Electrolytes for horses

What are electrolytes

Electrolytes are minerals that are found in the form of ions in body fluids. The most important ones in horses are:

Sodium (Na)

Chloride (Cl)

Potassium (K)

Magnesium (Mg)

Calcium (Ca)

These substances ensure the proper functioning of muscles, nerves, heart and maintain the balance of fluids in the body.

Why do horses need electrolytes

Horses sweat significantly more than most animals. Their sweat contains a high amount of minerals.

Electrolytes are important for:

maintaining hydration

proper muscle and nerve function

prevention of muscle cramps

regulation of body temperature

faster recovery from exercise

A lack of electrolytes can lead to:

fatigue

poor performance

dehydration

muscle cramps

reduced appetite

When to supplement electrolytes

during intensive work or training

in hot and humid weather

during long-term transport

during races and competitions

for diseases associated with sweating or diarrhea

in horses that sweat heavily even with moderate work

How electrolytes are used

Methods of administration

Feed powder

most common method

easy dosage

Soluble in water

quick replenishment

necessary to also provide clean water without electrolytes

Pastes and gels

suitable for competitions and transport

precise dosage

Electrolyte licks

supplementary solution

do not always ensure sufficient intake

Types of electrolytes for horses
1. Basic electrolytes

Mainly contain:

sodium

chloride

potassium

Advantages:

quick replenishment of losses

suitable for short-term stress

Disadvantages:

do not contain all necessary minerals

less suitable for long-term stress

2. Complex electrolytes

Also contain:

magnesium

calcium

sometimes vitamins B and C

Advantages:

comprehensive support of the body

suitable for sports horses

Disadvantages:

higher price

risk of overdose if dosage is incorrect

3. Sugar-free electrolytes

Designed for:

horses with EMS

horses prone to laminitis

Advantages:

safe for metabolically sensitive horses

Disadvantages:

less palatable

4. Electrolytes with sugars (glucose, dextrose)

Advantages:

better palatability

fast absorption

Disadvantages:

not suitable for horses with metabolic disorders

Advantages of using electrolytes

prevention of dehydration

improvement of performance

faster regeneration

prevention of muscle problems

support of appetite

Disadvantages and risks

administration without enough water → risk of dehydration

overdose of sodium or potassium

inappropriate composition for a specific horse

long-term administration without need

How to choose the right electrolytes
1. By type of horse

recreational horse → basic electrolytes only in hot weather

sport horse → complex electrolytes

metabolically sensitive horse → sugar-free

2. By load

short and moderate → basic

long and intensive → complex

3. By form of administration

at home → powder for feed

racing environment → paste

4. By composition

high sodium and chloride content

adequate potassium content

without unnecessary dyes and flavors

Correct dosage (indicative)

moderate load / heat: 20–30 g per day

intensive work / competitions: 40–60 g per day

always according to manufacturer's recommendations

⚠️ Never administer electrolytes without secure access to clean water.

Most common mistakes

administering electrolytes without sweating

replacing salt with electrolytes

dosing too high

combining multiple electrolyte preparations

ignoring the individual needs of the horse

The difference between salt and electrolytes

Salt = base (sodium + chloride) – daily

Electrolytes = supplement during increased exercise

Salt should be available to the horse at all times, electrolytes are only given as needed.

Electrolytes are an integral part of caring for horses under exercise, especially in hot weather. Properly selected and judiciously used electrolytes help maintain hydration, performance, muscle health and overall well-being of the horse. The key is the right choice, dosage and always enough water.