Metallic electrolyte mineral nutrient it is the principal intracellular cation (positive ion) critical for maintaining the osmotic balance and flow of water into and out of cells, acid base balance and transmission of electrical impulses in nerves. Around 75% of body Potassium is found in muscle, 5% in bone and 5% in the blood and skin.
Good dietary sources of Potassium are forage feeds, pasture, and hay. Grains are lower in Potassium which may be supplemented when sweat losses are high. Inorganic sources used in supplements include Potassium Chloride and Potassium Carbonate. Dietary Potassium is normally adequate to meet normal demands except when sweating is heavy when supplementation may be required. Potassium deficient horses generally go off their feed until potassium levels are restored. Horses with diarrhoea may lose substantial amounts of potassium and require replacement therapy either orally or with high potassium intravenous fluids. Potassium is excreted through the kidneys and provided water intake is unrestricted, excess dietary Potassium can be excreted in the urine.