mineral buckets

[margaretb]

OH has put out a mineral bucket called Maglix for sheep about a week ago in the orchard where Poppy grazes for the ewes and lambs, there are also cows & calves.

Poppy's not been greedy for it, but has had her head in the bucket tonight, but did not appear to lick the minerals much , however her poo is slighty darker, and she is farting a little more frequently. She is outside 24/7, no additional feed to supplement the grass.

Looking at the spec on the bucket "contains 20% magnesium on a molasses base with the extra benefit of protected zinc which will support hoof integrity."

I intend to ring the supplier in the morning but wonder what your thoughts were..

 

[GLEEK]

How funny i was wondering if horses were allowed these type licks. My reason for wondering is that one of my mares just stands and basically eats them so a lick only lasts 1/2 a day at the most. I think she needs a less tasty lick!
I know this is no use to you but if nobody replies could you let me know what feed/lick people say

 

[margaretb]

Of course - I'm hoping they're not having an effect, it was just the excessive wind that got me wondering, but then again maybe I have a farty horse!

 

[racingdemon]

generally speaking if they are ok for sheep, it will be ok for horses, it is the cattle ones that contain high levels of copper that can kill sheep, and that is where the confusion often occurs, only worry if it specifically says do not feed to horses,

hope that helps

 

[margaretb]

Thank you for that, I will ring up the supplier in the morning just to be on the safe side.

 

[martlin]

Maglix is fairly safe for horses, but if she had quite a lot it will be the molasses that gets her going