Equine Salt & Electrolyte Calculator
Owner-safe calculator for horse salt and electrolytes. Enter weight, workload, and weather to get daily grams, teaspoons/tablespoons, simple mixing ratios, and a printable 7-day plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much salt should a 500 kg (1,100 lb) horse get per day?
Most adult horses need about 25–35 g of plain salt (sodium chloride) daily at rest. In hot/humid weather or with moderate–hard work, this can rise to 50–75 g. Use the calculator for exact grams and tsp/tbsp by weight and workload.
When do I add an equine electrolyte instead of just salt?
Use electrolytes when sweat losses are high: hard work, heat waves, long rides/hauls, or diarrhea per your vet. Electrolytes replace sodium, chloride, potassium (and some magnesium); plain salt alone may not fully cover sweat losses in these cases.
Do I need to offer plain water alongside electrolyte water?
Yes. Always offer unlimited plain water whenever you provide electrolyte water or top-dress feed with electrolytes. Some horses won’t drink electrolyte water—plain water prevents dehydration.
Are salt blocks enough for horses?
Blocks can help, but many horses won’t lick enough to meet daily needs, especially in heat or work. Providing loose salt free-choice—or top-dressing measured salt—helps ensure intake targets are met.
What are safe mixing ratios for electrolytes?
Follow the product label. As a general guide, mix per label into 4–8 L (1–2 gal) of water or top-dress on a small wet feed. Start with lower palatability and increase gradually. Always keep plain water available.
Can too much salt or electrolytes cause problems?
Excess without adequate water access may risk dehydration or GI upset. Horses with kidney disease, uncontrolled diarrhea, or certain medications need veterinary guidance. When in doubt, call your vet.
How should I adjust for hauling or show days?
Offer loose salt daily, pre-event small electrolyte dose, and plan water at each stop. Flavor water at home and on the road if needed. Our calculator produces a 7-day plan you can print for travel.
Does EMS or PPID change salt and electrolyte recommendations?
Daily salt targets are similar, but deliver via low-NSC carriers (no sugary mixes). Monitor hydration closely in hot weather and during medication changes; consult your vet for individualized plans.
What about seniors or horses with poor dentition?
Use loose salt and consider mash or soaked pellets/cubes to deliver measured amounts. Ensure frequent, easy access to fresh water and monitor intake, manure, and attitude.