Horse Hay Feeders — Reduce Forage Waste And Prevent Spoilage

The use of hay feeders will reduce forage waste and prevent hay products from becoming spoiled. Use the information below when shopping for feeders and maintaining each one that you purchase.

Wasted Forage

Hay, grass, or any other forage product that your horses consume is likely considered an essential part of their daily diet. Your horses may be accustomed to being provided with access to forage frequently or on a continuous basis.

If you spend a lot of money to feed your horses, you may want to be more mindful of the hay that is wasted. If you normally pour hay onto the ground or add it to shallow troughs, it is likely that some hay has gotten wet before. Hay may have also blown away or spilled out of the shallow feeders.

Hay Feeders

Hay feeders are waterproof units that can be set up indoors or outdoors. They are suited for feeding animals while they are housed inside a barn. They are also equipped to handle the feeding needs of large groups of animals.

Hay feeders often contain nets or wire mesh that will prevent hay from spilling onto the ground. Nets and wire mesh are also used to control how quickly an animal is able to retrieve food.

Since a horse will need to pull the hay out through the openings in a net or mesh material, they won't be able to grab large sections of hay at once. Since only a small amount of hay will be able to fit through each opening, forage waste won't be extreme.

Spoilage Protection

A quality hay feeder will be constructed of materials that will prevent hay from becoming wet. This type of feeder may feature rain guards or a cover. Spoilage protection is critical when ensuring that your horses are fed a healthy and consistent diet.

Investing in one or more hay feeders that will keep hay dry will prevent forage waste. As a result, you will not need to replenish your horses' forage as often as you used to. You may also reduce the overall cost associated with feeding your horses.

Cleaning Essentials

A nonporous hay feeder should be disinfected in between feedings. A gentle cleanser and a soft sponge can be used to wipe off the exterior and interior parts of each horse hay feeder that you purchase.

After rinsing the hay feeders, they need to air dry or be wiped off with an absorbent cloth. Hay can be added to each hay feeder after each one has been cleaned and dried properly.

Reach out to a company like Western Pro Feeders to learn more.