Best Hay To Feed Goats (2024 Update)
If you’re looking for the best hay to feed goats, it’s important to consider a few important factors before making a purchase. Goats have sensitive digestive systems, so it’s essential that they receive proper nutrition in order to stay healthy and happy. The quality of the hay you choose can play a vital role in their overall well-being, as well as in the quality of their milk, if you have dairy goats.
When choosing hay for goats, it’s essential to consider factors such as the type of hay, the maturity of the hay, and the quality of the hay. Choosing premium quality hay that is high in protein and fiber is essential to keep them healthy. Additionally, goats prefer hay that is free from dust, mold, or foreign objects. Make sure to check your hay to make sure it is not mixed with other poor-quality hay that is not suitable for goat feeding.
If you’re in the market for hay for your goats, you may be wondering what type of hay is best or where you can find the highest quality hay. In order to narrow down your search, take some time to reflect on your goats' dietary needs, and ask yourself some key questions, like 'what is the nutritional value of the hay?', 'Is it free from harmful substances?', or 'Where can I find hay that is not too expensive?'. By understanding what your goats need and knowing what to look for when purchasing hay, you can ensure that you are feeding them the best possible hay for their overall health and well-being.
10 Best Hay To Feed Goats
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It is ideal for feeding hay to horses and goats with its slow hay feeder and 1-3/4" feeding holes.
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This product is ideal for slow feeding hay to horses, goats, and alpacas both indoors and outdoors, with a large capacity.
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3
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This product is ideal for storing and feeding hay to horses, goats, sheep, and cows. It is made of durable nylon with metal rings.
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4
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This product is ideal for storing, carrying, and feeding hay to horses, goats, donkeys, sheep, cattle, and rabbits.
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5
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Ideal for feeding small pets like rabbits, guinea pigs, chinchillas, and hamsters.
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6
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Ideal for slow feeding hay to horses and goats with a 2"x2" mesh hole design.
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7
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This product is ideal for small animals like guinea pigs and rabbits to consume as their main source of hay.
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8
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Ideal for feeding hay to horses, sheep, and goats with its large capacity and sturdy carbon steel wall-mounted design.
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9
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Ideal for feeding hay conveniently and efficiently to horses, goats or other livestock in trailers or stalls.
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10
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Ideal for reducing hay waste and providing slow feeding for horses, donkeys, and goats.
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1. Ultimate Slow Feed Hay Nets For Equine.
If you are in search of a durable haynet cord that can withstand daily use, look no further than this product. Designed for longevity, this extra strong cord is the perfect choice for anyone looking to simplify their hay storage needs.
One of the key features of this haynet cord is its small mesh holes, which measure 1-3/4" each. This slow feed design is ideal for horses and other livestock, as it helps to regulate their food intake and prevent overeating. Plus, the smaller mesh holes make it more difficult for animals to pull out large clumps of hay at once, which can help to reduce waste.
The cord itself is made from 6mm diameter rope, which is both strong and comfortable to handle. Whether you are carrying hay to your animals or simply hanging the cord up for storage, you will appreciate the better palm feel of this rope.
At a length of 36", this haynet cord is the perfect size for most standard hay bales. And with a capacity of 14.3lb (6.5kg), it can hold a generous amount of hay at once.
2. Tylu Slow Feed Hay Bag For Grazing.
This hay bag is an essential tool for horse owners, breeders and farmers alike. Made of tough and durable oxford cloth, this bag is designed to ensure a long service life. With dimensions of 20.4*14.9*18 inches (L*W*H), it offers ample space for hay storage.
The surface grid design enables hay to dry out and allows for slow feeding, which is particularly beneficial for horses on a diet. The large capacity opening makes it easy to fill quickly, saving both time and effort. The adjustable strap allows for easy hanging, making it convenient to use in stables, trailers or on fences. Simply hang it on your shoulder or carry it by hand to easily transport the horses hay feeder anywhere.
This slow feed hay bag is not only suitable for horses, but also for other livestock such as sheep and cattle. It is especially useful during the cold winter months when animals use hay bags indoors to eat warmer. It is also more convenient to use during summer grazing.
The horse feed bag keeps the hay inside and away from the ground, reducing waste and keeping stables tidy. This bag is a convenient and essential tool for breeders on the go. Overall, this hay bag is a reliable and practical solution for hay storage and feeding.
