Electrolytes are the salts, mainly sodium, chloride and potassium, that a horse loses in its sweat. After heavy sweating, in hot weather, on long rides, at competitions or during travel, you can replace them with an electrolyte product. This collection contains the Excellent Horse electrolytes as a liquid (1 litre), powder (1 and 2.5 kilos) and pellets (1 kilo).
When does your horse need them?
Horse sweat contains relatively a lot of salt, and fluid is lost along with the salt. A horse that does an hour of light work and barely gets wet usually has enough with a salt lick or salt in its ration. It is different for a horse that comes back soaked with sweat, a horse that competes several days in a row or makes a long journey in the trailer, or in hot and humid weather. If in doubt, consult your vet or a nutrition adviser.
Liquid, powder or pellets?
| Form | How to give it | Handy if |
|---|---|---|
| Liquid, 1 l | Mixed into the feed, according to the label | You want to dose quickly and precisely |
| Powder, 1 or 2.5 kg | Mixed into damp feed | You feed several horses or a whole season |
| Pellets, 1 kg | Over the hard feed | Your horse leaves powder untouched |
Points to note
Make sure your horse always has access to fresh, clean water; electrolytes without water do not help. If you mix your product into the drinking water, also put out a bucket of plain water, so your horse can choose. Stick to the amount on the pack and do not give more than necessary. If your horse drinks poorly, is sluggish or does not recover after exercise, call in your vet.
These products belong with horse supplements. Also see all electrolytes and vitamins and minerals, and for enough water in the stable and field, drinkers.
Frequently asked questions
Does every sport horse need electrolytes?
No. A horse that sweats little and has a salt lick usually manages without. Topping up makes sense after heavy sweating or several hard days in a row.
Do I give electrolytes before or after exercise?
Follow the directions on the label. Even more important is that your horse drinks well afterwards.
Isn't a salt lick enough?
For a horse in light work, often yes. With heavy sweating, a horse usually does not take in salt from a lick quickly enough to replace what it has lost.