Best Hay To Feed Horses (2024 Update)
If you're looking for the best hay to feed your horses, there are various factors you need to consider. Not all hay is created equal, and different hay types offer different nutritional values for horses. However, before making a choice of hay to feed your horses, you must consider the following factors.
First is the age, weight, and activity of your horse. Different horses have different nutritional requirements, and you want to ensure that you feed your horse with hay that is best suited for its age, weight, and activity. The second factor is the quality of hay you are buying. You want to make sure that you are purchasing hay that is fresh, free of mold and dust, and has a good nutritional value that satisfies your horse's needs. Lastly, you will need to consider your location and what hay is readily available. You may have limited options regarding hay types and quality.
When selecting the right hay for your horse, it's crucial to ask yourself some questions. What hay type is best suited for your horse's needs? How much hay will your horse need? What is the nutritional value of the hay, and how does it support your horse's health? Your answers to these questions will guide you in making an informed decision and provide your horse with the best possible hay.
10 Best Hay To Feed Horses
| # | Product Image | Product Name | Product Notes | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1
|
 |
The product is ideal for promoting better digestion and colic-free feeding of horses through its slow feed hay bag design.
|
|
|
|
2
|
 |
This product is ideal for slow feeding hay to horses in round bales, allowing them to eat at a natural pace.
|
|
|
|
3
|
 |
The product is ideal for horse feeding, particularly for slow feeding and while trailering.
|
|
|
|
4
|
 |
The product is ideal for slow feeding hay to horses with round or square bales of specific sizes and hole measurements.
|
|
|
|
5
|
 |
This product is ideal for horses that need a slow feeder hay bag with a durable bottom.
|
|
|
|
6
|
 |
This product is ideal for feeding horses hay at a slower pace, with added durability and warranty.
|
|
|
|
7
|
 |
Ideal for holding hay in the corner of horse stalls and trailers, providing convenient feeding for horses.
|
|
|
|
8
|
 |
The hay saver bag is ideal for horse owners who want to slow down their horse's feeding and reduce hay waste.
|
|
|
|
9
|
 |
Ideal for horses or other livestock, this hay bag is durable and slows down feeding to promote better digestion.
|
|
|
|
10
|
 |
It is ideal for reducing horse feeding anxiety and behavioral issues by holding a full day's worth of hay/feed.
|
|
1. Kensington Digestion-Friendly Hay Bag – Lavender Mint
If you're looking for a way to improve your horse's digestion and minimize mess in their stall, the slow-feed hay bag from this seller is a must-have. This bag allows your horse to feed naturally, mimicking their grazing process and promoting better digestion.
With this slow-feed hay bag, you can say goodbye to the endless sweeping and tidying of your horse's stall. It's designed to prevent your horse from stepping on, rolling in, or pooping on their food. This means that your horse can eat freely without spoiling the hay, making your job as a caretaker much easier.
The slow-feed hay bag is made of sturdy poly-nylon material with 1.5" x 1.5" square holes that won't easily wear or tear. It also comes with adjustable straps that make it easy to hang and transport.
This slow-feed hay bag is capable of holding up to four flakes of hay, making it the perfect choice for horses with hearty appetites. It's also designed with extra-strong nylon squares, making it easy for your horse to access their food.
2. Tech Equestrian (4×5 Knotless Heavyduty 4-5mm Thick Round Bale Slow Feed Hay Net (4×5)
Introducing the Hay Saving Net, an innovative solution designed to prevent hay wastage and save you money in the long run. This net is an essential addition to any stable or farm that cares about their bottom line and the well-being of their horses.
The Hay Saving Net has a net size of 4×5, making it easy to fit 4×4, 4×5 round bales, and square bales of up to 5 feet. It is important to note that this net should only be used on bales with a side length of 4 feet, as attempting to use it on larger bales could cause damage.
One of the standout features of the Hay Saving Net is its knotless netting. This 4-5mm thick netting is incredibly soft, making it gentle on your horse's gums and mouth. Additionally, every purchase comes with a free repair kit, allowing you to fix any minor holes that may occur over time.
If for any reason you are unsatisfied with your purchase, the Hay Saving Net offers hassle-free returns. Unused nets can be returned, and if you accidentally order the wrong size, the company will also facilitate a return. However, for health and hygiene purposes, it is important to note that chewed or used nets cannot be returned.