3. Double Duty Hay Tote: Horses And Goats
This package includes a set of two horse hay bags, providing ample quantity to meet the feeding needs of your animals. The bags are designed to keep hay clean and are easy to clean as well.
Measuring approximately 19.8 x 5.9 x 27.5 inches, these large-sized bags are convenient to hold and store a significant amount of hay. The size makes them suitable for feeding horses, sheep, and cows, among other animals.
Crafted from high-quality nylon material, these horse hay feeder sacks are sturdy and reliable. They are not prone to wear and tear, ensuring long-term usage. The bags are well-stitched to prevent ripping from horse bites and kicks.
The hay tote bags come equipped with two metal rings at the top, making them easy to hang on stalls, trailers, walls, and fences. This feature makes them highly convenient to hang and remove quickly.
Designed for storing hay and feeding horses, these nylon horse hay bags help reduce hay loss. They serve as an excellent tool for animal owners to feed their livestock. Moreover, these bags make a practical gift for families and friends who have horses or other animals.
4. Waterproof Hay Tote For Horses And Livestock
The Horse Hay Bag is a large and sturdy feeding tote bag designed with a velcro closure and four vents for optimal ventilation. Made of high-quality 600D nylon, it is perfect for horses, sheep, and cows. You can choose from three different colors to suit your preference.
With the four vents, you can easily move hay to a warehouse during bad weather conditions. Additionally, the bag is portable and can be placed in your car for transportation. It can also store other items, making it versatile to use. When not in use, you can fold it into a smaller size, which is easy to store, and saves space.
One of the key features of the Horse Hay Bag is its convenient carrying design. It has durable carry straps with cross-stitch fastening, which provides a large bearing capacity. The full wrap-around velcro on three sides makes it easy and convenient to carry, especially when moving the hay to your warehouse during bad weather.
The Hay Bale Bag comes with a portable harness and livestock hay bale bag, which measures 44.4" x 22.8" x 18.7". The folding size of the bag is 12.2" x 9.2" x 4.1". This means that you can easily store it when not in use and save space.
5. Grandpa's Best Timothy Hay Mini Bale, 10 Lbs (Packaging May Vary),brown
This premium hay is formulated with a soft texture that is gentle on your pet's digestive system, while its high fiber content and low protein levels provide a nutritious and wholesome meal. This hay is ideal for your pet's dental care as it promotes healthy chewing and reduces the risk of dental problems.
Crafted with care, this hay is additive and preservative-free, making it a safe and healthy option for your furry friends. Additionally, it is a versatile option that can be used for playtime, bedding, or as a dietary supplement, making it an all-purpose solution for your pet's needs.
Feeding your pet has never been easier, thanks to this hay's convenient and easy-to-feed format. Simply add it to your pet's mealtime routine for a hassle-free feeding experience.
6. Harrison Howard Slow Feed Hay Net For Horses With 2"x2" Mesh Holes Goat Feeder Blue
The careful feeding of hay is crucial to ensure the health and well-being of horses. This high-quality hay bag can help reduce waste and encourage slower eating, which is beneficial for better digestive health. By slowing down the horse's eating, it promotes a more natural feeding pattern, resulting in less stress and improved digestion.
Nice and Roomy for Extended Stable Activity
This hay bag is designed to hold a heavy load of hay, making it ideal for extended stable activity. It is easy to fill, and its roomy design allows for plenty of hay to be placed inside. This means that horses can have access to hay for longer periods without the need for constant refilling.
Durability for Longest Wear
Constructed from high-quality nylon rope, this hay bag is built to last. It can withstand the vigor of young horses and is sure to provide long-lasting use. Its durability makes it an excellent investment for horse owners looking for a reliable and sturdy hay bag.
Contrasting Colored Tie String for Easy Spotting
The bright white, easily noticed top closure rope of this hay bag makes it easy to spot, which is a bonus for eased loading and unloading. It enables horse owners to identify the hay bag quickly, saving them time and effort.
Attachment Made Simple for Convenience
This hay bag is easy to hook up and comes with a great rope to tie them up with. It is perfect for holding hay at shows, making it a convenient accessory for horse owners. It is available in black, red, blue, bright green, and grass green colors, providing a range of options to choose from.
