The
horse’s requirement for supplemental electrolytes
becomes necessary when they cannot replace electrolyte loss.
For the same reason we drink ‘Gatorade’ or other
sport electrolyte drinks, a horse also needs extra electrolytes
not provided in their feed. Some special applications are
endurance horses, 3-day eventing and horses receiving Lasix
(Furosemide).
Endurance horses compete in very strenuous prolonged exercise
often resulting in extreme sweat loss. Endurance horses
show profound and persistent deficiencies in calcium, bicarbonate,
chloride, potassium, and sometimes magnesium after completion
of the ride. Horses competing in 3-day eventing have similar
levels of sweat loss. Proper electrolyte supplementation
is not only important for the horse’s performance
during the ride but the recovery period that could be as
long as three days.
Horse’s treated with Lasix (Furosemide) are a special
concern. Lasix is a diuretic which can increase dehydration
if electrolytes are not provided. Most concerning is Lasix
causes massive and immediate loss of potassium, a key electrolyte
for muscle function. Other electrolytes, e.g. calcium and
magnesium, are also lost to a lesser degree, but still critically
low. Some horse’s develop ‘Thumps’ (Synchronous
Diaphragmatic Flutter) when on the drug as well as being
dehydrated. Consult with your veterinarian for his recommendation
for electrolyte supplementation if your horse is using Lasix.
