Many horse owners who have been researching nutrition for their horse may have considered slow-feed hay nets before, but they have been left wondering, “are slow feed hay nets good for horses?” or are they just another gimmick? They are actually far from that.
Forage intake and feeding speed make a huge difference in promoting a healthy gut for your horse, with an estimated 1.5-2.5% of their body weight ideally being consumed through foraging. Slow feed hay nets are the modern solution to this, allowing owners to control exactly what their horse forages, as well as the weights. Nibbleze has been supplying yards up and down the country with slow feed solutions for years.
Horses’ natural grazing behaviour suggests they should consume small amounts of food frequently, mirroring that of their wild counterparts. However, with traditional consumption of hay, they are unlikely to achieve this grazing behaviour, while also causing issues such as constipation and reduced saliva production, among other problems. This is why forage trickle feeding has become more popular, as it is not only healthier for your horse but also mimics their wild habits.
A slow feed hay net is a net with holes, filled with hay, that is designed to slow down the rate at which horses eat. This is so that it mirrors their wild behaviours and needs to forage trickle feed.
The small holes force the horse to slow down, limiting how much they can consume in each mouthful.
There are several key benefits of slow feed hay nets for your horse. Below are some of the standout benefits.
Slow feed hay nets encourage saliva production, as opposed to reducing it. This helps reduce colic risk and gastric ulcers. All things you want to avoid.
They also encourage the maintenance of a healthy weight for your horse. Slower consumption without reducing forage access all contribute to a healthy equine diet.
Slow feed hay nets are also good for equine enrichment. They keep horses occupied for longer. As a result, they can also help reduce cribbing, weaving, and box walking.
They are also great for your wallet. Less hay waste thanks to the design of the nets, meaning minimal amounts fall on the floor and out of the bedding.
Yes, slow feed hay nets are safe for horses. We’ve covered the benefits above. In order to maintain their safety, ensure the net is well looked after, with the correct hole size selected for your horse. For guidance on this, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us. Our knotless design further protects your horse from any dental issues.
Browse our range of knotless slow feed hay nets.
Put simply, slow feed hay nets make a great addition to any yard, as your horse will benefit greatly from them. They put your horse’s nutrition and well-being at the forefront, making them an easy purchase. If you’re looking for knotless slow feed hay nets designed with your horse in mind, why not try Nibbleze? Browse our range of slow feed hay nets today.
If you have any questions, please get in touch with us.