Any situation that causes the horse to sweat, such as exercise, can cause electrolyte reserves to be depleted and trigger the need for additional supplementation.

Does my horse need electrolyte supplementation this summer?

Adequate hydration is critically important, particularly during the hotter months. What role do electrolytes play, and how do you know if your horse needs an electrolyte supplement?

Summer has arrived! It’s a season many of us look forward to, as longer, warmer days set the scene for fun in the sun with our four-legged friends. However, the summer months do present their own set of challenges when caring for our horses; maintaining adequate hydration and minimising electrolyte loss are two of the most important considerations when preparing for warmer weather.

In terms of horses and hydration, it’s important to remember:

•    Horses do not naturally have a strong thirst drive and will often spend only a few minutes each day drinking water — so make sure water sources are clean, fresh, easily accessible and appealing!
•    Water makes up approximately 65-75% of a horse’s body weight — and the consequences of dehydration range from appetite loss, lethargy and poor performance in mild cases, to major impacts on vital organs such as kidney failure, and death in severe cases.
•    Horses can consume up to 50 litres of water per day — and are likely to drink twice as much water if the water is cool than when its temperature is warmer than 30 degrees. Be sure to position water troughs and tubs in the shade where possible.
•    It’s not just about water; balanced electrolyte levels are important. The correct balance of electrolytes (i.e. minerals that conduct electricity when dissolved in water) is vital for healthy, normal body function.

Adequate hydration, electrolyte balance and replenishment are the first principles of maintaining optimum health during the summer months.

So when does my horse need electrolyte supplementation?

When your horse sweats due to travel, exercise and/or the heat, electrolytes are lost and this can trigger the need for supplementation.

In the December issue of Equestrian Life magazine, we delve into the importance of hydration — covering everything from what electrolytes actually are, through to what roles the various minerals play, when electrolytes should be fed, and how to choose the correct supplement for your horse’s needs.

You can read the full article here.

Our friends at Virbac have a range of electrolyte products to help keep your horse hydrated this summer, including:

•    Humidimix — A daily powder that is perfect for horses that are sweating a lot over summer
•    Recharge — A palatable liquid that can be added to water and is ideal for those situations where you need to rapidly restore depleted electrolyte levels and stimulate your horse’s natural thirst mechanism
•    Bectyl Paste — A convenient paste to have on hand when electrolytes levels need to be restored quickly

Virbac’s range of electrolyte products, L-R: Bectyl Paste, Humidimix and Recharge.

Handy tip — Replenish electrolytes and keep your horse cool with these fun treats!

You will need:
One plastic container per horse
Recharge 1 litre
Carrots and/or apples
Water

Method:
1. Dice the carrots and apples and place into containers
2. Measure out one dose of Recharge per container as per the recommended rate and pour over
3. Top up with enough water to cover the treats without over flowing
4. Place in freezer and leave to set overnight