Traditional salt licks
Licks originally referred to mineral and/or salt licks that you would hang up in the stall of the horse or lay in the trough. These licks are robust blocks of salt or other minerals that the horse can use whenever they feel the need to. Horses, unlike humans are well aware of their needs for salt and minerals and are able to regulate the intake themselves.
Some horses however are a little over indulgent, either because they like the taste too much or because they are bored and the licking gives them something to do. In those cases, consider presenting the licks for shorter period of times, for example having it in the stable every second day or only under supervision. Too much salt and mineral is not beneficial, either.
Other types of licks
In the last years, we've seen a rise of "non-traditional" licks, that often have a very different composition but are still in many ways be beneficial to the horse. The two main names in that category are Likit and Horselyx.
The licks by Horselyx come in small tubs of 650g or buckets of 5kg. There's a few different versions of the licks, that all do different things or have different flavours: Original, Pro Digest, Respiratory, Mobility, Garlic and Mint. All of these licks contain a mix of vitamins, minerals and trace elements and depending on the exact version have some extra ingredients and flavourings added to them.
The tubs can be placed in the stable, paddock or field for the horse to use when needed or can easily be stored in the locker and only presented to the horse every now and then. Just like with normal salt licks, these ones also help prevent boredom or stress in the stable, as licking them gives the horse something to be occupied with and the licking motion helps calm the horse down.
Another fantastic boredom prevention item are of course the Likit licks. They come in small 250g packages (very nicely called Little Likits" or bigger 650g versions. The big Likit rocks are suited for the Likit Holder, which can be hung in the stable for the horse to play with. As it's able to swing around, it makes it a little more difficult of the horse to actually keep licking the entire time, keeping entertainment going for a long time.
Licks at Epplejeck
Buy your horse some nice licks at Epplejeck from the comfort of your home. Our virtual doors are open 24/7 for you and ordering is quick and easy. We always strive to send out your package just a few days after your order comes in, so your wait time is minimal. If something doesn’t fit, simply send it back to us within 30 days – no questions asked!