7. Kaytee All Natural Timothy Hay For Guinea Pigs, Rabbits & Other Small Animals, 12 Pound
This high-quality hay is the ideal choice for small animals, as it is grown specifically to meet their unique dietary needs. The hay is grown without the use of pesticides, ensuring that your furry friend only receives natural, healthy nutrition.
This top-quality hay is rich in fiber, promoting optimal digestive health in small animals. It is America's #1 Hay Brand, a testament to its superior quality and popularity.
The hay is made from all-natural, non-GMO ingredients, ensuring that your pet only receives the best nutrition. There are no artificial preservatives added to the hay, making it a safe and healthy choice for your furry friend.
Investing in this top-quality hay is an excellent way to ensure that your small animal receives the best nutrition possible. Its superior quality, all-natural ingredients, and high fiber content make it the ideal choice for promoting optimal digestive health in your pet.
8. Large Capacity Wall Mounted Hay Feeder
Introducing BUYYAH's 48 Gallon Livestock Feeder, the ideal solution for all-day feeding of your beloved animals. With a large capacity of 48 gallons, this sheep hay feeder is perfect for keeping your livestock fed and happy. Measuring 63 x 15.5 x 22.5 inches, it provides ample space for your animals to eat comfortably.
Designed to be wall-mounted, this feeder is perfect for those looking to save space. Installation is quick and easy, allowing you to get back to tending to your animals in no time.
Constructed from durable carbon steel, this wall hay rack is built to last. It is rust-proof, non-deformed and BPA-free, ensuring that it is safe for your animals to use and friendly to their healthy growth.
The multiple-sided design of this goat hay rack ensures a spacious eating space, with large openings that allow your livestock to eat without hindrance. With the capacity to accommodate up to 10 horses at once, this feeder is perfect for use in farms, horse farms, sheep sheds, courtyards, and other similar settings.
BUYYAH's wall-mounted hay rack has been well-received by farmers and animal lovers alike, thanks to its ease of use and effectiveness in providing scientific feeding for livestock. So, why wait? Get your hands on this top-quality feeder today and provide your animals with the care they deserve.
9. Asooll Large Capacity Hay Bag For Horses.
Introducing the ultra-tough corner feeder, designed to provide a convenient feeding solution for your horse. Made from high-quality materials, this feeder is built to last. The 1000D mesh bottom and nylon webbed edges with reinforced grommets at each corner ensure durability and longevity.
The air-permeable mesh bottom design prevents debris and dust from flying into the hay bag while maintaining ventilation to keep the horse feed dry. This makes it an ideal choice for horse owners who want to keep their animals healthy and happy.
The corners of this horse feeder bag are complete with reinforced grommets and heavy-duty, double-end snaps for easy attachment to a trailer or stall. The adjustable straps can avoid the feeder being too tight or droopy on three sides, ensuring a perfect fit every time.
With a large capacity of 33.5 inches X 25.6 inches X 22.7 inches and a depth of 10.6 inches, this deep corner bag can hold a lot of hay, saving you time and effort in repeatedly filling the bag. This feature makes it perfect for use in slant load trailers or stalls.
Order now to enjoy our 100% satisfaction guarantee. At our company, customer satisfaction is our top priority. If you encounter any problems during use, please do not hesitate to contact our friendly and knowledgeable customer service team, and we will work with you to provide a satisfactory solution to ensure you have the best purchase experience possible.
10. Haysaver Feed Bags – Durable Adjustable Netting (2-Pack)
Introducing the Slow Feeder Hay Bag, a perfect solution for horse owners who want to simulate natural grazing and promote healthy digestion for their animals. Measuring at 23.6 x 18.9 x 9.8 inches, this bag is the ideal size for horses, donkeys, goats, and sheep.
Crafted from durable 600D oxford material, the Slow Feeder Hay Bag is designed to withstand daily wear and tear, ensuring a long service life. Its large capacity can hold a significant amount of hay, and loading, hanging, and carrying the bag is a breeze.
Featuring adjustable straps with D-rings, this bag prevents top feeding and provides extra stabilization on the bottom to keep hay bales securely in place while your horse is eating. This feature also helps to reduce hay waste, saving you money in the long run.
The bag's small holes are strategically placed to prevent your horse from gulping too much food or air at once, reducing over-spill and hay mess. This helps to improve your horse's overall digestion, preventing potential health issues such as colic, which can be deadly.
