Open Bale

[click to enlarge-400K]

For an explanation about the physical characteristics reported in the next table, please refer to the document Evaluation Guidelines for Hays for Horses (pdf).

Physical Characteristics

Reading a laboratory report - Lab results are usually reported on a Dry Matter and an As Fed or As Is basis. When comparing different hays, use the values reported as dry matter. After choosing the hay to feed your horse, use the as-fed or as-is values to calculate your horses diet.

Note: Other than the nutritional content taken from the report from the laboratory test, all comments and other information reflects only the authors’ opinion, and should not be extrapolated to all types of hays or horses. The information in these pages is for educational purposes and should be used only as a guideline.

Equine Digestible Energy and Crude Protein Content

Comments

The first impression looking at this hay might be that because of the seed heads present, it could be too mature and low in nutrients. It is important to note though that the seed heads are actually not too big and there are not very many. The lab results tell us that the energy is adequate for maintenance levels, and that the amount of protein is within the adequate range to provide adequate nutrition. It is very important to keep in mind that because it is soft and does not have any mold, it will be readily consumed by horses.

• Click here to read tables with energy and protein requirements and expected feed consumption of various types of horses (pdf).
• More detailed information of nutrient composition of this hay and how it meets the requirements of a horse.