3. Horsenet: Slow Feed Trailering Solution
Introducing the Small Hole Hay Net, the ultimate solution to wasteful feeding habits, digestion problems, and feeding anxiety in horses. This hay net is the perfect addition to any horse trailer or stall, providing a superior-quality feeding experience that lasts longer than other hay net feeders.
Made in America with top-quality materials, this hay net is built to last. Its user-friendly design makes it easy to install and convenient to carry, with a wide mouth that holds 2-4 flakes of hay. The 1.5" hole size ensures that hay is dispensed at a reasonable rate, preventing overeating and promoting healthy digestion.
Say goodbye to wasteful feeding habits with the Small Hole Hay Net. Its design efficiently dispenses hay, reducing waste and saving money in the long run. Additionally, this net feeder prevents horse colic, ulcers, and feeding anxiety, promoting a healthy and stress-free feeding experience for your horse.
The Small Hole Hay Net is the best option for trailering, as it hangs without scratching and provides a stable feeding experience for your horse on the go. Its compact design makes it easy to store and carry, making it perfect for horse owners who are always on the move.
4. Slow-Feed Round Bale Feeder For Horses.
Introducing the Haynet for Horses – the ultimate solution for reducing waste and keeping your horse's hay fresh for longer periods of time. This innovative product is specially designed for round bales and is made from high-quality materials for maximum durability.
One of the most notable features of the Haynet is its waste-free design. Unlike traditional hay nets, this product ensures that no hay goes to waste. This is great news for horse owners who are looking to save money on feed costs and reduce their environmental footprint.
In addition to its waste-free design, the Haynet also helps to keep your horse's hay fresh for longer periods of time. This is achieved through the net's slow feed system, which dispenses hay at a controlled rate. As a result, the hay lasts 2-3 times longer than with traditional feeding methods.
The Haynet also promotes better digestion in horses. Its slow feed system helps to prevent colic, ulcers, and feeding anxieties. This means that your horse will be happier, healthier, and more comfortable.
Constructed in America, this hay net is built to last. It is made from high-quality UV resistant nylon mesh which ensures that it can withstand even the toughest conditions. This feature is critical for horse owners who want to ensure that their hay nets last for a long time.
Finally, the Haynet is incredibly user-friendly. It is easy to install and convenient to carry, making it a great choice for horse owners who are always on the go. The net can easily hold lots of hay, which means that you won't have to refill it as frequently.
5. Derby Originals Super Tough Hay Bag.
Introducing the Derby Originals Hay Bag – a must-have for horse owners who want to ensure their equine friends are well-fed and healthy. This hay bag is designed to hold approximately 2-3 flakes of hay, with a size of 21x7x25" and 1.75" square openings. Whether you're feeding Timothy, Orchard, Alfalfa, or any other type of hay, this hay bag is sure to fit your needs.
One of the standout features of this hay bag is the exclusive Super Tough Bottom design. Made of reinforced overlapping nylon webbing, this design ensures superior strength and durability. Your hay will stay fresh and dust and debris will exit the bag with ease.
But the benefits of this hay bag don't stop there. Slow feeding is recommended by veterinarians to prevent gastric ulcers, colic, and boredom-related behavioral vices. Horses are designed to spend up to 18 hours a day grazing, and the Derby Originals Hay Bag allows you to replicate this natural behavior.
Lastly, this hay bag comes with a 6-month limited manufacturer's warranty offered by Derby Originals. While accidental damage or wear and tear is not covered, the warranty does cover manufacturing defects. For more information, be sure to contact the manufacturer.
6. Xl Slow Feeder Haybag With Tough Bottom
Introducing the hay bag from Derby Originals – a product designed to provide a hassle-free feeding experience for your horse. With dimensions of 19x19x41" and 1.75" square openings, this hay bag has the capacity to hold approximately 1 bale of hay, whether it be Timothy, Orchard, Alfalfa, or any other variety.
What sets this hay bag apart from the rest is its exclusive patented 4-sided construction. This design allows your horse to eat from any part of the hay bag, eliminating the risk of material rips and tears commonly found in other hay bags. The nylon webbing is incredibly durable and built to last, ensuring that your horse can feed comfortably for extended periods.
The Super Tough Bottom is another unique feature of this hay bag. Made of reinforced overlapping nylon webbing, it provides superior strength and durability while allowing dust and debris to exit the bag. This ensures that your horse is only consuming fresh hay, which is essential for maintaining good health.
