Frequently Asked Questions about Licks

Why do horses need licks?

Horses lose vital minerals daily through sweat, manure, urine, and metabolism. Licks help to balance this loss naturally. They supply minerals, trace elements, and vitamins exactly when the animal needs them.

Can foals also have licks?

We advise against the use of licks by foals. They cannot yet self-regulate the amount of salt and minerals or sometimes use the licks playfully. This can lead to an increased salt intake, which can consequently cause diarrhea. Tip: Mount the licks high enough so that the foals cannot reach them, but the broodmares or the rest of the herd can.

Can horses with metabolic issues use licks?

Yes – our licks are sugar-free, grain-free, and molasses-free, making them suitable for horses with EMS, Cushing's, or Laminitis. Some licks contain 0.1 – 0.3% molasses, but these amounts are so small that they do not need to be declared and make no difference even for horses with metabolic diseases. Particularly suitable:

  • MEDITERRANEO (Sea salt)
  • PREMIUMBLOCK
  • LOLLY-LICKS (Sugar-free!)

In case of doubt: Consult a vet or nutrition expert.

What is special about your salt?

We use natural Mediterranean sea salt with a high content of natural iodine. It is sustainably sourced through the evaporation of seawater under the Greek sun – completely without chemical refining. This means: high quality, natural & effective.

Where are your licks manufactured?

Our licks are developed and produced in Greece – adhering to the strictest EU quality, environmental, and social standards. Production is ISO 22000 and QS certified. Every block contains not only expertise but also a piece of the Mediterranean lifestyle.

What is a Lick Bar – and how does it work?

A Lick Bar is a selection of different licks available to the horse simultaneously. This allows the horse to freely decide which nutrient it currently needs based on its natural instinct.

💡 Ideal for: Open stables, boxes, paddocks, or pastures!

Does a Lick Bar lead to increased use of the licks?

No, providing several licks at the same time does not automatically lead to a higher total intake. A horse in appropriate keeping will continue to use the licks instinctively and will not consume more just because more are available to choose from. If a horse licks excessively or continuously due to boredom, stress, pain, or behavioral issues (such as tick behavior), it is doing so for reasons other than standard salt and mineral intake. In such cases, it is important to monitor usage, investigate the causes, and temporarily restrict access if necessary.

Which lick suits my horse?

Here is a brief overview:

  • PREMIUMBLOCK – for basic supply
  • MEDITERRANEO – pure sea salt
  • ZINCOBLOCK – for shedding & skin problems
  • BIOTIN+ – for hooves & hair
  • PROBIOTIC – for digestion & immune system
  • MAGNESIUM+ – for nervousness & stress
  • ANTI-INSECT – against flies & mosquitoes
  • KRÄUTERBLOCK – for gut support
  • LOLLY-LICKS – for boredom, e.g., during box rest
How long does a lick last?

This can vary greatly. A 3kg lick should last a single horse (average warmblood weighing 500-600kg) with maintenance needs for about 3 to 10 months (approx. 100 to 300 days) on average.
The exact duration depends on the individual sodium and mineral requirements. As a guide for daily intake:

  • Average intake: With normal activity, a horse would consume an estimated 10 to 30 grams per day.
  • Increased requirement: With high temperatures or heavy sports performance, the salt requirement could increase, shortening the lifespan accordingly.
  • Maximum intake: If a horse reaches the recommended maximum amount of 100 to 120 grams per day (approx. 1% of the daily feed ration), the lick would still last for about 25 to 30 days.
What is the maximum amount my horse should consume from a lick?

In principle, a lick is offered to horses for free intake, so the animal helps itself according to its individual mineral and salt needs.
Nevertheless, there is a recommended maximum limit of at most 1% of the daily feed ration to prevent overdosing on trace elements.
For an average large horse, this provides the following orientation:

  • Body weight: approx. 500 to 600 kg
  • Daily feed amount (daily ration): A horse in this weight class eats about 10 to 12 kg of feed daily (dry matter from hay and possibly concentrated feed).
  • Calculation of the maximum amount: 1% of 10kg to 12kg of feed corresponds to a maximum of 100 to 120 grams of the lick per day.

How long would the lick last at this maximum amount?
If a horse fully consumes this permissible maximum daily, a 3kg lick would last approximately 25 to 30 days.

Can other animals use the licks?

Some of our licks – like PREMIUMBLOCK or MEDITERRANEO – can also be used for cattle, goats, or sheep. However, caution: Many recipes are specifically tailored to horses. When in doubt, please ask the manufacturer or vet.

What is the Lolly-Lick?

A sugar-free horse toy made of sea salt, vitamins & natural herbs – perfect against boredom, especially during box rest or bad weather. No sugar, no molasses – suitable for metabolic horses!

Tip: Simply hang with a rope or use in a Likit holder.

Where can I buy the licks?

Conveniently online at:
animalixs.shop

We deliver directly to your stable!

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