then double that amount for breaths per minute.

A horse’s respiration rate may increase due to excitement, exercise, fear, work, pain or illness.If your horse has an elevated respiratory rate play detective and see if you can find the reason and monitor the rate to see if it returns to normal.

Temperature: 99.5 to 101.5

A horse’s temperature is taken rectally. If using a standard glass thermometer, it must be shaken to get the red mercury below the horse’s normal temperature range, so at least below 95. Dip the thermometer in a vaseline-type lubricant. Be sure to insert the thermometer all the way to avoid breakage.

A “Veterinarian” thermometer has a string and a clip so that the string can be clipped to the horse’s tail for ease of removal and to prevent it from dropping. A digital thermometer is easier to use, but a cleaning process must be observed.

When inserting the thermometer make sure you are standing in a safe position, off to the side (usually the horses left side), go slow and keep talking to your horse.

Taking your horse’s temperature on a regular basis will let you know the baseline temperature for your horse so you will know if the temperature is high.

Carefully insert the thermometer all the way and leave for a full three minutes. After the three minutes quickly remove the thermometer and wipe it clean, wash and clean again with disinfectant solution, rinsing again before storing.

Temperatures over normal:

• 101 - May not be a concern for some horses. If this is not within your horse’s normal range, continue monitoring.

• 102 – The horse should rest and temperature should be taken frequently.

• 103 – A veterinarian should be called.

• 104 – This is considered a moderate temperature that requires a veterinarian.

• 106 – This is a very sick horse.

  
  

Heart Rate: 28 to 40 BPM in Adults 40 to 60 BPM in Yearlings 60 to 80 BPM in Foals

A horse’s heart rate is a very good indication of fitness. Endurance horses are required to stop at intervals in the race to have their heart rate and respiration monitored. An endurance horse may enter a checkpoint with a heart rate over 130 beats per minute and drop below 70 within 15 minutes. A cross-country horse may reach a heart rate of over 200.

The amount of time it takes to recover is an indication of fitness. An out-of-shape horse may take an hour to recover.

Some factors may increase heart rate besides exercise. Any excitement or stimulus that frightens your horse will increase his heart rate. Hot weather will increase heart rate and respiratory rates. Pain will increase heart rate as well as sickness. If your horse has an elevated heart rate, play detective and see if you can find the reason. Monitor the rate to see if it returns to normal.

An owner should record their horse’s heart rate over a period of time so they have a baseline with which to compare future readings.

This will help owners determine whether something wrong is happening with their horse.

For instance, a horse entering an episode of laminitis may not show outward signs in the developmental stage but will show an increase in heart and respiratory rates.

You can take your horse’s heart rate from several places where you can feel an artery. However, this takes practice, so don’t wait until your horse is distressed to attempt to find the heart rate. Heart rate can be felt under the horse’s jaw or above or below the fetlock.

The most accurate and simplest way to determine heart rate is with the use of a stethoscope. The stethoscope is placed on the chest just behind the elbow.

You will hear a “lub” then a “dub”, this counts as one heart-beat. Count the number of heart beats for 30 seconds and multiply by two to find the heart beats per minute.

Gut Sounds (Borborygmi)

The intestines of horse are a place constant movement and motion, making sounds as they process what they eat. You can hear the gut sounds by placing your ear on your horse’s flank, though it is best to use a stethoscope.

You should learn what normal gut sounds are like in your horse, so you can detect changes that may indicate a problem. Loud or excessive sounds may be signs of inflammation of the intestines as in diarrhea.

If your horse’s gut is completely quiet along with other signs such as fever, or pawing, laying down a lot or loss of appetite, you should consult your veterinarian.

For a deeper dive into gut sounds, read our article “A Guide to Gut Sounds (Borborygmi)”

Capillary Refill Time (CRT)

Capillary refill time is the time it takes for color to return to a blanched area, such as a horse's gums, indicating blood circulation efficiency.

