5 Best Horse Lick Supplements

Managing a small herd requires a constant balancing act between available forage quality and the specific nutritional gaps of each animal. While a lush green pasture looks complete, soil variations often mean horses lack the critical trace minerals necessary for nerve function and coat health. Providing a reliable lick supplement ensures that every horse, from the retired pony to the active hunter, can self-regulate their sodium and mineral intake according to their unique physiological needs.

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Redmond Rock Natural Mineral Block: Best Overall Pick

Natural mineral deposits offer a complexity that manufactured blocks often struggle to replicate. This solid rock is mined directly from ancient seabed deposits, containing over 60 naturally occurring trace minerals including copper, zinc, and manganese. Because it is a solid stone rather than a compressed powder, it stands up exceptionally well to aggressive lickers who might otherwise bite chunks off a softer block.

The lack of artificial flavors or sweeteners is a significant advantage for owners managing easy keepers or horses with metabolic sensitivities. Horses tend to seek this out only when they truly need it, reducing the risk of treat-seeking behavior that leads to waste. Its rugged durability means it won’t crumble into a salty mess at the bottom of a feeder during humid spells.

If the goal is to provide the most bioavailable, chemical-free mineral source available, this is the definitive choice. It fits perfectly into a management style that prioritizes “back-to-basics” nutrition without the clutter of extra fillers. This is the block for the horse owner who wants nature to do the heavy lifting.

Purina Free Balance 12:12 Block: Best for Pasture

Pasture-raised horses face specific nutritional challenges, particularly the fluctuating ratios of calcium and phosphorus found in regional grasses. This block is specifically formulated to provide a 1:1 ratio of these minerals, which is critical for bone density and structural integrity. It serves as a comprehensive safety net for horses that live outside year-round and rely primarily on forage for their calories.

The weather-resistant technology used in this formulation is a standout feature for the hobby farmer. Unlike many compressed blocks that dissolve into a slurry after a heavy rainstorm, this block maintains its shape and palatability through various weather cycles. This durability reduces the frequency of replacements and ensures that the mineral investment actually ends up in the horse rather than the soil.

For those managing horses on a grass-heavy diet without much grain, this supplement is the essential missing piece of the puzzle. It provides the vitamin A, D, and E levels that often drop off in standing hay or late-season pastures. Choose this block if your horses spend the majority of their time in the field and need a hardy, reliable mineral source that survives the elements.

Horslic Omega Elite Tub: Best for Performance Horses

Performance horses and breeding stock require more than just basic salt; they need energy-dense support for recovery and coat condition. This tub delivery system combines high-quality minerals with omega-3 fatty acids from flaxseed oil and added fats. The concentrated pour process creates a dense, weather-proof product that prevents horses from biting or over-consuming the supplement.

The addition of biotin and yeast culture supports both hoof growth and digestive efficiency, making it a multi-purpose tool for high-stress environments. It is particularly effective for “hard keepers” who struggle to maintain weight during training or through the winter months. The moisture-dense nature of the tub ensures that the vitamins remain stable and potent even when exposed to the air.

This is the premier option for the active equestrian or the breeder looking to give their stock a competitive edge in appearance and stamina. It is an all-in-one solution that replaces several top-dress supplements, simplifying the daily feeding routine. If your horse works hard for a living, this is the supplement they deserve.

Likit Boredom Buster: Best for Stall-Bound Horses

Stall rest or limited turnout can lead to destructive stable vices like cribbing or weaving born out of sheer under-stimulation. This system turns mineral consumption into an interactive game, requiring the horse to lick and move the hanging toy to access the supplement. It effectively bridges the gap between nutritional necessity and environmental enrichment.

The formulation is highly palatable, which encourages consistent use even by finicky horses who might ignore a standard white salt block. While it provides essential sodium, its primary value lies in the mental engagement it provides during long winter nights or recovery periods. The refills come in various flavors, allowing for rotation to keep the horse’s interest high over long periods.

Owners dealing with high-strung horses or those confined to small paddocks will find this an indispensable tool for stable management. It is not just a supplement; it is a management strategy for psychological health. This is the right call for any horse that spends more than a few hours a day inside a stall.

Manna Pro Apple-Flavored Block: Best Budget Choice

Getting a picky horse to consume adequate salt can be a frustrating exercise in trial and error. This apple-flavored block solves the palatability issue through scent and taste, making it an excellent “starter” block for young horses or those new to a farm. It provides a standard balance of salt and essential trace minerals at a price point that makes sense for larger herds.

The 4-pound size is particularly convenient for hobby farmers with limited storage space or those who prefer to keep fresh blocks in several different locations. It is small enough to fit into standard wall-mounted holders but substantial enough to last a single horse several weeks. The distinct aroma helps horses locate the block quickly in a new environment or a large run-in shed.

For the budget-conscious owner who needs a reliable, no-frills salt source that horses actually enjoy, this block hits the mark. It provides the fundamental sodium requirements without the premium price tag of specialized performance tubs. This is the dependable, everyday choice for general maintenance and happy horses.

