Guide

A benchmark based on weight and activity

Here is a table providing general guidelines for hay of decent quality, distributed as a full ration (without access to grass). Always adjust according to your horse’s body condition.

For a horse at rest or in light work, the required amount of hay will be at the lower end of the range, while for a horse in work, it will be at the higher end (with appropriate supplementary feeding). A horse with access to grass will require less hay.

Special cases to monitor

Certain horses require special attention:

• Overweight horses or those prone to laminitis or EMS: the amount of hay must be reduced, while remaining vigilant about consumption time, as prolonged fasting is bad for the stomach. A small-mesh net (30mm) helps slow down hay intake and thus spreads the ration throughout the day. See our article: https://filetafoin.com/le-syndrome-metabolique-equin-sme/
• The senior horse: depending on the state of their teeth, they may have difficulty chewing hay that is too coarse. They therefore need high-quality, ad-lib hay. A 65 mm mesh net is ideal.
• Pregnant or lactating mares: their needs increase. Veterinary advice is recommended.
• The stabled horse at rest: Without occupation, they eat quickly and then spend hours with nothing to chew. Hay provided continuously limits boredom and behaviors such as stable vices or aggression, as well as digestive problems.

Ad-lib hay or measured ration: which to choose?

Ad-lib hay most closely matches the horse’s natural rhythm, as they need to chew continuously. However, horses do not always know how to self-regulate. For this, they need help with a hay net and an appropriate mesh size.

A measured ration allows for controlled intake, but it has a drawback: the horse finishes its hay in a few hours and then remains fasted until the next meal. We know today that long periods without forage are harmful.

Between the two, slow feeding is a good compromise: the same amount of hay, but consumed much more slowly. The horse eats for longer, more regularly, and the hay does not end up soiled in the bedding.

You can consult our article for more details: https://filetafoin.com/filet-et-slowfeeding/

How a hay net helps you respect the ration

A hay net does not change the amount of hay distributed, but it changes how it is consumed. The choice of mesh depends on the objective:

• 65 mm mesh: equivalent to ad-lib hay. It limits waste and dust inhalation without significantly slowing down food intake. Ideal for preventing waste and helping to prevent respiratory diseases.
• 45 mm mesh: has a slight slow-feeding effect. It prevents gluttony and waste, and is well-suited for slightly overweight horses. This is the most common mesh size.
• 30 mm mesh: high slow-feeding effect, to be reserved for horses already accustomed to nets and particularly for overweight horses or those with a pathology.

A net prevents waste by stopping the horse from trampling or scattering its hay: on average, a saving of about 30% of hay is observed. Feelnets are made of knotless polyester, a material that does not become rough, does not retain water, and does not freeze. They are OEKO-TEX Standard 100 Class I certified.

Practical tips for dosing your hay correctly

1. Weigh your hay: a simple luggage scale is enough.
2. Divide into several distributions: at least two to three per day, ideally with hay always available via a net. The simplest way is to find the net and mesh size that works best to minimize refilling while regulating hay consumption.
3. Monitor body condition: a horse’s general condition is assessed by sight and touch (ribs, withers, croup). Adjust the ration according to their needs.
4. Check hay quality: good smell, absence of mold and excessive dust. Dusty hay is bad for the respiratory tract. Moldy hay must be thrown away.
5. Change gradually: any modification to the ration or type of hay should be done over several days.

FAQ: your questions about hay quantity

How much hay should be given to a horse per day?
On average, between 1.5 and 2% of its live weight in dry forage, which is 7.5 to 10 kg per day for a 500 kg horse. The exact amount depends on hay quality, activity, climate, and body condition.

How much hay per day for a pony?
For a 300 kg pony, count on about 4.5 to 6 kg of hay per day. Ponies gain weight easily: monitor their body condition and use a small-mesh net if necessary.

Can you give a horse ad-lib hay?
Yes, for many horses, this is the solution closest to their natural lifestyle. It is not suitable for greedy or overweight horses; a measured ration and slowed consumption via a net is preferred.

Does a hay net reduce the amount of hay consumed?
It slows down food intake and limits waste (about 30% hay saved on average), but it does not reduce the horse’s needs. Above all, it allows the ration to be spread throughout the day.

