What are electrolytes?

Electrolytes are minerals that carry positive or negative charges.  When they are dissolved in blood or tissues of the body and bind with another ion, they can make a ‘salt’.  The main electrolytes are sodium, chloride, potassium, magnesium and calcium.  A horse’s body cannot retain water without the presence of electrolytes and so the electrolytes help to preserve the correct balance of fluids in the body’s cells. Electrolytes are also involved in muscle function and the processing of wastes. Electrolytes can be lost through sweat, urine and faeces and deficiencies can cause dehydration, impaired performance and may exacerbate problems such as azoturia (a muscle disorder).  Visible signs of deficiencies can include a dull coat, sunken eyes, listlessnessand dark urine.  

When does a horse need extra electrolytes?

Sodium Chloride (salt) should be available at all times in the form of a salt block and intake should be monitored, especially in hot weather. Alternatively, some people add salt to their horse’s diet each day. 

However, during periods of competition and training, electrolyte losses can massively increase, especially during hot weather. Supplementary electrolytes can be added to water or if the horse is a poor drinker or there simply is no opportunity to replace fluid losses, electrolytes can be fed to the horse instead.

As a general rule, supplementary electrolytes should be given:

•             In situations of hard work and hot and/or humid weather.

•             When the horse is under some kind of unusual stress.

•             When the horse is sweating profusely.

•             When the horse is working harder or longer than he is used to.

Electrolytes should be given according to the instructions on the electrolyte product that you purchase- feeding recommendations will vary depending on the reason why you’re feeding your horse electrolytes. Horses who are given electrolytes need to be consuming adequate water.