What it does
Sodium is a macromineral [1]. Horses' sodium and chloride needs are usually discussed, and met, as salt [2].
Sources and losses
Forages contain little sodium and most concentrates don't supply enough, which is why free-choice salt is recommended [2]. Sweat replacement per litre of sweat is about 3.45 g sodium, 5.5 g chloride and 2 g potassium [2].
Deficiency
Signs of salt deficiency are most likely in horses worked hard in hot weather or fed salt-deficient rations [2].
Sources
- 1. Arispe S, Filley S. Understanding your forage test results (EM 8801). Oregon State University Extension Service. Revised October 2020, reviewed 2023. https://extension.oregonstate.edu/catalog/em-8801-understanding-your-forage-test-results (accessed 2026-11-07)
- 2. Liburt NR (peer reviewed by Boyle AG). Nutritional Requirements of Horses and Other Equids. MSD Veterinary Manual, Professional Version. Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ. Last full review February 2026. https://www.msdvetmanual.com/management-and-nutrition/nutrition-horses/nutritional-requirements-of-horses (accessed 2026-11-07)
Last edited 7 Nov 2026, 1:48 am