Slow feeding is an excellent way to replicate your horse's natural grazing behavior, and this hay bag is designed to facilitate just that. Veterinarians recommend slow feeding to prevent gastric ulcers, colic, and boredom-related behavioral vices. By using this hay bag, you ensure that your horse's digestion is improved, and they remain healthy and happy.
Finally, the hay bag comes with a one-year limited manufacturer's warranty offered by Derby Originals. This warranty covers manufacturing defects, ensuring that you can buy with confidence. However, accidental damage or wear and tear are not covered under this warranty, so it's best to contact the manufacturer for more information.
7. Cashel Corner Feeder Holds Hay For Horses, Fits The Corner Of Horse Stalls And Trailers, Large
The Trailer Corner Feeder-Large is a highly convenient product that is specially designed to make your horse riding experience safer and more comfortable. This feeder is incredibly easy to install, and it comes with adjustable straps that allow for a variance of up to 4 inches. This means that you can easily customize the feeder to suit the size and needs of your horse.
One of the best things about this feeder is that it is manufactured by Cashel, a company that is renowned for creating products that are both affordable and of high quality. With this feeder, you can be sure that you are getting a product that is built to last and that will provide you with years of reliable use.
The Trailer Corner Feeder-Large is perfect for those who want to keep their horses fed and hydrated while on the go. It is made from sturdy materials that can withstand the wear and tear of daily use, and it is designed to fit snugly in the corner of your trailer. This not only saves space, but it also ensures that your horse can easily access the feed and water without any hassle.
8. Dura-Tech Green Hay Bag With Slow Feeder Holes.
The equine feeder is designed to reduce stall boredom and promote healthy grazing habits in horses. This feeder is perfect for horses that are confined indoors for prolonged periods. The slow grazing mechanism aids in encouraging normal intestinal function in horses, thus promoting their overall health.
With eight holes available for grazing, your horse can nibble on tasty flakes of hay anytime they want. The feeder features windows measuring 4” x 5” each, which makes it easy for the horse to access the hay. The feeder is built from 600D PVC coated polyester, which is a highly durable material that ensures longevity.
The equine feeder is sturdily built with metal rods on each side, ensuring that it stays in place while the horse is top loading. This feature also prevents the feeder from tipping over, which could be hazardous to the horse.
9. Derby Originals Superior Slow Feeder Horse Hay Bag With Super Tough Bottom And 1 Year Warranty
Introducing the Derby Originals Hay Bag, the perfect solution for horse owners who are looking for a durable and efficient way to feed their horses. This hay bag has a capacity of 2-3 flakes of Timothy, Orchard, Alfalfa, or any other type of hay, measuring 22x8x25" with 1.75" square openings. Derby Originals' design was created to minimize frustration and can be stuffed in seconds.
One of the key features of this hay bag is its exclusive patented 4-sided construction, which allows horses to eat from any part of the bag. This unique design eliminates the risk of material rips and tears commonly found in other hay bags, ensuring that your horse can enjoy their meal without any issues.
The Derby Originals Hay Bag also boasts a super tough bottom design, made of reinforced overlapping nylon webbing. This design provides superior strength and durability, allowing for long-lasting use. Additionally, the hay bag's design enables dust and debris to exit the bag while keeping the hay fresh.
Slow feeding is recommended by veterinarians to prevent gastric ulcers, colic, and boredom-related behavioral vices. With the Derby Originals Hay Bag, you can replicate your horse's natural grazing behavior for up to 18 hours a day, which can significantly improve their digestion.
Lastly, Derby Originals provides a 1-year limited manufacturer's warranty for this hay bag. This warranty guarantees that the product is free of manufacturing defects. However, accidental damage or wear and tear are not covered. Customers can contact the manufacturer for more information.
10. 30 Lb Slow Horse Feeder – Reduce Anxiety!
The Freedom Feeder nets are designed to help horse owners break free from their meal time routines, providing a healthier and happier lifestyle for both horse and owner. With these nets, horse owners can reduce anxiety and behavioral issues associated with meal times. The unique design allows horses to feed throughout the day, providing high fiber, low calorie forage. In addition, the nets enable owners to monitor their horse's forage consumption.
Crafted using top-of-the-line DuPont nylon netting, these feeders are extremely durable and can hold up to 30 lb. of hay. To make them easy to use, each feeder comes with two break-away carabiners for hanging or tie downs. Freedom Feeder nets are available in three mesh opening sizes to suit the feeding habits of every horse. The 1" net opening is designed for slow feeding, while the 1.5" net opening is ideal for average feeding or when transitioning to a feeding net. The 2" net opening is perfect for aggressive eaters and larger horses.
