THIS week, the Paulick Report published an article titled, “Hay In Nets Vs. Hay On The Ground”, featuring insights from Dr Kate Christie of Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital. The discussion centered on the advantages and potential drawbacks of using hay nets compared to traditional ground feeding methods for horses.

Advantages of hay nets

Hay nets offer several benefits in equine management:

  • Reduced hay wastage: By confining hay within a net, horses are less likely to trample or soil their feed, leading to more efficient consumption.
  • Controlled intake: Hay nets can slow down rapid eaters, promoting a more moderated feeding pace. This is particularly beneficial for horses prone to obesity, as it helps in managing their weight by extending feeding times.
  • Gastric health: Consistent access to forage through hay nets may aid in the prevention and management of gastric ulcers, as continuous grazing aligns with a horse’s natural feeding behaviour.

    • Considerations and potential drawbacks

    Despite these advantages, certain factors must be considered:

  • Respiratory health: Studies have indicated that horses fed from hay nets may experience increased exposure to airborne particulates compared to those fed hay on the ground. This heightened exposure can be detrimental to horses with inflammatory airway conditions. To mitigate this risk, steaming hay before placing it in nets is recommended.
  • Postural concerns: Feeding from elevated hay nets can compel horses to adopt unnatural eating positions, potentially causing stress and strain on the back and neck. This is especially concerning for horses with specific throat abnormalities or those recovering from certain surgeries, as they may struggle to protect their airway effectively when feeding from a height.
  • Ophthalmologic risks: High-hung hay nets, particularly during transportation, can increase the risk of corneal ulceration due to hay and particulate matter entering the eyes. This risk is exacerbated in windy conditions.
  • Safety hazards: Improper use of hay nets can lead to entanglement, especially in foals or horses with shoes. Ensuring that hay nets are appropriately secured and regularly checked is crucial to prevent accidents.

    • Additional studies have explored the impact of hay nets on horses:

  • Chiropractic health: A study involving 13 horses assessed the effects of feeding from round bales with and without hay nets over a year. Findings revealed that horses using hay nets exhibited a 1.6-point increase in cervical misalignment severity. However, these horses also demonstrated a 5-degree greater cervical range of motion. This suggests that, while hay nets may influence neck alignment, they might simultaneously enhance flexibility, possibly due to strengthened neck muscles.
  • Dental health: Research investigated the long-term effects of hay nets on dental health. Over a two-year period, 13 horses were alternately fed hay exclusively from nets and loose on the ground. The study concluded that hay nets did not negatively impact dental health, as no significant differences in incisor length or dental abnormalities were observed between the two feeding methods.

    • The decision to use hay nets should be tailored to each horse’s individual needs and circumstances. While hay nets offer benefits, such as reduced wastage and controlled intake, they also present potential challenges related to respiratory health, posture, eye safety, and entanglement risks. Consulting with a veterinarian can provide personalised guidance, ensuring that feeding practices align with the health and well-being of each horse.