{Press on your horse’s gum with your finger, and count how many seconds it takes the blanched, whitish area you just pressed on to return pink.

Taking more than 3 seconds might indicate dehydration, illness or poor circulation. A veterinarian should be contacted.

How to Check CRT

1. Gently lift your horse’s upper lip.

2. Press a finger firmly on the gums until the area turns pale.

3. Release and count how many seconds it takes for the color to return.

What the Results Mean

• 1–2 seconds: Normal circulation

• More than 2–3 seconds: May suggest dehydration, poor perfusion, or early shock

• Over 3 seconds: Serious concern—contact a veterinarian immediately

CRT is fast, non-invasive, and should be part of every regular health check.

Mucous Membrane Color: What It Tells You About Your Horse’s Health

The gums are one of the most reliable places to check a horse’s mucous membranes. While other areas like the nostrils, eyelids, and genitals also have mucous tissue, the gums are easy to access and respond quickly to changes in health.

What to Look For

• Healthy: Moist and light pink. This is a sign of good circulation and hydration.

• Dry or tacky: Suggests dehydration and may require fluid support.

• Pale or white: Can indicate blood loss, anemia, or circulatory shock.

• Bright red or purple-red: May point to early shock or toxic exposure.

• Gray or blue: A critical warning sign of oxygen deprivation or severe shock—call a veterinarian immediately.

• Yellow (jaundiced): Often linked to liver dysfunction or hemolysis.

If your horse’s gums fall outside the normal range, don’t wait—vital signs often change rapidly. Call your vet for further evaluation. Regular checks help you spot issues early and respond before they escalate.

Common Mistakes When Taking Vital Signs

Even experienced horse owners can make small errors when checking vitals. Here are some of the most common mistakes to avoid:

• Removing the thermometer too early: If you’re using a glass thermometer, it needs at least three full minutes for an accurate reading. Taking it out too soon can give you a false result.

• Not knowing your horse’s baseline: Every horse is different. Without knowing what’s normal for your horse, it’s harder to recognize when something is off.

• Measuring after exertion or stress: Never take vital signs right after your horse has been running, is nervous, or excited. You’ll get artificially high values that don’t reflect true resting vitals.

• Letting the horse sniff your hand during respiration checks: Sniffing can elevate their breathing rate, especially if your hands smell like feed or treats. Always observe natural, calm breathing from a distance.

• Counting both heart sounds as separate beats: The “lub-dub” sound counts as one heartbeat—not two. Miscounting this can drastically inflate the recorded pulse rate.

Getting accurate readings starts with calm handling, good timing, and a clear understanding of what each measurement tells you.

Recap: Understanding Your Horse’s Vital Signs

Monitoring your horse’s vital signs is one of the most reliable ways to catch early signs of illness, dehydration, or stress. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• A normal horse heart rate ranges from 28 to 44 beats per minute in adults.

• Horse respiration rate should fall between 8 and 16 breaths per minute at rest.

• The average horse temperature is 99.5 to 101.5°F—anything higher or lower should be monitored.

• Capillary refill time (CRT) should always be under 2 seconds.

• Healthy mucous membranes are moist and light pink. Pale, red, blue, or yellow gums indicate possible problems.

Check vitals regularly, know your horse’s baseline, and use a consistent method. Small changes in any one area may mean it’s time to call your veterinarian.

Self Assessment Quiz

Multiple Choice Questions

Why is it important to establish a horse’s baseline vital signs?

a) To compare them with other horses

b) To detect early signs of illness or distress

c) To prepare for competitions

d) To reduce the need for veterinary visits

Which of the following is considered a normal resting respiration rate for a horse?

a) 4-6 breaths per minute

b) 8-16 breaths per minute

c) 20-30 breaths per minute

d) 40-50 breaths per minute

What should you do if your horse’s respiratory rate exceeds its heart rate?

a) Give the horse grain to calm it down

b) Keep riding at a slower pace

c) Stop immediately and allow the horse to rest

d) Increase the horse’s workload to improve circulation

What is the normal temperature range for a healthy horse?

