When Your Horse Sweats, They’re Losing More Than Water

Hydration is essential—but many riders don’t realize how fast a horse can tip into electrolyte imbalance. This happens during trailering, training, long rides, or even in the stall under stress. This Real Rider Resource gives you the tools to spot it early and treat it right.

What Are Electrolytes—and Why Do Horses Need Them?

Electrolytes are charged minerals that regulate:

• Muscle contraction
• Nerve function
• Hydration at the cellular level
• Heart rhythm
• Recovery and thermoregulation

What Causes Electrolyte Loss?

• Heavy sweating (even in light work)
• Trailering or travel-related stress
• Illness, fever, or diarrhea
• Extended performance or long rides
• Insufficient salt or poor water intake

Signs Your Horse May Be Low on Electrolytes

• Tucked-up or drawn flanks
• Slow capillary refill or skin tenting
• Dull or lethargic behavior
• Refusal to eat or drink
• Dark urine or dry gums
• Poor recovery after work

Pro tip: Try the pinch test. Skin should snap back within 1–2 seconds. If not, dehydration may be present.

How to Restore Electrolyte Balance (Smart + Safe)

Step 1: Know When to Supplement

• In hot or humid weather
• After hard rides or long trail days
• During multi-day events
• With horses that sweat heavily or tie up

Step 2: Choose the Right Format

• Hydro-Lyte™ with GastroCell – Gut + skin support
• Paste electrolytes – Fast relief but short-lasting
• Free-choice salt – Better than nothing, not always enough
• Daily feed additives – Great for background support

Step 3: Pair With Cooling & Circulation

• Use IceBath™ Cooling Body Wash after exercise
• Apply Draw It Out® Gel to legs to support circulation
• Walk the horse out fully before feeding or blanketing

Hydro-Lyte™ with GastroCell: Smarter Electrolyte Recovery

• Sugar-free and safe for IR/Cushings horses
• Supports both hydration and digestive resilience
• Absorbs through skin and gut
• Use in water, feed, or sponge-on format

Real Riders Don’t Just Hydrate—They Replenish

Don’t wait for dehydration to derail your ride. Whether you’re schooling, hauling, or showing, electrolyte loss is real—and recovery starts with awareness.

“Because when the ride’s done, the real care begins.”