What are electrolytes?
Electrolytes are important salts and minerals that help with many different important bodily functions from digestion, urine production, and muscle contraction. These can be lost through sweat, urine and droppings. A significant loss of electrolytes can cause dehydration, impaired performance and potentially lead to the development of azoturia which are painful muscle cramps.
Electrolyte is lost considerable more during competition and training, and especially during hot weather whether your horse is in work or not.
Signs of electrolyte loss in horses include:
- Dull coat and eyes
- Lethargy and/or poor performance
- Dark urine
Why use electrolytes supplements?
Electrolyte supplements are great not only after hard exercise or during hot weather, but also for daily maintenance to help your horse stay hydrated and that their body continues normal function. While horses can't store excess electrolytes, regular supplementation assists in stabilising your horse's levels.
When supplementing ensure to follow manufacturer’s recommendations on use and dose. If adding electrolytes to water, check that your horse doesn’t mind the taste and offer a bucket of plain water as well.
Providing electrolyte supplements everyday helps:
- Keep your horse hydrated
- Preserves the bodies cells
- Maintains a healthy acid-base
- Helps maintain muscle function
