Best Practices for Feeding Horses Hay: Equine Nutrition

Last updated: August 1, 2024

By: Miles HenryFact Checked

As a horse owner, I know firsthand how important it is to feed my racehorses properly. Recently, while chatting with some other owners at the barn, we got on the topic of feeding hay. “I never knew there was so much to consider when choosing hay,” a new horse owner commented. This is true.

Proper hay feeding is not just about filling a feeder; it’s about ensuring your horse gets the right nutrients to maintain optimal health and performance. The quality and type of hay can significantly impact a horse’s digestive health, energy levels, and behavior.

In this article, I cover everything you need to know about feeding horses hay, including insights from equine research, strategies for choosing the right hay for your horse, and best practices for feeding hay to promote optimal health. Let’s get started.

Why Hay is Essential for Optimal Horse Health

Forage, including grass, hay, and other vegetation, is essential for a horse’s diet, providing the fiber, vitamins, and minerals needed for optimal health. Hay is particularly vital for horses without pasture access or when grass is unavailable, offering a convenient and consistent nutrition source that can be stored and fed year-round.

Choosing and feeding hay properly ensures horses receive the necessary nutrients and avoid health problems. High-quality hay can:

• Help prevent colic, a common and potentially fatal digestive disorder.
• Maintain healthy teeth by providing the necessary abrasion to prevent dental overgrowth.
• Prevent behavioral problems, such as cribbing and wood-chewing, which can arise from insufficient fiber intake or boredom.

Given the importance of hay in a horse’s diet, it is crucial for horse owners to understand how to choose and feed it correctly.

Importance of Fiber and Hay Nutrition

Fiber is crucial in a horse’s diet. When horses consume fiber, it passes through their digestive system and is broken down by bacteria in the hindgut. This process produces volatile fatty acids, which are absorbed by the horse and used for energy. Fiber also:

• Regulates food passage through the digestive system.
• Prevents blockages.
• Promotes healthy gut motility.

Hay provides essential nutrition for horses, including:

• Fiber
• Protein
• Carbohydrates
• Vitamins
• Minerals

Different types of hay offer varying fiber contents:

• Grass Hay: Typically higher in fiber, suitable for most horses.
• Alfalfa Hay: Higher in protein, ideal for growing or working horses.

Choosing the right hay based on your horse’s specific needs—such as age, weight, and activity level—is vital for their health and well-being.

Digestive System of Horses and the Role of Hay

Horses have a unique digestive system adapted to break down and utilize fiber. As hindgut fermenters, most of their digestion occurs in their large intestines rather than their stomach. This adaptation allows horses to:

• Break down tough plant material.
• Extract necessary nutrients.
• Maintain healthy gut function.
• Prevent digestive problems such as colic and gastric ulcers.

Choosing the Right Hay: Insights from Equine Research

Equine research has provided valuable insights into the nutritional value of different types of hay and how to choose the best hay for your horse’s needs. Studies have shown that the nutritional content of hay can vary greatly depending on factors such as the type of plant, stage of growth, and harvesting methods.

Key Findings from Research

Nutritional Variability:

• The nutritional content of hay varies based on the plant type, growth stage, and harvesting methods.

Moisture Levels:

• A study from the University of Minnesota highlighted that hay baled at higher moisture levels retains more nutrients. This finding emphasizes the importance of proper baling techniques to maintain hay’s nutritional value (UMN Extension).

New Forage Types:

• Research has highlighted the benefits of new types of forage, such as sainfoin, which is non-GMO and organic. Sainfoin supports the equine microbiome and helps reduce the need for pesticides and herbicides, offering nutritional and environmental benefits (Cheshire Horse).

Mold and Dust:

• It is crucial to select hay free of mold, dust, and weeds. Moldy hay can contain harmful toxins that cause respiratory problems and other health issues in horses. Dusty hay can contribute to respiratory irritation and the development of heaves, a chronic respiratory disease (UMN Extension, Iowa State University).

Feeding Preferences:

• Equine research has explored horses’ feeding habits and preferences. Horses prefer softer hay with a higher leaf-to-stem ratio, suggesting they naturally prefer more digestible and nutrient-dense hay (Iowa State University).

By incorporating insights from these studies into your hay selection and feeding practices, you can ensure that your horse receives the proper nutrition and promotes optimal health.

By incorporating insights from these studies into your hay selection and feeding practices, you can ensure that your horse receives the proper nutrition and promotes optimal health.

Types of Hay

Choosing the right type and quality of hay is essential for ensuring your horse receives the proper nutrition. Different types of hay have different nutritional values, so it’s important to understand their differences and how they can meet your horse’s needs.

