Tips for Using Hay Nets

THE TRANSITION

It is very important to note that a transition period should take place when going from tossing loose hay to providing hay in slowfeeders or nets. Horses can become frustrated and agitated when you suddenly make the switch to a bag with small netting. When introducing a net or slow feeder, you should provide your horse with both their regular loose hay in addition to the net. Observe your horse while eating and then transition to just the slow feeder.

The Netting

Be selective in your net choice! It can depend on the type of hay you are feeding but most of the time you’ll want to be sure to start with larger netting and then transition to smaller netting holes as they get used to slow feeding.

If you’re feeding a thicker hay with a lot of stems such as alfalfa they may need larger holes to remove it.

Small holes will keep your horse eating for a longer period of time, but too small of netting, with the wrong type of hay, can frustrate and deter your horse from eating out of them all together which just perpetuates the cycle we are trying to break.

Gradually reduce the net sizing and select appropriately based on your type of hay to avoid frustrating your horse.

Various Locations

Offer multiple nets and rotate them to various areas and at different heights! This is not only beneficial for your horses mental stimulation but also helps to ensure they are eating in different positions.