It is important to understand the best horse feed for your animal. The right choice of horse feed is crucial, not only for the animal’s nutritional intake, but also for their overall wellbeing. It has always been understood that fibre is what horses need naturally, however the fibre we traditionally feed with hay just isn’t enough to maintain condition while our horses perform their best.

Both hay and haylage are common in equine diets, but understanding their differences can help horse owners make the best choice of horse feed for their animals. This article will explain the unique benefits and differences that hay and haylage can make to a horse’s diet.

What is the difference between hay and haylage?

Hay is grass that has been cut, dried, and stored for use as animal fodder. Typically, it has a moisture content of less than 15%. It is a traditional form of horse feed, providing a good source of fibre which is essential for the digestive health of horses.

Haylage, on the other hand, is a partially-fermented hay with a higher moisture content, usually between 40-60%. It is sealed in airtight conditions without preservatives, allowing natural fermentation to occur. This process results in a feed that is more palatable and digestible, with reduced dust and spores compared to hay, which is beneficial for horses with respiratory issues.
Rich in fibre and rich in microbes, haylage is perfect for a horse’s hindgut. With increased digestibility of up to 90%, the amount of nutrients absorbed increases too.

Nutritional Differences Between Hay & Haylage – The Link To Gut Health

Horses rely on their gut microbiota—particularly in the hindgut—to break down forage. This process produces vital nutrients like short-chain fatty acids (acetate, propionate, and butyrate) that significantly contribute to the horse’s daily energy needs. (1)

The partially fermented nature of haylage supports beneficial gut bacteria, which plays a crucial role in digesting feed and synthesising essential vitamins and minerals. This can lead to improved gut health and nutrient absorption, both of which are key to maintaining horse health.

The process of drying hay often results in a loss of these essential nutrients. Haylage overcomes this issue, because the fermentation process helps preserve vitamins such as Vitamin E and B.

The higher moisture content of haylage also helps maintain a healthier gut environment, reducing the risk of dry gut and impaction colic. This is particularly beneficial for horses that have difficulty managing dry feed due to older age and/or dental issues.

Impact of Haylage on Improved Horse Mood and Behavior

Studies (2) have shown that the gut-brain axis plays a significant role in horse behaviour and wellbeing. For example, dietary changes affecting gut microbiota have been shown to cause stress responses and anxiety-like behaviours in horses.This shows the importance of choosing high-quality forage like haylage, which supports beneficial gut bacteria and contributes to a calm and content demeanour.

A nutritious diet that supports gut health can lead to a more content and calm demeanour in horses. Haylage, with its easier digestibility and higher nutrient content, can contribute to a stable gut microbiome, which is closely tied to the production of serotonin – a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood.

The softer, more palatable nature of haylage can increase feed intake satisfaction and reduce stress in horses, particularly those that are picky eaters or have higher nutritional needs, such as performance horses.

Why Haylage is the best horse feed

While haylage offers several benefits, it is also more perishable once opened and requires careful management to prevent spoilage. Ideally, to prevent any kind of mould or spoilage, you should store haylage in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area. Fortunately, FeedRight is wrapped in plastic so you canOnce opened, store FeedRight haylage in a shed or other covered area to protect it from the elements.

The advantages of our haylage—such as its higher nutrient content, improved palatability, and positive impact on gut health—make it a high performance horse feed, suitable for many owners. In short, choosing haylage can lead to healthier, happier horses with enhanced performance, wellbeing. To enquire about buying FeedRight haylage, contact us today.