Common Types of Hay

• Grass Hay:
  • Made from various grasses, including timothy, orchard, and brome.
  • Typically higher in fiber and lower in protein and calcium than other types of hay.
  • Learn more about timothy and other grass hays.
• Alfalfa Hay:
  • Made from the alfalfa plant.
  • Higher in protein, calcium, and other minerals than grass hay.
  • Suitable for horses with higher nutritional requirements, such as growing or working horses.
• Mixed Hay:
  • A combination of different types of hay.
  • Can provide a balance of nutrients and fiber.

Selecting the Right Hay for Your Horse

When selecting hay for your horse, consider its nutritional needs and choose hay that meets those needs:

• For Horses Prone to Colic:
  • Choose hay that is lower in protein and higher in fiber to promote healthy gut function.
• For Performance Horses:
  • Choose hay that is higher in protein and energy to support their activity level.

Quality of Hay

• High-quality hay should be:
  • Free of mold, dust, and weeds.
  • Fresh, green in color.
  • Sweet-smelling.
  • Baled at the proper moisture level and stored correctly to retain its nutritional value.

Horse Preferences

• Consider your horse’s individual preferences and eating habits:
  • Some horses prefer softer, leafier hay.
  • Others may prefer coarser, stemmier hay.

Offering a variety of hay types and brands can help ensure that your horse is getting the nutrients it needs and prevent boredom and behavioral problems.

By understanding the different types of hay available and how to choose the right hay for your horse’s needs, you can ensure that your horse is receiving the proper nutrition and promoting optimal health.

Responsible Horse Care Includes Knowing How to Feed Horses Hay

Feeding horses hay is not just about filling a feeder; it’s about ensuring your horse gets the right nutrients to maintain optimal health and performance. Here are practical feeding tips and best practices:

Best Hay Feeding Practices:

1. Free Access to Hay:
   • Providing horses free access to hay throughout the day allows them to graze and eat small, frequent meals. This practice mimics their natural grazing behavior and supports healthy digestion. (UMN Extension)
   • Use slow feeders or hay nets to regulate the speed at which your horse consumes hay. This can help prevent respiratory issues caused by mold and dust and reduce the risk of colic.
2. Understanding Portion Sizes:
   • The amount of hay your horse needs depends on factors such as weight, age, activity level, and nutritional requirements. A general rule of thumb is to provide 1.5% to 2% of your horse’s body weight in hay daily.
   • Consult with a veterinarian or equine nutritionist to determine the appropriate amount for your horse. (University of Florida).
3. Feeding Frequency:
   • Ideally, horses should have free access to hay throughout the day. If this is not possible, feed hay at least three times a day to promote healthy gut function and prevent digestive problems.(Iowa State University).
4. Feeding Methods:
   • Avoid feeding hay directly on the ground to reduce the risk of contamination from dirt and manure and prevent sand ingestion in horses grazing on sandy soils. Using hay nets or slow feeders can help maintain cleaner hay and promote slower, more natural eating habits.(UMN Extension).

The Best Way to Feed Hay to Horses Outside:

• Ground Conditions:
  • If the ground is grassy and dry, feed hay on the ground to mimic natural grazing. If the soil is sandy or gravelly, use a hay net to elevate hay off the ground and prevent sand ingestion, which can lead to impaction colic.
• Pecking Order:
  • Horses establish a pecking order that can affect access to hay. To ensure all horses get enough hay, separate dominant horses into different paddocks or distribute multiple small hay piles at least 15 feet apart.
• Encourage Movement:
  • Spread hay in multiple separate piles to encourage movement, which mimics natural grazing behavior and promotes efficient digestion.
• Cover Large Round Bales:
  • Protect hay from rain, snow, and other elements to prevent mold and maintain its nutritional value. Use covers or store hay under shelter.

By elevating hay off the ground on sandy or gravelly soil, separating problem horses, and encouraging movement through multiple hay piles, you can help ensure your horses receive the proper nutrition they need while feeding outside.

Understanding Small Square Hay Bales and Their Nutritional Value

Small square hay bales are popular for horse owners due to their convenience and ease of use. These bales typically weigh between 40 and 75 pounds and are easy to handle and store. However, there are also some disadvantages to using small square hay bales that are important to consider.

Advantages of Small Square Hay Bales

• Ease of Handling:
  • Ideal for those without access to heavy machinery needed for larger round bales.
  • Easy to handle and feed, making them suitable for individual horse owners.
• Storage:
  • Can be easily stored in barns or sheds.
  • Stackable, which helps save space.

