Hay (or hay substitute) forms a large part of most horse’s diets throughout the winter months and, in some cases, is the only real additional feed that a horse or pony receives. There are different ways to feed hay, depending on the horse and his requirements…

Steamed
Steaming hay can significantly reduce dust and mould spores.  The benefits of steaming hay are similar to steaming vegetables in that none of the nutrients are lost in the steaming process. Steaming hay, therefore, not only retains the valuable nutrients of the hay but helps prevent respiratory problems. For this reason, it’s most popular with owners of horses with compromised respiratory systems, and competition horses might also be fed steamed hay too, to help facilitate optimum performance.

Soaked
Soaking the hay reduces the sugars in the hay and can be useful for horses suffering from laminitis and insulin resistance.  Soaked hay needs to be fed as soon as possible after soaking to stop it getting mouldy.  Hay needs to be soaked for the correct amount of time as soaking for too long can make it less palatable and decrease its fibre content and remove valuable nutrients. Soaking can also reduce dust and mould spores, so it’s another option for horses with respiratory issues.

Hay nets
Hay nets, whether made with dry, wet or steamed hay,slow down consumption so that the hay lasts longer…in fact, you can get haynets with really small squares to further slow intake. Grazing constantly means the horse is less likely to develop digestive problems but using a net means the horse eats less so is less likely to eat too much! Another benefit is that hay is less likely to be wasted through being trampled on.  However, eye level eating is not ideal for horse’s neck muscles; horses are designed to eat with their heads down. Floor level hay nets are available, however.

Floor
Horses naturally need to eat in a downward position that stretches their back and neck muscles. Eating in this position also has dental advantages; the food can be ground properly and mixed with saliva. The horse can eat slowly in its natural eating position meaning digestion is better. Finally, the horse feels in a completely relaxed and natural state when eating from the floor as he can see all around himself.  This can result in behavioural benefits.