Best Hay To Feed Goats FAQs
Can goats eat alfalfa hay?
Yes, goats can eat alfalfa hay. In fact, alfalfa hay is a popular feed option for goats as it is high in protein, calcium, and other essential nutrients that are important for their growth and overall health. However, it is important to note that alfalfa hay should be fed in moderation as it is also high in calories and can lead to obesity if overfed. It is recommended to offer alfalfa hay to goats as a supplement to their regular diet of hay, pasture, and fresh water. Additionally, it is important to ensure that the alfalfa hay is of good quality, free of mold and dust, as these can be harmful to goats. Overall, alfalfa hay can be a nutritious and beneficial feed option for goats when fed in moderation and with proper care.
Can goats eat grass hay?
Yes, goats can eat grass hay. In fact, grass hay is an essential part of a goat's diet. Goats are ruminants, which means that they have four stomach compartments that allow them to digest and extract nutrients from tough plant fibers. Grass hay provides goats with the necessary fiber and roughage they need to maintain healthy digestion and gut health.
When selecting grass hay for goats, it is important to choose a high-quality hay that is free from mold, dust, and other contaminants. The hay should also be free from weeds and other plants that may be toxic to goats. Alfalfa hay is another popular hay choice for goats, but it is higher in protein and calcium than grass hay, so it should be fed in moderation.
It is recommended that goats have access to hay at all times, as they have a natural grazing behavior. Providing a steady supply of grass hay can also help prevent boredom and destructive behavior in goats.
How do I choose the best quality hay for my goats?
Choosing the best quality hay for your goats is crucial for their overall health and wellbeing. Here are some tips to help you select the best hay for your goats:
1. Look for hay that is fresh and free of mold, dust, and weeds. Moldy hay can cause respiratory problems and digestive issues in goats.
2. Choose hay that is made from a variety of grasses and legumes. This will provide your goats with a balanced diet and the necessary nutrients.
3. Check the protein and fiber content of the hay. Goats require a diet that is high in fiber and moderate in protein.
4. Consider the age and weight of your goats when selecting hay. Younger goats require hay that is softer and easier to digest, while older goats may need hay that is more coarse to help maintain their teeth.
5. Test the hay if possible. You can do this by smelling it, feeling its texture, and observing the color. Good quality hay should have a sweet smell, be soft to the touch, and have a bright green color.
In summary, selecting the best quality hay for your goats involves considering the freshness, variety, protein and fiber content, age and weight of your goats, and by testing the hay if possible.
How much hay should I feed my goats each day?
The amount of hay to feed your goats will depend on various factors such as their age, weight, and activity level. As a general rule of thumb, adult goats should consume about 2-4 pounds of hay per day, per 100 pounds of body weight. This means that if your goat weighs 100 pounds, it should consume between 2-4 pounds of hay per day. However, if your goat is lactating or pregnant, it may require more hay to meet its nutritional needs.
It is essential to provide high-quality hay that is free from mold, dust, and other contaminants. Additionally, goats require access to fresh water at all times, especially when consuming dry feed such as hay.
It is also important to monitor your goat's body condition regularly to ensure it is not becoming too thin or overweight. Adjust the amount of hay accordingly, if needed.
Overall, providing the right amount of hay and monitoring your goats' nutrition is crucial to their health and well-being.
How often should goats be fed hay?
Goats are known for their voracious appetite and need for constant grazing. Feeding hay to goats is an essential part of their diet, especially during the winter months when pastures are limited. As a general rule, goats should be fed hay at least twice a day, preferably in the morning and evening. However, the amount of hay and frequency of feeding may vary depending on the goat’s age, breed, weight, and activity level. Adult goats typically require 2-4 pounds of hay per day, while pregnant or lactating goats may need up to 5-6 pounds per day. It is also important to note that the quality of hay must be taken into consideration. Good quality hay should be clean, free of mold and dust, and have a sweet smell. Additionally, goats should always have access to fresh, clean water and a mineral supplement to ensure optimal health and nutrition.
Should I feed my goats hay that is grown locally or from another region?