Disadvantages of Small Square Hay Bales

• Cost:
  • Higher cost per pound compared to larger round bales.
  • Requires more labor to handle and feed, increasing overall effort and expense.
• Susceptibility to Moisture and Mold:
  • They are more prone to moisture and mold, impacting their nutritional value and quality.
  • Proper storage is essential to prevent spoilage.

Nutritional Value

The nutritional value of small square hay bales can vary greatly depending on the type of hay and how it was harvested and stored. Generally, small square hay bales are a good source of:

• Fiber:
  • Essential for maintaining healthy gut function and preventing digestive issues.
• Protein:
  • Important for muscle development and overall health, particularly for growing or working horses.
• Vitamins and Minerals:
  • Provide essential nutrients for a horse’s overall health and well-being.

Choosing the Best Small Square Hay Bales

When selecting small square hay bales for your horse, consider the following factors:

• Type of Hay:
  • Different types of hay (e.g., alfalfa, timothy, bermudagrass) offer varying levels of nutrients.
• Maturity of the Plant:
  • The nutritional content changes as the plant matures; younger plants generally have higher nutritional value.
• Harvest and Storage:
  • Ensure the hay was harvested at the right time and stored properly to retain its nutritional value.
  • High-quality hay should be free of mold, dust, and weeds, and have a fresh, green color and a sweet smell.

Summary

Small square hay bales can be a good option for feeding horses, especially those with smaller barns or limited storage space. By understanding the advantages and disadvantages of small square hay bales and how to choose the best quality hay, you can help ensure that your horse receives the proper nutrition and promotes optimal health.

Hay Storage and Handling

Proper storage and handling of hay are essential for maintaining its nutritional value and quality and preventing contamination and waste. Here are some key practices:

Steps for Proper Hay Storage:

1. Selecting a Suitable Location:
   • Store hay in a dry, well-ventilated area protected from moisture and pests. Ideal storage locations include barns, sheds, or covered hay storage areas.
2. Stacking Hay Properly:
   • Stack hay in a pyramid shape to promote air circulation and prevent moisture buildup. Ensure that the bales at the base form a solid foundation, with the bales at the top leaning inward to form a peak.
3. Handling Hay Correctly:
   • Wear gloves and other protective gear to prevent skin irritation and allergic reactions when handling hay. Use hay hooks or other specialized tools to move hay bales to prevent damage and minimize dust and debris.
4. Preventing Contamination:
   • Store hay away from other materials, such as fertilizer or pesticides. Keep hay off the ground on pallets or other raised surfaces to avoid contamination. Regularly inspect hay for signs of mold or spoilage and remove any contaminated bales.

Benefits of Proper Hay Storage and Handling:

• Maintaining Nutritional Value:
  • Proper storage helps retain the hay’s nutritional content, ensuring your horse receives high-quality feed.
• Preventing Health Issues:
  • Prevents mold growth and dust accumulation, which can cause respiratory problems and other health issues in horses.
• Minimizing Waste:
  • Proper storage and handling reduce spoilage and wastage, making your hay supply last longer and saving costs.

By following these strategies for proper hay storage and handling, you can help ensure that your horse receives high-quality hay that promotes optimal health and nutrition while also minimizing waste and preventing contamination.

Here is a good YouTube video explaining how to use hay bags:

Frequently Asked Questions about Feeding Horses Hay

Conclusion

Feeding hay is a critical component of horse care, particularly for beginners learning how to properly care for their horse’s nutritional needs. By understanding horses’ nutritional requirements, choosing the right hay, and implementing the best feeding strategies, horse owners can ensure their horses receive the nutrients they need. Proper hay storage and handling are also essential to prevent waste and contamination.

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced horse owner, these tips can help you care for your horse and keep them healthy and happy. Here are specific steps you can take next:

1. Consult with a Veterinarian or Equine Nutritionist: Get personalized advice tailored to your horse’s specific needs. They can help you determine the right type and amount of hay and identify any potential nutritional gaps.
2. Conduct a Hay Analysis: Consider having your hay tested by a forage testing lab to understand its nutritional content better. This can help ensure it meets your horse’s dietary requirements.
3. Implement Best Storage Practices: Follow the guidelines for proper hay storage to maintain its quality and nutritional value. This includes keeping hay dry, well-ventilated, and protected from pests.
4. Monitor Your Horse’s Health: Regularly observe your horse for any signs of digestive issues, respiratory problems, or changes in behavior that may indicate a problem with their diet.
5. Stay Informed: Continue learning about horse nutrition and care. Visit our website for more in-depth articles and resources on horse care and nutrition.

Your proactive approach to feeding can significantly improve your horse’s overall well-being. If you have any questions or need further guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out to experts in the field. Your horse’s health is worth the effort.