Companion Animal Welfare

Horse Electrolyte and Hydration Welfare

Electrolyte balance and hydration are critical welfare concerns for horses particularly during exercise, heat and illness.

Key Facts

Horses can lose 15-20 litres of sweat per hour in hard exercise in hot conditions
Sweat contains electrolytes including sodium, chloride and potassium lost with fluid
Dehydration above 5% body weight affects performance and welfare significantly
Electrolyte supplements encourage drinking and replace losses during intense work
Clean water access at all times is a fundamental welfare requirement for all horses

Welfare Considerations

Dehydration and electrolyte imbalance cause progressive welfare harm during exercise and illness. Ensuring constant clean water access, appropriate electrolyte supplementation during work and monitoring hydration status are fundamental welfare management responsibilities.

What You Can Do

Ensure constant access to clean, fresh water for all horses at all times
Provide appropriate electrolyte supplementation for horses in hard work or hot conditions
Monitor horses for dehydration using skin tent test and gum tackiness during illness or intense work