How to Choose the Right Mineral Block for Your Horse

Selecting a supplement begins with an honest assessment of your local soil and the hay you purchase. If your region is known for selenium deficiency, look for blocks specifically fortified with that mineral to prevent muscle issues. Conversely, if your hay is high in alfalfa, you may need a block with less calcium to keep the internal ratios balanced.

Consider the age and activity level of the individual horse when browsing options. * Growing foals and lactating mares need higher mineral concentrations for skeletal development. * Senior horses may benefit from softer blocks or tubs that are easier on aging teeth. * Idle “pasture puffs” usually thrive on a simple natural rock or basic salt block.

The physical environment also dictates the choice. A soft, molasses-based block will attract flies and melt in high-heat, high-humidity climates, making a hard-pressed mineral block a better seasonal choice. Matching the block’s durability to your local weather patterns prevents unnecessary waste and keeps the feeding area cleaner.

Preventing Overconsumption and Salt Toxicity Issues

While most horses are excellent at self-regulating their salt intake, some individuals develop a habit of “boredom eating” their mineral blocks. If a block that should last a month is disappearing in three days, the horse is likely consuming far more than they need. This can lead to loose stools and increased urination, which complicates stall management and wastes money.

To prevent this, ensure the horse has constant access to fresh, clean water at all times. Salt works by triggering the thirst response; if the water source is unpalatable or too far away, the horse may stop using the block or, conversely, become dehydrated if they continue to lick it. If overconsumption persists, try moving the block further away from the hay feeder to discourage casual snacking.

Salt toxicity is rare but serious, usually occurring only when a salt-deprived horse is suddenly given unlimited access without enough water. When introducing a new block to a horse that hasn’t had one for a while, monitor them for the first few hours. If they seem obsessed, offer the block in limited intervals until their initial craving is satisfied and they return to a normal consumption rhythm.

Smart Placement Tips to Protect Blocks From the Rain

Water is the enemy of the compressed mineral block, as it causes the salt to leach out and the structure to crumble. Placing blocks inside a three-sided run-in shed is the most effective way to keep them dry while maintaining 24/7 access. Ensure the block is positioned away from the “drip line” of the roof, where splashing rainwater can still reach it.

If your horses are on 24-hour pasture without a shed, mount the block holder on the leeward side of a large tree or a fence post equipped with a small “roof” or cover. This simple DIY addition can double the life of a block during a rainy spring. Avoid placing blocks in low-lying areas of the paddock where standing water or mud can accumulate after a storm.

Consider the social dynamics of the herd when choosing a location. Never place a single mineral block in a tight corner where a dominant horse can “trap” a subordinate one. Aim for an open area with multiple exit routes, or better yet, provide two separate stations so that even the lowest-ranking horse in the herd can get their daily minerals without fear of a kick.

Adjusting Mineral and Salt Intake During Hot Summer

During the peak of summer, a horse can lose significant amounts of sodium, potassium, and chloride through sweat. A standard mineral block may not be enough for a horse in heavy work during a heatwave. In these cases, you might need to supplement the block with loose salt or electrolytes added directly to their evening grain to ensure immediate replenishment.

Heat also changes the physical properties of some supplements. Molasses-based tubs can become sticky and attract bees or wasps, which may discourage horses from approaching. Switching to a hard, natural rock during the hottest months can keep the supplement area cleaner and safer for the horses to use.

Always check the salt block daily during high-heat cycles to ensure it hasn’t become coated in dust or grime. Horses are remarkably clean eaters and will often reject a block that is covered in dried mud or manure. A quick rinse with a water hose and a scrub with a stiff brush can make an old, ignored block attractive again, ensuring the horse stays hydrated.

Choosing the Best Holders to Prevent Waste and Mud

Leaving a mineral block sitting directly on the ground is a recipe for waste. Soil moisture will dissolve the bottom of the block, and horses will inevitably step on it or kick it into the mud. A proper holder is a minor investment that pays for itself by ensuring 100% of the block is available for consumption.

Wall-mounted plastic or rubberized holders are ideal for stalls and sheds because they have no sharp metal edges that could scrape a horse’s face. For outdoor fence posts, heavy-duty galvanized metal holders are more durable against the elements and the occasional “head-rub” from a scratchy horse. Look for designs that have drainage holes at the bottom so that any incidental moisture can escape rather than pooling around the base of the block.

For the natural, irregular shapes of Himalayan or Redmond rocks, a rope-style hanger is often the best solution. Hanging the rock at chest height allows it to swing slightly, which can provide a small amount of mental stimulation while keeping the rock away from walls where it might leave salty residue. Regardless of the style, ensure all hardware is recessed or smoothed over to prevent manes and tails from getting snagged.

Providing the right mineral supplement is one of the simplest yet most impactful ways to support a horse’s long-term health. By selecting a product that matches your horse’s specific workload and environment, you ensure they remain resilient against the changing seasons and the demands of farm life.