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

Equine Digestible Energy and Crude Protein Content

Comments

This is GOOD HORSE HAY!
Very typical horse hay, even though it is fairly mature, it tested well, the horses ate it well and did good on it. Hay that is a little on the mature side will keep horses eating and chewing for a longer period or time. This has several positive results: the larger amount of saliva being produced helps reduce the incidence of digestive problems such as ulcers and acid stomach, and the horse is entertained chewing hay instead of chewing wood (aka cribbing!!). Multiple feedings will also do the same trick, unfortunately it may not be practical to feed the horses very many times each day.

This particular hay was baled in large square bales, which can be a hassle because it is necessary to have the appropriate equipment to move it and the right size storage area.

• 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.