The effect of oral sodium acetate administration on plasma acetate concentration and acid-base state in horses

Amanda Waller and Michael I Lindinger

Dept. of Human Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada

author email corresponding author email

Acta Veterinaria Scandinavica 2007, 49:38doi:10.1186/1751-0147-49-38


Published:	20 December 2007

Abstract

Aim

Sodium acetate (NaAcetate) has received some attention as an alkalinizing agent and possible alternative energy source for the horse, however the effects of oral administration remain largely unknown. The present study used the physicochemical approach to characterize the changes in acid-base status occurring after oral NaAcetate/acetic acid (NAA) administration in horses.

Methods

Jugular venous blood was sampled from 9 exercise-conditioned horses on 2 separate occasions, at rest and for 24 h following a competition exercise test (CET) designed to simulate the speed and endurance test of 3-day event. Immediately after the CETs horses were allowed water ad libitum and either: 1) 8 L of a hypertonic NaAcetate/acetic acid solution via nasogastric tube followed by a typical hay/grain meal (NAA trial); or 2) a hay/grain meal alone (Control trial).

Results

Oral NAA resulted in a profound plasma alkalosis marked by decreased plasma [H⁺] and increased plasma [TCO₂] and [HCO₃^-] compared to Control. The primary contributor to the plasma alkalosis was an increased [SID], as a result of increased plasma [Na⁺] and decreased plasma [Cl^-]. An increased [A_tot], due to increased [PP] and a sustained increase in plasma [acetate], contributed a minor acidifying effect.

Conclusion

It is concluded that oral NaAcetate could be used as both an alkalinizing agent and an alternative energy source in the horse.