Grass and hay do not always provide all the minerals and trace elements a goat needs. A mineral lick, lick block or mineral bolus tops that up. The choice is less simple than it looks, because goats, sheep and cattle react differently to copper. In this collection you will find mineral licks, lick blocks and boluses, and below you can read how to choose.
The copper story in brief
Copper is necessary, but too much is harmful. In sheep, the sensitivity to copper poisoning is well known and differs greatly between breeds; products for sheep therefore often contain little or no added copper. In goats, both copper deficiency and copper poisoning occur, depending on ration, soil and breed. So there is no fixed rule for all goats. Always read the label, and if in doubt have blood or liver tested via your vet before giving extra copper. If you keep goats and sheep together, choose a product that is safe for the most sensitive species in the group.
Mineral lick, lick block or bolus?
| Form | Examples in the range | When handy |
|---|---|---|
| Mineral lick | Excellent Liksteen Mineral Schaap 10 kg; also cattle licks such as Mineral Rund and Biotin | Free access in the barn or field, little work |
| Lick block | Excellent Toplik and Goldlik (sheep/lamb) 20 kg | Groups at pasture, around pregnancy and kidding |
| Bolus | Excellent Sheep Bullet mineral boluses, with or without copper, or with biotin | If you want to supplement per animal, given with an applicator |
A mineral lick or block lets each goat decide how much it takes in; dominant animals sometimes take more. With a bolus you know exactly which animal gets what, but then you have to catch and dose each animal. An applicator for long-acting boluses makes that safer.
Practical
Hang or place a mineral lick somewhere dry, where the goats can easily reach it and where it does not lie in droppings. Always provide fresh drinking water nearby: those who lick, drink more. For a shortage of vitamin A, D3 and E, there is a separate vitamin gel.
More for your goats via the goat overview. Energy and vitamins around kidding are in health and goat kids; bucket holders in housing and feeding. A strong mineral supply shows in healthy hooves.
Frequently asked questions
Can my goat use a mineral lick for sheep?
Often yes, but check the copper content on the label. A sheep lick usually contains little copper; whether that is enough for your goats depends on ration and soil.
Is a cattle lick suitable for goats?
That depends on the composition. Cattle products can contain more copper; if you also keep sheep, make sure they cannot get to it.
How do I know if my goats are short of copper?
Only testing blood or liver gives certainty. Consult your vet before giving extra copper.