a) 97.5 - 99.5°F

b) 99.5 - 101.5°F

c) 101.5 - 103.5°F

d) 103.5 - 105°F

How should a horse’s temperature be taken?

a) Using an ear thermometer

b) By placing a thermometer under the tongue

c) Rectally with a thermometer

d) By feeling the warmth of the muzzle

At what temperature should a veterinarian be called?

a) 101°F

b) 102°F

c) 103°F

d) 106°F

What is the normal heart rate for an adult horse at rest?

a) 10-20 BPM

b) 28-40 BPM

c) 50-70 BPM

d) 80-100 BPM

Where can a horse’s pulse be checked?

a) Under the jaw and near the fetlock

b) On the forehead

c) At the tip of the ears

d) Near the shoulder blade

What does an absence of gut sounds indicate?

a) Normal digestion

b) Excessive hydration

c) Potential colic or intestinal shutdown

d) Improved metabolism

What does a yellowish mucous membrane suggest?

a) Dehydration

b) Liver disease

c) Shock

d) Normal circulation

True or False

1. ___ Every horse has the same normal vital signs.

2. ___ The most accurate way to measure a horse’s heart rate is by using a stethoscope.

3. ___ A digital thermometer must be disinfected after use.

4. ___ An increase in heart rate can be caused by pain, fear, or illness.

5. ___ A horse’s mucous membranes should always be bright red.

6. ___ Capillary refill time should take more than 5 seconds in a healthy horse.

   
   

Short Answer Questions

1. Explain the significance of capillary refill time (CRT) and how to check it.

2. Why is it important to monitor a horse’s gut sounds, and what could a lack of gut sounds indicate?

3. Describe two common mistakes when taking a horse’s vital signs and how to avoid them.

   
   

Frequently Asked Questions About Horse Vital Signs

What tools do I need to check a horse’s vital signs?

To monitor your horse’s health effectively, you should have a digital rectal thermometer (or glass if preferred), a stethoscope to listen for heart and gut sounds, and a watch or timer to track pulse and respiration. A heart rate monitor can be useful during exercise, and a soft flashlight helps assess mucous membrane color. Keep these tools clean and stored in an easy-to-access first-aid kit.

Can stress affect a horse’s vital signs?

Absolutely. When a horse is stressed—whether due to trailering, vet visits, or a new environment—heart rate and respiration often increase. Body temperature can also rise slightly. To get an accurate reading, always check vital signs when the horse is calm, standing quietly, and has not just exercised. Otherwise, you may misinterpret normal stress responses as a health problem.

How often should I record my horse’s baseline vitals?

Ideally, take and log your horse’s resting vital signs once a month when they’re healthy and relaxed. This gives you a reference point if they ever seem off. Baselines vary from horse to horse, so knowing what’s normal for your horse is more important than memorizing general charts. This habit is especially helpful for senior horses or those in training or recovery.

Are foal vital signs different from adult horses?

Yes. Foals have much higher heart and respiration rates than adult horses because their metabolism is faster.

• Heart rate: 80–100 beats per minute

• Respiration rate: 20–40 breaths per minute

• Temperature: Up to 102.1°F can still be normalAlways monitor foals closely and call a vet if anything seems off—small issues can escalate quickly at this age.

  
  

What’s the most common mistake when taking a horse’s temperature?

One of the biggest mistakes is removing the thermometer too soon. A glass thermometer should stay in place for a full 3 minutes to give an accurate reading. Also, standing behind the horse or failing to use a string on the thermometer can lead to accidents or losing the device. Always stand to the side, use lubrication, and keep calm handling throughout.

Can weather affect a horse’s vital signs?

Yes. Hot weather can elevate heart rate, respiration, and even temperature, especially if the horse is not acclimated. In cold weather, vitals might stay in the normal range, but dehydration is harder to detect. Always assess more than one sign—check hydration, mucous membranes, and CRT—to get the full picture, regardless of season.