Chloride (Cl)
AT A GLANCE:
Chloride is an electrolyte and represents the main anion for regulating the acid-base balance and the extra cellular osmotic power. Chloride is also stored in the large intestine.
Electrolytes and their roles
- Stimulation of thirst (rehydration/renal function)
- Regulation of nerve impulses (balance of electrical charges)
- Regulation of muscular contraction/relaxation cycles (lack of electrolytes =>myopathy)
- Involvement in blood coagulation
Pay attention, a single excessive dose may induce stomach ulcers.
A lack of muscle relaxation can be induced by a hydro-electrical unbalance.
Electrolytes and rehydration
Electrolytes loss in sweat in the healthy adult horse is essentially linked to the work load, temperature and humidity.
In extreme conditions a horse may lose up to 12 litres of sweat per hour. (Weigh your horse before and after effort!)
Sweat composition
- Sodium (3.1 g/l)
- Chloride (5.3 g/l)
- Potassium (1.6 g/l)
- plus calcium, magnesium, phosphate,…
Feed can compensate for some electrolytes losses
- Forage is rich in electrolytes
- A salt block furnishes an average of 10 g of salt per day (just enough to cover the needs for a horse at rest)
- Additional electrolytes must be given after heavy exercise or in hot conditions.
Related Products
Sport and racing
Breeding
TWYDIL® MINERAL COMPLEX
Daily supplementation providing bioavailable and palatable calcium.
Sport and racing
TWYDIL® ELECTROLYTES
Daily supplement for fast recuperation after intense exercise.
