Advice
Hay nets and slow feeding: what the studies say
A hay net spreads the ration over time. Here is what the available studies show.
Why slow down hay intake?
In its natural state, the horse spends most of its day grazing. In the stable, meals are often short and far apart. A hay net spreads the ration and comes closer to this rhythm.
What the studies show
- University of Minnesota: on the ground or with very large meshes, the hay was finished in 3.2 to 3.4 hours. With meshes of about 4.4 cm: a little over 5 hours. With meshes of about 2.5 cm: 6.5 hours.
- DeBoer et al. (2024): 13 horses, two years. Horses fed with a net had a lower weight and body condition than those fed without a net, and wasted less hay.
What about teeth?
The DeBoer et al. study did not observe any negative effect of nets on incisor length or on dental abnormalities. Regular dental checks are still recommended, with or without a net.
Keep in mind
- The studies involve few horses and nets from other manufacturers.
- They do not constitute a validation of our products.
A hay net does not replace the ration. Do not reduce the amount of hay you give without the advice of your vet or an equine nutritionist.
To go further: choose your mesh ; install, get used to and maintain your net.
Sources
- DeBoer M. et al. (2024). Effect of hay nets on horse bodyweight, body condition score, hay usage, and dental health in mature adult horses. Journal of Equine Veterinary Science.
- University of Minnesota Extension, trials on "slow feed" hay nets.
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