All Freedom Feeder products undergo a rigorous quality inspection to ensure maximum quality and durability. The company conducts tear tests and heat exposure experiments to examine all degrees of durability. They back up this testing with a quality guarantee, ensuring that customers receive only the best products.
Best Hay To Feed Horses FAQs
Are there any hay types to avoid when feeding a horse?
Yes, there are some types of hay that should be avoided when feeding horses. The first and foremost is moldy hay. Moldy hay can cause respiratory issues, colic, and other health problems in horses. It is also important to avoid hay that is too coarse or too rich in nutrients. Coarse hay can cause dental problems, while nutrient-rich hay can lead to obesity and other health issues.
Another type of hay to avoid is hay that is contaminated with weeds or toxic plants. Some plants, such as ragwort and hemlock, can be deadly to horses if ingested. It is important to inspect the hay for any traces of weeds or toxic plants before feeding it to horses.
Lastly, hay that is dusty or has a high level of pollen should also be avoided. This can lead to respiratory problems in horses, especially those with allergies or asthma.
In summary, it is important to choose good quality hay that is free of mold, weed, and toxic plants, and is not too coarse or rich in nutrients.
How can I tell if the hay I am feeding my horse is of good quality?
The quality of hay is a critical factor in your horse’s health and nutrition. Here are some key indicators to look for when assessing hay quality:
1. Color: Good quality hay should be greenish in color, indicating that it was harvested while still fresh.
2. Smell: The hay should smell fresh and sweet, with no musty or moldy odors.
3. Texture: Good quality hay should be soft, pliable, and free of dust, mold, and weeds.
4. Leaf-to-stem ratio: The more leaves and fewer stems in the hay, the better the quality.
5. Nutritional content: Have your hay tested by a laboratory to determine its nutritional content. This will help you ensure that your horse is getting the right balance of protein, fiber, and other essential nutrients.
By keeping these factors in mind and regularly checking your hay for quality, you can help ensure that your horse stays healthy and well-nourished.
How do I choose the best hay for my horse's specific needs?
Selecting the right type of hay for your horse is essential to ensure their overall health and wellbeing. The best hay for your horse depends on your horse's age, weight, activity level, and any health issues they may have.
First, consider the nutritional needs of your horse. Hay analysis is a crucial step in determining the nutritional content of the hay. The analysis will reveal the hay's protein, fiber, and mineral content, which will help you make the right decision.
Next, consider the physical characteristics of the hay. The hay should be free of mold, dust, and weeds. High-quality hay should be green, leafy, and have a fresh smell. Look for hay that is soft, pliable, and easy to chew.
Finally, consider your horse's specific needs. For example, if your horse has respiratory issues, choose hay that has low dust content. If your horse is overweight, choose hay that is lower in calories.
In summary, choosing the right hay for your horse requires careful consideration of nutritional content, physical characteristics, and your horse's specific needs. Consulting with a veterinarian or equine nutritionist can also be helpful in making the right decision.
How does the quality of hay impact a horse's health and performance?
The quality of hay plays a significant role in a horse's health and performance. Horses require a diet that is high in fiber, and hay is a primary source of fiber for them. The nutritional value of hay varies depending on factors such as the type of grass, the stage of growth, and the harvesting method. High-quality hay contains the correct balance of nutrients, including protein, carbohydrates, and essential minerals, to keep horses healthy and performing at their best.
Poor quality hay, on the other hand, can lead to a range of health issues such as colic, weight loss, and digestive problems. Overly mature or stemmy hay may be too tough for horses to chew, resulting in reduced feed intake and poor nutrient absorption. Hay that is dusty or moldy can also cause respiratory issues and other health problems.
In summary, it is crucial to provide horses with high-quality hay to maintain their health and performance. Regularly testing hay for nutritional content and ensuring it is free from mold and dust can help identify and prevent potential health issues.
How much hay should I feed my horse on a daily basis?
Feeding the right amount of hay to your horse is crucial to maintain its health and well-being. The amount of hay to feed your horse depends on various factors such as age, weight, activity level, and overall health. As a general rule of thumb, horses should be fed between 1.5 to 2.5% of their body weight in hay daily. This means that a 1000-pound horse should be fed between 15 to 25 pounds of hay per day. However, it is important to note that horses that are overweight or have a sedentary lifestyle may need less hay, while those that are underweight or have a high activity level may need more. Additionally, it is always a good idea to consult with a veterinarian or equine nutritionist to determine the specific nutritional needs of your horse and develop an appropriate feeding plan.