Which mesh size should I choose to slow down my horse?
The 45 mm mesh provides a slight slow-feeding effect, while the 30 mm mesh has a more pronounced effect (to be introduced gradually). The 65 mm mesh is suitable for ad-lib hay.

What should I do if my horse finishes its hay too quickly?
A small-mesh net is the primary solution. You can also divide the ration into several distributions. Our article on the greedy horse details the causes and solutions: https://filetafoin.com/cheval-glouton-pourquoi-mange-t-il-si-vite-et-comment-le-ralentir/

To go further: discover our range of hay nets, tested with veterinarians and equestrian center professionals, as well as our guide for choosing the right net size (https://filetafoin.com/choisir-taille-filet/). Free delivery in France, personalized quote in less than 3 hours.

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Compatibility with hay processing machines

Feelnets hay nets are also designed to withstand hay processing machines, including Haygain-type steaming systems https://www.acheval.fr/fr/boutique/categories-72/equipements-sante-75/purificateurs-foin-haygain-83/pics-diffusion-165/. This equipment subjects materials to repeated cycles of intense moisture, high heat, and condensation—conditions that are particularly demanding for textile fibers. Thanks to its thermal stability and low sensitivity to hydrolysis, polyester retains its mechanical strength and shape even after many treatment cycles. Unlike some materials that warp, stretch, or become brittle under the combined effects of heat and moisture, Feelnets nets maintain their structural integrity, ensuring long-lasting, safe use in modern hay preparation protocols.

Durability, safety, and everyday performance

Finally, its good abrasion resistance ensures optimal hold up against daily friction from teeth, hay, and surrounding structures. This robustness contributes to the animal’s safety while extending the product’s service life. By choosing polyester, Feelnets is opting for a material that balances durability, stability, and safety, meeting users’ practical requirements as well as the horses’ well-being.

Health Consequences of Rapid Ingestion

This feeding behavior leads to serious health problems in horses.

First, the most immediate danger is “esophageal choke”: by swallowing large mouthfuls without sufficient chewing, the hay can get stuck.

But long-term consequences are more serious. A horse that eats too fast doesn’t chew enough and therefore produces less saliva. However, saliva is the only antacid the horse has to buffer the permanent acidity of its stomach. A meal swallowed in 30 minutes instead of 3 hours means an empty stomach for long periods, which promotes the development of gastric ulcers. Furthermore, this massive and rapid influx of food disrupts the entire digestive system, significantly increasing the risk of colic and promoting weight gain.

First Steps to Regulate Feeding Rhythm

Fortunately, there are solutions you can implement to help your horse regain a healthier and slower feeding rhythm. The first approach is to divide meals as much as possible to reduce fasting periods. However, this solution is complicated for horse owners to implement. You can also wet the hay, which forces the horse to sort more and slightly slows down intake.

However, the most effective solution is to mechanically influence the horse’s ability to grab its hay. This is the entire principle of “slow feeding” (or slow eating), to force the horse to take smaller mouthfuls at a time and thus eat more slowly, mimicking the horse’s natural behavior.

The Hay Net: The Best Slow Feeding Tool

The hay net stands out as the simplest, most economical, and most effective solution to combat the bulimic effect in horses. Specifically, a hay net that radically extends the hay ingestion time. The horse can no longer “grab” large tufts of forage; it must grasp the hay strand by strand. A meal that was previously devoured in 45 minutes can now be spread out over 3 or 4 hours. The benefits are twofold: not only is the ingestion time respected, but chewing is also increased. The horse therefore produces more saliva, protecting its stomach. Furthermore, this activity occupies its mind, combats boredom, and significantly reduces stress related to waiting for the meal.

Our tips for choosing the mesh size here https://filetafoin.com/ in the article “how to choose your mesh size”

Conclusion: Reconciling Digestive Health and Mental Well-being

In conclusion, a greedy horse is often just a horse whose lifestyle does not respect its fundamental physiology. Slowing down its ingestion speed is a true return to calm and digestive serenity. By using a suitable tool like the hay net, you are not just correcting a behavioral “flaw”; you are addressing a vital need. You offer your companion better digestive health, actively prevent the onset of serious pathologies like ulcers and colic, and improve its daily mental well-being.

