The Different Types of Electrolytes For Horses
Electrolytes are a staple in every equine feed room, but with so many to choose from, it can quickly become overwhelming on what suits your horse best! There are many components to consider from its ingredients to its form! As the summer months in particular quickly approach, now is the perfect time to get prepared so that you can best protect your horses from the dangers of dehydration.
When and why do I need an electrolyte?
Unlike humans, horses don’t have a conscience per se telling them to drink water simply because they haven’t today! Rather, they rely on their thirst reflex, which is controlled by their body fluid and blood balance of salts and electrolytes. When this balance becomes less than optimal, the thirst reflex is shut off to prevent further dilution of the salt levels. When this balance is, however, ideal, our horses' thirst reflex functions as desired, with hydration levels maintained. As our horses sweat is hypertonic (highly concentrated in salt), the balance of electrolytes is impaired every time they sweat, whether that be due to exercise, or simply it has been a hot day!
Horses should be supplied an electrolyte every time they sweat!
Ingredients
Standard electrolyte products will contain the key 5 – Sodium, Chloride, Potassium, Calcium and Magnesium. Each of these nutrients serve functions to assist in maintaining our horses' salt levels, encouraging their thirst reflex.
· Sodium – Salt, regulates thirst, maintains hydration and fluid volume.
· Chloride – Salt, alongside Sodium, regulates fluid as well as pH balance
· Potassium – Electrolyte, maintains cell function and used by muscles for functioning processes
· Calcium – Electrolyte, also used by muscles to aid in contraction, and for nerve function
· Magnesium – Electrolyte, used to oppose calcium in muscle relaxation, and for nerve function
Premium Electrolytes, such as Ranvet’s Salkavite, will go one step further to include additional nutrients that are lost to sweat and support the horse’s recovery needs. These ingredients include B-Group Vitamins, which are water soluble and require daily replenishment.
· B-Group Vitamins - metabolism of energy, fats and amino acids, as well as blood cell formation and appetite stimulation.
· Antioxidants – such as Vitamin E, can assist with muscle and tissue recovery by reducing Free-radicals produced by exercise
· Bicarbonate – assist in controlling pH balance
Different types of electrolyte administration:
Electrolytes can take many forms and be used in various ways!
· Powders; can often be added into feed or water. Easy for daily administration and a cost-effective approach when compared with single dose measures such as pastes.
· Pastes; convenient for travel. Can act as an additional source to the daily provision after hard conditions. Handy for direct administration for horses who may be fussy, or off their feed or water.
· Liquids; can be used similarly to powders in most cases or administered orally.
When choosing an electrolyte, there can be much to consider! Ranvet’s Salkavite is Australia’s Number 1 equine electrolyte and is available now from your local EQ Saddlery.
