Forage is the main component of a healthy equine diet. Here are hay accessories for horses to make feeding it a little easier.
Tarter Round Bale Feeder
Haygain HG600
Haygain steamers are designed to kill mold, fungal spores, yeast, and bacteria often found in hay, creating a palatable meal that enhances digestibility and nutrition. The Haygain HG600 steamer also triples the water content of the hay for added hydration. Steaming reduces airborne dust by nearly 98%, reducing a horse’s susceptibility to inflammatory airway disease by 65%. $1,749.00; www.haygain.us
Rolling Bale Bag
This nylon rolling bale bag will allow you to easily transport and store your hay, protecting it from debris like dust and dirt. This bag is water-resistant and provides ventilation and breathability for your hay. Four wheels and sturdy handles make moving even large bales easy. Monogramming available. $69.95 (monogram $8.95 extra); www.doversaddlery.com
Kensington Slow-Feed Hay Bag
Made exclusively for SmartPak, this hay bag features 1.5-inch netting to slow consumption and is padded by Textilene on the sides and bottom to prevent unnecessary hay waste. Has adjustable/detachable straps and closeable lid. $69.99-$79.99 depending on size; www.smartpakequine.com
Nylon Hay and Grain Portable Feeder
This on-the-road portable feeder is made of 600-denier nylon, adjustable closer straps, and large lid opening for easy-to-manage filling. Even if you choose not to use a bottom tray for grain, this bag is effective in preventing your horse’s hay from being trampled on the ground. $28.49; www.statelinetack.com
Corner Feeder
This three-in-one stall corner feeder offers three sections: one large center cavity for hay, and two smaller side cavities for salt and grain. This feeder is designed to reside on the ground so that your horse can eat naturally with his head down in a comfortable grazing position. $575.95-$1,159.95 depending on size; www.smartpakequine.com
Smart Cart
Designed to stand up to heavy use in a barn or boarding facility, the polyethylene pan, powder-coated metals, and aluminum alloy frame fight barn acids in harsh environments. This Smart Cart is easy to maneuver, with a well-balanced design and wheels. $439.95-$539.95 depending on size; www.smartpakequine.com
This article about hay accessories for horses appeared in the July 2020 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!
