Short Communication: The effect of exercise on salt intake by horses

Salt is a nutritional requirement for horses. The behavior patterns and physiological controls of salt (NaCl) intake were investigated. Camera traps were used to record visits to a salt block in a herd of pleasure horses of various breeds. There was a relation between the hours the horses were ridden per week and the number of times they licked salt over a 2-week period. The horses responded to exercise with an increase in salt intake. Owners should be aware that horses should have access to a salt block in order to meet the animals' physiological needs.