How to Make Cattle Lick Tubs

Mineral blocks, also known as cattle licks, are given to cattle to supply trace minerals and other nutrients helpful to their diet. A mineral block will absorb urine, groundwater and other unhealthy moisture if left on the ground. They can be placed in feed mangers, but if the pen or pasture in which the cattle are being held does not already contain one, it may be necessary to build a small tub for the lick. A tub can be made quickly and cheaply, without using exact measurements.

Things You'll Need

  • Teat dip drum
  • Electric saw
  • 2 pieces of lumber
  • 4 bolts
  • 8 washers
  • 4 nuts
  • Wrench
  • Electric drill
  • Drill bit
  • Safety goggles
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Instructions

    • 1

      Cut a plastic teat dip drum in half lengthwise using an electric saw or reciprocating saw. Most dairy farms have extra teat dip drums, but other types of plastic barrels or containers can be used as well. Wear safety goggles to keep shards of plastic out of your eyes.

    • 2

      Drill two holes at each end of one of the half-barrels. The other half can be saved to make another cattle lick tub later. The holes should be the same size or slight larger than the bolts being used.

    • 3

      Cut a piece of lumber into two equal pieces that are the same width as the ends of the half-barrel.

    • 4

      Line the two pieces of lumber with the ends of the half-barrel and mark where the holes have been drilled into the plastic. Drill the same holes into the wood.

    • 5

      Secure the blocks of wood on each side of the half-barrel with the bolts. Use a large washer between the head of the bolt and the plastic container, and one between the nut and the wood. The head of the bolt should be in the inside of the tub. Tighten the nuts with the appropriate wrench. The plastic half of the teat dip drum acts as the tub, and the wood on each end gives it stability, so it can't be knocked over.