Salt consumption and water consumption go hand in hand.
Did you know that a standard 1000lb horses salt requirement is 2oz a day? That is pretty significant if you think about it.
Electrolytes are naturally in forage and feed, but the salt is too low to meet a horse’s daily salt requirements. Salt is also in supplemental electrolytes but again, not typically high enough to meet daily requirements, especially if they’re working.  Salt is especially important in hot summer months or the extreme cold of winter months. Think about it, if the only water source they have in the winter is super cold why would they want to drink? Encouragement is critical for that reason and helps reduce the risk of impaction colic.
Another fun fact that I am sure you are aware of is that horses are smooth tongue animals. Much different than a cow or a cat, that have coarse tongues. So, if their only source of salt is in a block form, they generally will not be able to consume enough to satisfy their requirements. Ever see a horse bite at a salt block?? If that is their only source of salt, they are doing that because they are frustrated, they can’t get enough.  So, we challenge you….. if you only provide a salt block for your horse, try licking it enough to get 2oz off of it!
Disclaimer: It’s impossible!
But, seriously, in all honestly please don’t try it! 🙂
A tablespoon of loose feed grade salt twice daily in their feed is a great way to encourage them to drink ample amounts of water.
It’s also an extremely low-cost addition with HUGE benefits!
If you are still concerned about water consumption after adding in salt you can also add in electrolytes on top of that.  Just make sure sugar isn’t a main ingredient in your electrolyte.  It also helps if the electrolytes are to be fed with the grain and not in the water. If your horse isn’t drinking water, what good does an electrolyte do if it’s in the water?
In conclusion, salt blocks are great to have as an option for your horse, while also providing loose salt to help them meet their salt requirements.
Add salt FIRST, no matter the time of the year or temperature, then additional electrolytes can be added if needed.