I have a question on salt. I see the cows lick salt all the time, but the horses don't seem to lick much salt. Can I feed them the loose salt? How much a day? I'm wondering if they need as much salt as a cow.

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Hi Kasey,

Yes, horses do need salt, especially when they perspire a great deal (such as in warm weather or during exercise). Some horses do not like salt licks, but many do. I recommend always having one available – a plain, iodized salt lick (not a mineralized block or sweetened one).

Also, in the winter, if the water is cold, adding salt to the diet encourages them to drink more water. (Actually, it is best to heat the water to at least 50 degrees F in the winter).

So, to answer your question, Yes – you can add loose salt. Choose plain, iodized salt – the kind you would buy in the grocery store. And, feed one to two tablespoons each day, depending on the need.

I’m not absolutely certain about cow’s needs, except that dairy cows do have a higher requirement for salt because of their constant milk production.

All the best,

Dr. Getty