How often should I change the type of hay I am feeding my horse?
As a general rule, it is recommended to change the type of hay you feed your horse every few months. This helps to ensure that your horse is receiving a variety of nutrients and minerals necessary for their overall health. However, it is important to note that any change in your horse's diet should be made gradually to prevent digestive upset.
Before making any changes, it is important to consider your horse's individual needs and any health conditions they may have. For example, if your horse has a history of colic or laminitis, you may need to be more cautious when introducing new types of hay.
Additionally, it is important to monitor your horse's weight and overall health regularly to ensure that they are receiving the appropriate amount and type of hay. Consulting with a veterinarian or equine nutritionist can also be helpful in determining the best hay options for your horse's specific needs.
What are the benefits of feeding hay that is locally sourced?
Feeding hay that is locally sourced offers several benefits. Firstly, locally sourced hay is likely to be fresher and more nutritious as it has not undergone long periods of transport and storage. This means that the hay will contain higher levels of vitamins and minerals, which are essential for maintaining the health and wellbeing of livestock. Furthermore, buying hay locally supports local farmers and the economy by keeping money within the community.
Another advantage of feeding locally sourced hay is that it reduces the carbon footprint associated with transportation. This means that less fuel is consumed, resulting in lower greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, buying locally sourced hay reduces the risk of introducing invasive plants and weeds to your farm, which can be harmful to your livestock.
Moreover, locally sourced hay is often more affordable as it does not incur additional transportation costs. This can be particularly beneficial for small-scale farmers who may have limited budgets. In summary, feeding locally sourced hay is a sustainable and cost-effective solution that benefits both the environment and the local community.
What are the different types of hay available for horses and which is the best?
There are several types of hay available for horses, each with its own nutritional value and characteristics. The most common types of hay are timothy, alfalfa, orchard grass, and Bermuda grass. Timothy hay is a popular choice for horses as it is low in protein and high in fiber, which is essential for a healthy digestive system. Alfalfa hay, on the other hand, is high in protein and calcium, making it suitable for horses with high nutritional needs, such as growing foals or lactating mares. Orchard grass is another type of hay that is high in fiber and low in protein, making it a good choice for horses that require a low-protein diet. Bermuda grass hay is high in fiber and low in protein, making it a good choice for horses that need to maintain their weight.
The best type of hay for horses depends on their individual needs, such as their age, weight, and activity level. It's important to consult with a veterinarian or equine nutritionist to determine which type of hay is best for your horse's specific nutritional needs and to ensure that they are receiving a balanced diet.
What are the nutritional requirements of a horse and how can hay meet these requirements?
Horses have specific nutritional requirements that must be met in order to maintain optimal health and performance. These requirements include energy, protein, vitamins, minerals, and water. Hay is a primary source of nutrition for horses and can meet many of these requirements.
Hay is a good source of energy for horses, which is important for maintaining weight and providing fuel for exercise. It also contains protein, which is necessary for building and repairing tissues in the body. In addition, hay provides vitamins such as vitamin A, which is important for vision and immune function, and vitamin E, which is an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage.
Hay also contains minerals such as calcium and phosphorus, which are important for bone health, and potassium, which is important for muscle and nerve function. However, the nutrient content of hay can vary depending on the type of hay, the quality of the hay, and the stage of maturity at which it was harvested.
To ensure that a horse's nutritional requirements are being met, it is important to provide high-quality hay and to supplement with additional nutrients as needed. A veterinarian or equine nutritionist can help determine the specific nutritional needs of a horse and develop a feeding plan that meets those needs.
What type of hay is best for a horse's digestive system?
The type of hay that is best for a horse's digestive system is high-quality grass hay. Grass hay is a natural food source for horses and is easier for them to digest compared to legume hay. It also contains a balanced ratio of calcium and phosphorus, which is important for maintaining a healthy digestive system. Timothy, orchard grass, and brome are some of the common types of grass hay that are suitable for horses. It’s important to choose hay that is free from dust, mold, and other contaminants, as they can lead to respiratory issues and other health problems. Additionally, providing horses with access to fresh, clean water at all times is crucial for their digestive health. A balanced diet that includes high-quality hay, along with appropriate amounts of grains and supplements, can help ensure that horses maintain a healthy digestive system and overall well-being.