Polypropylene (PP): Lightweight, but with Limitations

Widely used, polypropylene has the advantage of being a very affordable and lightweight material. It’s the material most commonly found on the hay net market. However, its weaknesses are significant:

Polypropylene is sensitive to UV rays, which makes it fragile. Over time, and especially if exposed outdoors, it becomes brittle and rough. This degradation can lead to the formation of small, rigid, and sharp fibers, which can irritate your horse’s mouth and lips. This is not ideal for daily use. Anti-UV additives delay degradation, but do not completely prevent it. Over time and with prolonged exposure, the material can still become rough and lose its strength.

Polyester: The Choice for Durability and Comfort

Polyester, the material used for Feelnets hay nets, stands out for its strength, lightness, and softness. More resistant than polypropylene (PP), it can withstand a much higher tensile load. It’s the material used in the marine industry for its qualities. Much greater longevity for your net, even with intensive use. There is no risk of degradation in the sun, and it remains flexible and non-irritating for gums, teeth, and whiskers, even after years of use.

Polyester also has other advantages. It is non-absorbent, so it does not retain water and does not mold. This keeps the hay healthy. Furthermore, it is much softer to the touch and is unlikely to irritate your horse’s skin or mouth, even when it chews.

Polyester has superior UV resistance in its natural state, without needing as many additives as PP. This is a property inherent to its composition. That’s why it’s the material of choice for boat sails or high-end ropes, where reliability and longevity in extreme conditions are paramount.

Verdict: Polyester Wins Hands Down

For your horse’s comfort and your peace of mind, the choice is clear. Polypropylene may seem economical to purchase, but its limited lifespan and the risks of degradation make it a poor long-term investment. Opting for a Feelnets polyester hay net means choosing a product that will last for years, while ensuring your horse’s well-being.

Find our range of polyester nets here

Here are some precautions when turning your horse out to pasture:

• Give hay before pasturing, no concentrated feeds.
• Slowly increase the grazing duration and gradually extend it.
• If the horse suffers from diarrhea, do not further extend the grazing duration, but increase the amount of hay until the intestinal flora has normalized.
• Reduce the amount of concentrated feeds during the pasturing period.
• Ensure your horse gets enough exercise. The extra calories from the grass must be burned through exercise, and digestion must remain active.
• Try not to further overload the horse’s metabolism. If possible, avoid medicinal treatments and dewormers during this period.

Why should precautions be taken during spring pasturing?

In spring, the sun may already be shining, but the nights are cool, and the soil temperature is therefore also below 8°. Solar radiation certainly triggers photosynthesis, but the cold does not allow energy to be converted into growth. The fructan content is therefore very high. Fructans can cause a great deal of suffering for horses that are sugar-sensitive.

For healthy horses, a normal amount of fructan is not a problem. But for horses that are prone to intestinal or metabolic problems, an excessive amount can be dangerous. Fructan is not digested in the small intestine; it therefore flows into the large intestine where it is fermented by bacteria. This disrupts the microbial flora and leads to a reduction in the production of healthy nutrients such as volatile fatty acids, an increase in the release of harmful substances, and increased permeability of the intestinal wall. This allows toxins to enter the body, leading to acute immune reactions and metabolic problems. The clinical consequences of excess fructan are often colic, diarrhea, and laminitis.

The benefit of continuing to feed hay in spring:

Hay helps balance and reduce fructan absorption. The hay drying process reduces fructan content compared to fresh grass. Thus, by consuming hay, horses ingest food less rich in fructan. By adding hay to the diet, the proportion between fresh grass and a more neutral feed is balanced. The total amount of fructan absorbed is thus considerably reduced. Furthermore, hay is rich in fiber, which helps slow down digestion. This also helps limit sudden spikes in sugar assimilation, including fructans, and thus protects against problems related to potential overconsumption.

If you have specific cases or doubts, consulting a veterinarian or an equine nutritionist is always a good idea! 😊

Read our article on this topic here

Why do equids need hay?

Equids need hay for several reasons. First, it provides a source of dietary fiber that is essential for healthy digestion. Fiber helps prevent digestive problems such as colic and contributes to the proper functioning of the digestive system. Additionally, hay can also help maintain an adequate body weight in horses and donkeys that tend to gain weight easily.

