Hay is a crucial component of a horse’s diet, offering essential nutritional benefits. It primarily serves as a source of roughage, which is vital for the digestive health of horses. Hay provides digestible protein and carbohydrates, with the specific nutritional content varying based on the type of hay, such as legume or grass hay. Choosing high-quality hay is essential to ensure horses receive the necessary nutrients for their overall health and well-being.
What Makes Hay Nutritious for Horses?
Hay is created by drying grasses or legumes, ideally harvested just before the seed develops to maximize digestible protein and carbohydrates. This drying process reduces the moisture content to below 18%, preventing mold and spoilage during storage. The nutritional value of hay depends on the type of plant, its maturity, and how it was processed.
Legume Hays
Legume hays, such as alfalfa and clovers, are high in protein, making them particularly beneficial for horses needing a protein-rich diet. High-quality legume hays, especially early bloom alfalfa, are excellent for growing or lactating horses.
Grass Hays
Grass hays, including timothy, orchard grass, and bluegrass, are lower in protein compared to legume hays. Early horsemen favored these hays for racehorses because they were typically free from mold and dust and slowed the passage through the intestinal tract. However, because they are low in digestible energy and protein, grass hays must be adequately supplemented.
How Does Hay Composition Vary?
The composition of hay varies significantly based on the type