Here at Capalaba Produce we often get asked for advice on all sorts of questions regarding pets, produce, and the backyard. Today we’re going to be discussing a question that we get asked almost every day regarding horses. What hay should I feed my horse?

Let’s start off by answering the simplest question. What is Hay? Unlike straw, a biproduct of another crop, hay is specifically grown and nutrient-rich for livestock like horses. No matter if it comes in a round bale or a square bale, there are two types of hay which is available, lucerne hay and grass hay.

Lucerne Hay is high in protein, calcium and digestible energy compared to grass hay. Although it has less fiber but provides more energy to your horses. Because of the high protein lucerne hay is a favourite for foals, mares, and growing horses.

Grass Hay is usually made from several types of grasses. It is lower in protein and calcium compared to lucerne hay but is higher in fibre which helps your hose with digestion and keeps them fuller for longer.

So now explored the two main types of hay we can start to explore the question, what hay should I feed my horse? When deciding what is the best for your horse there’s three main things you need to consider.

Workload – If your horse is only doing light to moderate work grass hay usually supplies enough protein and energy. But if your horse is underweight or doing heavier work lucerne hay can provide the extra nutrients which they need. 

Age – Younger, pregnant, or lactating horses usually benefit from the extra nutrient found in lucerne hay. 

Weight – Horses that are prone to weight gain or have metabolic disorders usually benefit from grass hay as it’s lower in calories and sugars. 

Every horse is as unique as us humans and there are different factors that will influence what they need in their diet. Although grass hay is ideal for most horses, there are times when your horse may need the extra energy and protein which can be found in lucerne.

No matter what your horse needs, at Capalaba Produce we have a wide selection of hay, supplements, and calming products to make sure your horse stays healthy and happy for many years to come.