Adding salt to your pony's feed
June 2009
Q: I have heard people say that they add salt to their pony’s feeds. Why do they do this?
Why does my pony need salt?
Your pony needs salt in his diet to help maintain the balance of water in his diet. Water is important in your pony's body because it helps make sure his nerves and muscles are all in full working order!
When you've been out for a fast hack, done a hard jumping lesson or just ridden on a hot day, your pony will sweat. When he sweats, he loses water and some of the salt in his body. To make sure your pony's water balance stays OK, it's important you replace that salt that your pony has lost sweating, and make sure he stays hydrated by giving him access to plenty of water.
Water at Competitions
If you're going out to a competition, your pony will sweat on the lorry or trailer, so make sure you offer him a drink when you arrive at the competition.
Don't forget to offer him a drink at regular intervals during the day too - horses prefer room temperature water so try not to leave your water container in the sun on a hot day.
Addng Salt to Your Pony's Diet
If you're worried about your pony's salt levels, try giving him a salt lick his stable. That way he can help himself to as much or as little salt as he needs.
You only need to add salt to your pony's feed if he works very hard and spends a lot of time at competitions. Even then you only need to add a spoonful, he doesn't need much!
If you'd like some advice about putting salt in your pony's feed, or any other feed questions, please call the SPILLERS® Care-Line on 01908 226626 or click here to fill in an enquiry form.
View more items