It is generally recommended to feed goats hay that is grown locally, as it is more likely to be fresh and nutritionally balanced for their specific needs. Local hay will also be more affordable and readily available, as it does not need to be shipped from another region. However, if local hay is not available or of poor quality, it may be necessary to consider hay from another region. It is important to carefully research the source of the hay and ensure that it meets the nutritional needs of your goats. This can be done by analyzing the hay for protein, fiber, and mineral content, as well as ensuring that it is free from mold, dust, and other contaminants. Ultimately, the health and wellbeing of your goats should be the top priority when selecting hay for their diet.
What are some common types of hay that are safe for goats to eat?
Goats are known to be picky eaters and their digestive system is sensitive, so it is important to provide them with safe and healthy forage options. There are various types of hay that are safe for goats to eat, and some of the most common ones include:
1. Timothy Hay: This is a popular type of hay that is high in fiber, low in protein, and easy to digest. It is a good choice for adult goats and can help maintain their digestive health.
2. Alfalfa Hay: This type of hay is high in protein and calcium, making it a great option for pregnant and lactating goats. However, it should be given in moderation to adult goats as it can cause urinary calculi.
3. Bermuda Grass Hay: This type of hay is low in protein and high in fiber, making it a good option for adult goats.
4. Orchard Grass Hay: This hay is similar to Timothy hay in terms of nutrition and digestibility and can be a good option for adult goats.
It is important to note that the quality of hay can vary, so it is best to choose a reputable supplier and inspect the hay before feeding it to your goats. Additionally, it is important to provide fresh, clean water at all times and to monitor your goats' health and appetite.
What are the nutritional requirements of goats when it comes to hay?
Goats have specific nutritional requirements when it comes to hay. It is important to provide them with good quality hay that is free from mold and dust. The amount of hay that a goat requires depends on its size, age, and activity level. Generally, adult goats require 2-4 pounds of hay per day while pregnant and lactating goats require more.
Hay should be a significant part of a goat's diet as it provides them with fiber, protein, and energy. The ideal hay for goats is one that is high in fiber and low in protein. Alfalfa hay is a good choice for young, growing kids or pregnant or lactating does, as it is high in protein and calcium. However, adult goats should be fed grass hay as it is lower in protein and higher in fiber.
It is important to remember that hay is not the only source of nutrition for goats. They require a balanced diet that includes hay, pasture, fresh water, and minerals. It is recommended to consult with a veterinarian or a qualified livestock nutritionist to ensure that your goats are receiving the right amount and type of hay for their specific needs.
What is the difference between hay and straw, and which one is better for goats?
Hay and straw are both commonly used as livestock feed, but they have different characteristics and uses. Hay is a type of forage that is made from cut and dried grasses, legumes, or other plants. It is higher in nutrition and protein than straw, making it a better choice for animals that require more nutrients, such as goats who are lactating or growing. Hay is usually green or brown in color and has a sweet smell.
Straw, on the other hand, is an agricultural byproduct that is made from the stem of wheat, barley, or oat plants. It is lower in nutrition and protein than hay, and is often used as bedding material for livestock. Straw is usually yellow in color and has a dry, scratchy texture.
In terms of feeding goats, hay is generally the better option as it provides more nutrition and is more palatable. However, straw can be used as a supplement to hay or as a bedding material. It is important to ensure that any feed given to goats is free from mold, dust, and other contaminants that could be harmful to their health.
What type of hay is best for feeding goats?
When it comes to feeding goats, the type of hay that you choose can significantly impact their health and productivity. The best type of hay for goats is one that is high in fiber and low in protein. Alfalfa hay is a popular choice for many goat owners due to its high protein content, but it can also cause urinary calculi in male goats if fed in excess.
A better choice for most goats is grass hay, such as timothy, orchard, or brome. These hays are lower in protein and higher in fiber than alfalfa, which is closer to the natural diet of goats. They also contain a balanced ratio of calcium to phosphorus, which is essential for maintaining good bone health in goats.
When selecting hay for your goats, look for bright green color, a sweet smell, and a soft texture. Avoid hay that is brown, dusty, or moldy, as it can cause respiratory issues and digestive problems. Additionally, make sure that the hay is free from weeds and other foreign objects that can be harmful to your goats.
Overall, choosing the right type of hay is an essential part of keeping goats healthy and happy. By providing your goats with high-quality grass hay, you can ensure that they are getting the nutrients they need to thrive.