What type of hay is best for equids?

The type of hay recommended for equids depends on their individual needs. In general, good quality hay should be clean, free from excessive dust, and mold-free. It is best to choose hay that contains a good proportion of grasses and legumes to ensure a balanced nutrient intake.

How to feed hay to equids?

Hay can be fed to equids in various ways. It can be offered loose in an appropriate feeder that allows horses to pull out the strands of hay and eat them at will. It can also be offered in the form of hay nets, which helps ration hay consumption and prevent gluttony, waste, and dust inhalation.

View our range and prices here

Advantages of hay compared to grass:

– Storage: Hay can be stored for long periods without deteriorating, making it a reliable forage source throughout the year.
– Nutritional Value: Hay generally contains a higher fiber content than fresh grass, which can be beneficial for animals’ digestive systems. It can also provide a constant supply of essential nutrients throughout the year.

Disadvantages of hay compared to grass:

– Lower energy and protein values: Fresh grass generally has a higher energy and protein value than hay.
– Variable nutritional quality: The nutritional quality of hay can vary depending on various factors, such as harvest time, climatic conditions, etc. Therefore, it is important to ensure that the chosen hay has adequate nutritional value for the animals. In comparison, fresh grass generally available in nature is more consistent in terms of nutritional value.
– unlike grass, hay is a source of dust. There can be dust in hay for several reasons. First, during hay harvesting and drying, particles of soil, pollen, mold, and other allergens can mix with the hay. Additionally, if hay is stored in humid conditions, there can be an increase in mold and dust. When hay is stirred or handled, these particles are released into the air, which can cause respiratory problems (allergies, emphysema, etc.) in equids. It is therefore important to ensure that horses do not root their noses in the hay. The hay net is a solution that addresses this problem.

Read our article on this topic here

Slower and More Natural Hay Consumption

Hay nets are specifically designed to slow down the rate at which horses ingest their hay. Unlike traditional feeding where hay is simply placed on the ground or in a feeder, hay nets require horses to pull the hay through the small mesh of the net. This process more closely mimics how horses feed in the wild, by grazing for long periods. This slower, more regulated approach helps reduce the risks of overfeeding and rapid fermentation in the stomach, two key factors in the occurrence of colic.

Reducing Risky Behaviors

In addition to slowing down hay intake, hay nets also help reduce certain risky behaviors associated with digestive disorders. For example, when a horse has access to a large quantity of loose hay, it may tend to select the most palatable parts, leaving the less appetizing stalks aside. This selectivity can lead to an unbalanced diet. With a hay net, the horse is compelled to eat more uniformly, ensuring better digestion and more consistent nutrient absorption. Furthermore, by reducing unlimited access to hay, hay nets encourage increased physical activity, as horses spend more time “working” to obtain their food.

An Indispensable Tool for Digestive Health

Hay nets are therefore much more than a simple feed management accessory. They play a crucial role in colic prevention and contribute to better overall digestive health in horses. By combining the use of hay nets with other good feed management practices, such as access to clean, fresh water, quality pastures, and a regular exercise routine, owners can significantly improve the well-being of their horses. Thus, investing in quality hay nets, such as those offered by Feelnets, represents a wise and effective preventive measure for any stable concerned about the health of its equids.

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Waste Reduction

Hay nets are also effective at reducing hay waste. In traditional stables, a significant amount of hay is often wasted as horses trample and scatter it. By using hay nets, the hay remains contained and clean, allowing for better utilization of every strand. Less waste translates to significant savings on hay costs, benefiting breeders and stable managers.

Preventing Feeding Conflicts

In stables where multiple horses are fed together, hay nets can help prevent feeding conflicts. By placing several nets in different locations, each horse has equal access to hay, thereby reducing aggressive or competitive behaviors. This method helps maintain a calmer and more harmonious stable environment, which is essential for the well-being of all horses.

Mental and Physical Stimulation

Hay nets also provide mental and physical stimulation for horses. The process of pulling hay through the mesh engages horses and encourages them to use their cognitive abilities. This stimulation is particularly beneficial for horses that spend long periods in stalls or paddocks, as it offers an enriching activity. Additionally, this activity can help strengthen neck muscles and improve horse posture.

