When it’s time to sweat, Electrolytes must come to the rescue!
With record temperatures and high humidity plaguing our horses, care must be taken to keep your horse hydrated and healthy. That is when giving your horse Electrolytes is essential.
Sodium, chloride, potassium and magnesium are the primary electrolytes (ions) needed by a working horse. When ions are balanced, they promote water consumption and retention, which can eliminate dehydration and other health problems. Electrolytes will keep your horse well on those super hot days.
A good sugar free electrolyte ensures a balanced blood chemistry level and does not burn or cause hind-gut discomfort. Watch out for electrolytes containing sodium chloride which immediately oxidizes in the hind-gut and creates sodium ions, which the horse cannot stop from being absorbed into the blood. If this should happen, then the sodium would replace potassium at the cellular level and hinder nutrient transfer.
KAM Daily Electrolytes were created with the idea of making all the ingredients available to the horse immediately. So, when looking for electrolytes make sure this is one of the things you look for. You also want to ensure a balanced blood chemistry level, by addressing potassium, sodium, magnesium and calcium blood levels. Some signs of times you might want to use electrolytes are when tying-up, muscle cramping, anhydrous, synchronous diaphragmatic flutter or diarrhea present themselves.
This tip was brought to you by KAM Animal Services, home of KAM’s “Equine Learning Circle” FREE webinars, which will take place twice a month. Go to www.kamanimalservices.com to sign up for the next webinar. Upcoming webinars include “Get It in Writing” on May 16 and “Electrolytes, Detoxing and First Aid” on June 13. These webinars will conclude with a question and answer session, so be ready with your questions!