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ES Epigenetics: equine nutrition programs the foal of the future.
June 13, 2025
Summer days call for more than just an appropriate ration. The role of water and electrolytes is often underestimated, even though these very factors are essential to your horse's health and performance.
Water is the most important nutrient for a horse: it regulates body temperature, supports digestion and transports nutrients. A 500 kg horse normally drinks 25-40 liters per day. In warm weather and increased sweating, this can increase to 50-60 liters. Insufficient water intake can lead to dehydration, intestinal problems and loss of performance.
Sweat consists not only of water, but also contains electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, chlorine and magnesium. These minerals regulate muscle function, nerve conduction and fluid balance in the body. Loss of electrolytes through sweating without supplementation can lead to muscle tremors, fatigue and even colic.
Many horses receive only water and roughage, but this is insufficient when sweating intensively. Adding salt (NaCl) to the ration is a basic requirement because horses do not always absorb it themselves in sufficient amounts. For horses that sweat a lot or for prolonged periods, a supplemental electrolyte mixture containing sodium, potassium and magnesium can be valuable.
Always provide fresh, clean water, preferably in several places if your horse is in a large pasture.
Offer salt ad libitum in the form of a lick or mixed with the feed.
In hot weather, watch for signs of dehydration: sticky mucous membranes, slow skin folding and decreased appetite.
Give electrolyte mixtures only to horses that really need them - excess can also become a problem.
Water and electrolytes are the silent forces behind a healthy horse in summer. Those who pay attention to them lay the foundation for performance as well as well-being, even on hot days.