Salt Blocks & Lick Tubs: Free Access to Salt
Salt Blocks & Lick Tubs let your horse take in salt and minerals as and when it needs them. Alongside classic salt licks made from natural rock salt or Himalayan salt, you will find mineral licks, flavoured licks and lick tubs with herbs. Suitable salt block holders keep the block clean, dry and securely in place in the stable or field shelter.
Why salt matters so much
Horses lose a lot of sodium through sweat, and hay and grass supply very little of it. A salt lick that is always within reach is therefore part of the basic equipment of every horse stable. In summer and during heavy training, the requirement rises noticeably. Mineral licks provide trace elements as well, but they do not replace a mineral feed if your horse has higher needs. Make sure fresh water is always close by.
Something to do and a tidy stable
Flavoured licks and lick tubs offer enrichment as well as salt. Stabled horses in particular enjoy working on a Likit or licking at a tub when they spend longer periods indoors. The right holder keeps the block at a sensible height, protects it from dirt and makes sure nothing lies on the floor. That way the block lasts longer and your horse can reach it at any time.
Frequently asked questions
Does my horse need a salt lick if it gets a mineral feed?
Yes, in most cases it does. Mineral feeds often contain little sodium, and your horse covers its salt requirement best by itself at the lick. The two complement each other well.
Can a horse lick too much salt?
Healthy horses with free access to water generally regulate their salt intake themselves. If you notice your horse licking unusually often, it may point to boredom or a deficiency. In that case it is worth talking to your vet.
Where is the best place to hang a salt lick?
A dry spot at head height works well, not directly above feed or water. This keeps the block clean and stops salty drips from landing in the manger. In an open barn, a covered area is the best choice.
Salt blocks and lick tubs for stable and field
For the daily salt supply, Salt Blocks made from rock salt, Himalayan salt or with added minerals are the simplest solution, because your horse takes exactly as much as it needs. Flavoured versions such as apple or muesli add a little variety too. If you also want to give your horse something to do in the stable, Lick Tubs with herbs and lick mats keep it occupied for longer. To keep blocks clean and secure on the wall, there is a matching Salt Block Holder in plastic or galvanised metal for round and square shapes. Always place the block near fresh water, because salt makes horses thirsty.