Dehydration in horses advices and the best online shopping? According to the Merck Vet Manual, horses most often become deficient in these 12 essential minerals and vitamins. Also listed are the symptoms horses may exhibit when deficient in each. Salt: Deficiency may cause pica, weight loss, tiring easily, dehydration, and muscle spasms. Phosphorous: Deficiency may cause pica, muscle weakness, and trembling. Potassium: Deficiency may cause muscle weakness, fatigue, and exercise intolerance. Magnesium: Deficiency may cause nervousness, excitability, or muscle tremors. Zinc: Deficiency may cause low insulin, insulin resistance, dull coat, poor hoof, or bone diseases. Iron: Deficiency may cause anemia.
According to this article by Kentucky Equine Research, sweat is predominantly made of sodium, chloride, and potassium, with other electrolytes like magnesium and calcium present in smaller amounts. The amount of electrolytes a horse loses through sweat depends on heat, humidity, and how hard and long a horse is worked. Electrolytes are also lost through urine and feces, particularly diarrhea. When large amounts are lost, they need to be replaced to help horses rehydrate and recover. See even more details on salt lick for horses.
Dressing in layers is essential for any rider venturing out in chilly weather. Layers can be removed or added as the day warms or as temperatures dip, and will help you have a comfortable ride. Wear sweat-wicking material that keeps your skin dry, and warm winter boots that slide easily out of the stirrups. Make sure to cover your hands, head, and face to limit exposure. Wearing reflective gear on your clothing is also a smart idea to help you stay visible, especially if you find yourself out after sunset. And let’s not forget your equine friend! There are reflective collars, chest plates and leg bands available for horses. And if your horse is used to hunkering down in a warm stall, she might also appreciate a rump rug or quarter sheet to stay comfortable on the trail.
Redmond Rock and Himalayan rock are both solid, unrefined sea salt rocks. Both are mined deep in the earth and contain electrolytes and a plethora of beneficial trace minerals for horses. Both are natural horse salt licks and better options than a manmade pressed block. So is Redmond Rock salt a better choice than a Himalayan rock? Yes, we think so! Here’s why: 100% of Redmond sea salt rock is mined from our Jurassic Period mineral deposit in Central Utah and packaged right here in the USA. Redmond Rock contains around 93% salt and 7% natural mineral content compared to 3% mineral content of most Pakistani-mined Himalayan rock.
Keep tubs clean. Horses want fresh, clean water. Clear your horse’s water container of debris and change water frequently. If you’re using a bucket, rinse and wipe it out daily. Troughs and large containers should be cleaned weekly with a bristle brush to clear algae and contaminants. We realize a horse that’s not drinking is an immense concern. That’s why we created Redmond Rein Water. It’s an all-natural equine electrolyte drink mix that stirs easily into a water bucket and appeals to horses’ taste for salt. Find more info on loose minerals for horses.