How much hay does a horse need per day in the winter?
The average horse requires approximately 20 lbs. of forage per day and winter weather can increase the amount of hay needed by 30 to 50%. For each decrease in coldness of one degree F below the critical temperature there is an increase in digestible energy requirements of one percent for body temperature maintenance.
How much hay should I feed my horse in winter?
A horse, in general, at maintenance level in “mild months” should consume between 1.5-2.5% of their body weight in hay each day. It’s recommended that you add *an additional* 2 pounds of hay for every 10 degrees F drop in temperature below 32 degrees.
How many square bales of hay does a horse eat a year?
An average sized hay bale (95 pounds) makes for an average of about 21 bales to a ton of hay. So, doing some quick math, that means that the average horse would eat 75 bales of hay a year.
Is it OK to use old hay for mulch?
But using hay as mulch has some surprising benefits. It does indeed break down, but unless you have a very wet environment it shouldn’t get moldy. Instead, it will start to compost, creating a rich layer of nutrients for your plants. This is especially good for seeds and starter plants.
Can I use old hay for bedding?
If your normal bedding material is not available or you just mess up and forget to keep enough of the normal stuff on hand, old hay can substitute.
How long do hay bales last?
You can store hay indefinitely if the stack is managed correctly; although, in humid climates, using hay within three years of harvest is ideal. Hay growers need to bale it at correct moisture levels because if it’s baled too damp the hay will generate heat, which leads to molding.
How do you know when hay is bad?
Smells Like Mold or Mildew Unlike the sweet smell of fresh, high-quality hay, hay that is going bad may smell like mold or mildew. Even if there is no visible mold, steer clear of any hay that hints of mold! Additionally, if the hay lacks smell or smells stale, it is likely not as fresh as you may have been told.
How do you know if hay is good quality?
Good quality hay should be bright green in color with little fading. A bleached, yellow, brown or black color may indicate aged hay, mold or poor storage conditions. Storage condition and age have a significant effect on vitamin content of hays.