Hay Feeders and Happy Horses: Finding the Right Balance

Horses are natural snackers! Unlike us, horses are designed to graze throughout the day, munching on small amounts of forage with no long fasting periods.

But here’s the tricky part—some horses take their buffet privileges a little too far, turning into chunky pasture potatoes when given unlimited access to hay.

That’s where slow hay feeders come in to save the day!

Why Slow Feeders Matter

We all know that keeping a horse at a healthy weight is a delicate balancing act.

Too little hay, and you risk digestive problems, ulcers, and stressed-out horses. Too much hay, and you might end up with an equine marshmallow on your hands. The key is moderation, and slow hay feeders help extend feeding time while reducing overeating.

It is the opinion of many equine experts that hay feeders can help mimic the natural grazing patterns of horses. It increases chewing time and saliva production, which helps prevent gastric ulcers and those annoying stable vices like cribbing and weaving and wind sucking.

And let’s be honest—keeping your horse busy and content is a win-win. A slow feeder combined with some Huds and Toke® Horse Training Treats can turn snack time into an engaging experience that keeps boredom at bay!

Choosing the Best Slow Feeder

So, what’s the best slow feeder for your hay-loving friend?

The market is full of options, from hay nets and hay balls, to feeders with plastic or metal grates. But horses, just like people, have their own preferences (some love puzzles, others prefer a straightforward meal).

The reason there are many different types on the market is that there isn’t one slow feeder that works for every horse, It depends on factors like cost, your horse’s eating habits, stable and/or paddock facilities, as well as your capabilities and time availability.  Some take longer to fill and secure than others.

To find the best fit, consider:

• Hole size – Smaller holes slow down fast eaters, while larger ones work well for horses who need less restriction.
• Safety features – If your horse wears shoes, choose a feeder that keeps hooves clear of entanglement.
• Ease of use – Some slow feeders are easier to fill than others, so find one that fits your routine.
• Feeding Smart and Staying Safe.  Which includes your safety as well as your ponies' safety.

As much as we love making mealtime fun, safety always comes first. If you’re using a hay net, make sure it’s hung at the right height—high enough to avoid hoof entanglement but low enough to encourage natural head positioning for better respiratory health.

Also, consider opting for feeders with breakaway features in case your horse gets caught.

With regards to your safety, make sure it can be secured in a place where you can refill it easily and avoid getting squashed, kicked or stood on among other safety considerations!

Hay Quality Matters Too!

Slow feeders are great, but the type of hay you use makes a big difference.

If you’ve got an easy keeper, opt for lower-calorie hay so you don’t have to cut back too much.

Testing your hay for caloric content, and moisture can help you make smarter feeding choices without compromising your horse’s happiness.

Certain types of hay work differently in hay feeders.  For example, a light, low moisture content pasture hay my pull apart far easier than a dense hay such as Lucerne? 

As such, you may need to have more than one hay feeder to suit not only the pony but also the types of hay you intend to feed.

At the end of the day, it’s all about balance—keeping your horse well-fed, healthy, and entertained.

A good slow feeder, the right hay, and a stash of Huds and Toke® Horse Treats can turn feeding time into a fun, stress-free experience. After all, a happy horse is a happy rider!

All the best from the team here at Huds and Toke ®