8 Tips for Evaluating Hay

As the source of 50 to 90% of a healthy horse’s nutritional needs, hay warrants careful consideration as a precious commodity. This becomes especially true during the winter, when roughage in the diet is the main source of heat for the horse.

Generally, horses at rest in ambient temperatures of 70°F consume 2% of their body weight in roughage (hay) per day. A 1,100-pound horse will eat approximately 22 pounds of hay per day. A horse with a moderate hair coat starts requiring additional calories for body temperature regulation at approximately 50°F. Add about 2 pounds more hay for every 10-degree temperature drop. With wind and rain at near-freezing temperatures, the feed required increases by approximately 10-15 pounds to 32-47 pounds of hay per day!

If you’re purchasing hay for your horse this winter, remember that there’s no such thing as “the best hay” when it comes to the nutrient value. That all depends on your horse’s protein and energy requirements, which are ultimately determined by the individual’s age, stage of development, metabolism and workload. If you think your horse is too fat or too thin (or even if you are unsure), discuss the appropriate feeding recommendations with your veterinarian; they can help you formulate a balanced and cost-effective diet that meets your individual horse’s dietary requirements.

Finally, always keep in mind that water is critical for digestion, so be sure to monitor your horse’s water intake to minimize the chance of intestinal impactions!