Forage is the main component of a healthy equine diet. Here are hay accessories for horses to make feeding it a little easier.
Prioritizing safety, the spacing prevents horses from getting a hoof stuck in the feeder, while the smooth, rounded top loops discourage excessive mane rubbing. The loop legs are designed to not sink into soft surfaces. This feeder also prevents waste through the hay-saver panel and is designed to withstand even the harshest of outdoor environments. $349.99; www.ruralking.com
Haygain steamers are designed to kill mold, fungal spores, yeast, and bacteria often found in hay, creating a palatable meal that enhances digestibility and nutrition. The Haygain HG600 steamer also triples the water content of the hay for added hydration. Steaming reduces airborne dust by nearly 98%, reducing a horse’s susceptibility to inflammatory airway disease by 65%. $1,749.00; www.haygain.us
This nylon rolling bale bag will allow you to easily transport and store your hay, protecting it from debris like dust and dirt. This bag is water-resistant and provides ventilation and breathability for your hay. Four wheels and sturdy handles make moving even large bales easy. Monogramming available. $69.95 (monogram $8.95 extra); www.doversaddlery.com
Made exclusively for SmartPak, this hay bag features 1.5-inch netting to slow consumption and is padded by Textilene on the sides and bottom to prevent unnecessary hay waste. Has adjustable/detachable straps and closeable lid. $69.99-$79.99 depending on size; www.smartpakequine.com
This on-the-road portable feeder is made of 600-denier nylon, adjustable closer straps, and large lid opening for easy-to-manage filling. Even if you choose not to use a bottom tray for grain, this bag is effective in preventing your horse’s hay from being trampled on the ground. $28.49; www.statelinetack.com
This three-in-one stall corner feeder offers three sections: one large center cavity for hay, and two smaller side cavities for salt and grain. This feeder is designed to reside on the ground so that your horse can eat naturally with his head down in a comfortable grazing position. $575.95-$1,159.95 depending on size; www.smartpakequine.com
Designed to stand up to heavy use in a barn or boarding facility, the polyethylene pan, powder-coated metals, and aluminum alloy frame fight barn acids in harsh environments. This Smart Cart is easy to maneuver, with a well-balanced design and wheels. $439.95-$539.95 depending on size; www.smartpakequine.com
This article about hay accessories for horses appeared in the July 2020 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!
Emma Dorsey is a fourth-year English major with a concentration in creative writing at the University of California, Los Angeles. Dorsey is incredibly passionate about horses; she spends time at her local barn volunteering and enjoys any opportunity to go on a trail ride. She also lived and worked in Skyros, Greece, for a summer, where she learned about and cared for Skyrian horses. She hopes to become an editor at a major publishing house one day.
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