Electrolytes for Colic

Electrolytes are essential mineral salts necessary for many vital body functions, and they cannot be stored in the body. Normally, sufficient amounts of electrolytes are obtained from feed. However, a horse cannot always replace electrolytes naturally when they are rapidly depleted through excessive sweating or the stress of illness. In these cases, supplementation becomes necessary.

  1. Smartlytes

    • Available in a sugar-free, cherry-flavored powder, Smartlytes contains the proper balance of sodium chloride, or salt, and Trimethylglycine to keep cells functioning properly. It is available in a 28-day supply for $7.85; a 56-day supply for $15.70; and a 112-day supply for $28.95.

    Finish Line

    • Finish Line combines electrolytes with trace minerals in an apple-flavored, sugar-free, dye-free formula. It is available in a 5-lb. bucket for $12.95; a 15-lb. bucket for $29.95; and a 30-lb. bucket for $51.95. When activity and location demand a daily maintenance supply of electrolytes, Finish Line costs 30 cents a day.

    Stress-Dex

    • Stress-Dex combines calcium, phosphorous, salt, and potassium in an orange-flavored electrolyte powder. It's available in 4-lb., 7-lb., 12-lb., and 20-lb. buckets ranging from $10.95 to $44.95.

    Platform Complete

    • This is the only electrolyte formula available in pellet form. It contains only those vital nutrients and amino acids that are lost when a horse is under stress from competition or illness. Platform Complete is available as a maintenance product for 56 cents a day or in a 2.8-lb. bucket for $19.95.