Pros and Cons of Using Hay Nets

A new study is trending thanks to Kentucky Equine Research and it has horse owners concerned about using hay nets due to the increased risk of neck or back injuries.

Don’t let this headline and study deter you from using hay nets to feed your horses… I’m here to tell you that you can still use hay nets or explore other slow feeding options.

Slow feeding forage is incredibly important for your horses gut and mental health. If your horse is going more than a few hours without access to forage, they are at increased risk for developing ulcers, behavioral issues and resource guarding habits.

While it is important to remain aware of the impacts that hay nets can have on our horses bodies, it’s also important that you use them correctly!

🔅Use the correct net sizing for your hay.

🔅 Gradually change to smaller netting.

🔅Change the location of hay nets often.

🔅Change the position of hay nets often. Hang them from different heights.

🔅Use The Hay Pillow, Inc. which is a canvas backed hay net that is fed on the ground.

🔅Consider using another slow feeder such as the savvy feeder, portagrazer, or haygain forager.

There are several other posts on our website about different types of slow feeders, using nets correctly, and how to succeed so that your horse can do well on a forage based (grain free) diet.