Re: Electrolyte question - answer

[CMKSAGEHIL <CMKSAGEHIL@aol.com>]

In a message dated 98-03-27 15:01:24 EST, wendy@wendy.cnd.hp.com writes:

<< I do not feed electrolytes as a part of daily rations.  
  >>

Wendy is right on here.  Feeding daily electrolytes as part of the ration does
not allow the horse to "train" his kidneys and sweat glands to become
efficient in conserving electrolytes.  Electrolytes are kept in balance in the
body and cannot be stored.  Excesses are eliminated.  In training, the horse's
body "learns" to be more conservative (sweat becomes more dilute and kidneys
become more efficient) if the horse is pushed toward depletion and then
allowed to restock.  Potassium in plentiful in most roughages, and a free-
choice salt source in the pen at home is sufficient for sodium and chloride.

Heidi Smith, DVM--Sagehill Arabians (Oregon)