Improved Dental Health

Using hay nets can also contribute to horses’ dental health. By eating more slowly and using their teeth to pull hay through the mesh, horses experience more natural wear on their teeth. This can help prevent common dental problems such as uneven tooth wear, which can lead to chewing complications and require veterinary care. By promoting a more natural feeding process, hay nets play a role in maintaining horses’ oral health.

In conclusion, hay nets are versatile and beneficial tools for stables. From feeding management and waste reduction to preventing feeding conflicts and providing mental and physical stimulation for horses, their uses are varied and valuable. Adopting hay nets in your stable can significantly improve your horses’ well-being and the efficiency of your management.

another article here

• How to choose the mesh size?

It is important to choose an appropriate mesh size based on how you intend to use your net. You need to consider the size of the hay strands and your horse’s eating habits. Smaller mesh sizes (approximately 3 to 50 cm) slow down hay consumption, promoting slower and more consistent feeding, which is beneficial for digestion. Larger mesh sizes (over 6 cm) are suitable for horses that do not have issues with gorging and require a higher hay flow. You can find more information here.

• How to introduce a horse to a hay net?

Some horses may be reluctant to use a hay net for the first time. It is helpful to accustom them by pulling hay through the net’s mesh so that the hay protrudes and is easy to grasp.

• How to wash my net?

Regular cleaning is essential to prevent the accumulation of dust and debris. Use a soft brush and rinse with clear water.

• How to repair a hole in your hay net?

You can repair your net yourself using a cord. We also offer a repair service; to request a quote, send the dimensions of the hole, ideally a photo, to commercial@feelnets.com

• How to order a custom hay net?

If you have specific dimensions, it is possible to order a custom net to perfectly suit your needs. We do not have an e-commerce site; you can send your order here.

• What are the benefits of hay nets?

Hay nets help reduce dust, encourage slower and more natural feeding, and can improve horses’ oral health.

• What is the lifespan of a hay net?

With proper maintenance, a polyester hay net can last several years. Outdoors, polyester has a lifespan of 18 years.

• Are hay nets suitable for all types of hay?

Yes, but it is important to choose a net with an appropriate mesh size. Feel free to ask us for advice.

Prevention of Emphysema

Emphysema, also known as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in horses, is characterized by inflammation of the small airways and alveoli, leading to severe breathing difficulties. It is the equivalent of asthma in humans. This disease is often caused by repeated inhalation of dust, mold spores, and other irritants present in hay. Hay nets play an essential role in reducing these risks by keeping hay compacted and thus limiting the amount of dust released when horses feed. By eating at a slower pace, horses inhale fewer harmful particles, which reduces respiratory tract irritation and lowers the likelihood of developing chronic lung conditions.

Natural Grazing Posture

In addition to limiting dust inhalation, hay nets encourage a more natural and healthier grazing posture for horses. When hay is distributed on the ground, horses tend to eat quickly, which can exacerbate respiratory and digestive problems. Hay nets, on the other hand, allow horses to eat in a manner closer to their natural grazing behavior, with their heads down, which is beneficial for the drainage of the upper respiratory tract and for the prevention of respiratory diseases. This more ergonomic feeding method also helps reduce stress and improve the overall well-being of horses, as they spend more time feeding and satisfying their need to chew.

Improvement of the Feeding Environment

Finally, hay nets are also beneficial for the overall feeding environment of horses. By reducing the amount of hay scattered and airborne, they keep feeding areas cleaner and less dusty. Less dust in the immediate environment means better air quality for all horses present, which is particularly important in enclosed stables where ventilation may be limited. By investing in quality hay nets, stable owners and managers can contribute to a healthier and safer environment for their horses, thereby reducing the incidence of respiratory diseases and improving the overall health and well-being of their animals.

In summary, hay nets offer an effective and practical solution for preventing respiratory diseases, including emphysema, in horses. By slowing down hay consumption, reducing dust inhalation, encouraging natural grazing postures, and improving air quality in stables, these nets significantly contribute to the respiratory health of horses. For any horse owner concerned about their animal’s well-being, the use of hay nets represents a wise and long-term beneficial investment.