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Treatment

There is no specific treatment for anhidrosis. Instead, the goal of treatment is to manage the condition and keep the horse as comfortable as possible. For an acute attack, the veterinarian will administer a fever-reducing agent such as flunixin meglumine (Banamine). Cold-water therapy should also be started to bring the horse’s body temperature down as quickly as possible. IV fluids and electrolytes may sometimes be given, depending on the state of the horse.

For continued management, moving the horse to a cooler environment will help. The addition of an air-conditioned stall, or at least a fan will greatly help, as will changing the horse’s exercise schedule to only occur during cooler parts of the day or in the evening. The addition of electrolytes to the water during the summer will help as well, in addition to body clipping the horse.

Prevention

True anhidrosis cannot be prevented. The best way to prevent future attacks is to move the horse to a cooler environment.