Hay Nets & Hay Racks – Slow Feeding for Your Horse
Do you want your horse to eat for longer, gulp less, and be more relaxed in the stable? Then a good hay netor a well-designed hay rack is exactly what you need. Whether for the stall, open stable, pasture, or trailer – you’ll find slow feeding systems in various sizes and mesh widths to suit your horse and your daily routine.
Why a Hay Net or Hay Rack Makes So Much Sense
Horses are continuous eaters. In the wild, they graze 16 to 18 hours a day. In the stable, it usually looks different – and that's where hay nets and hay racks come in. They extend feeding time, keep your horse occupied, and ensure less hay ends up on the ground. This not only saves you money but also protects your horse's stomach.
Especially for easily-fed horses, ponies prone to laminitis, or horses with stomach problems, fine-mesh hay nets are a real game-changer. The small mesh size forces your horse to eat more slowly – and this directly impacts well-being, metabolism, and digestion.
Which Hay Net Suits You and Your Horse?
The selection is vast, and that's a good thing. Because every horse, every stable, and every situation is different. Here's a brief overview:
- Hay net with large mesh size– ideal for normal-eating horses and quick feeding on the go
- Fine-mesh hay net (Slow Feeder)– perfect for easily-fed horses, ponies, or horses with stomach problems
- Hay net for the trailer– compact, robust, and safe for traveling to competitions or trail rides
- Hay rack– the stable solution for the stall, open stable, or paddock, often with a roof for rain protection
- Hay nets for round bales– for group housing in the pasture or open stable
In our assortment, you'll find hay nets and hay racks from Kentucky Horsewear, Waldhausen, KERBL, and other manufacturers. This ensures you get quality that truly lasts in daily stable life.
Safety First – What to Consider with a Hay Net
A hay net is only a good hay net if your horse cannot get tangled in it. Hang the net high enough so your horse cannot get a hoof in it – but not so high that it constantly has to stretch its neck back. A height at your horse's chest is usually a good compromise. For shod horses, there are also hay nets with a particularly fine knotted mesh that practically prevent snagging.
If you also want to slow down your horse's grazing, it's worth taking a look at grazing muzzles and feed bags– especially in spring and summer.
Frequently Asked Questions about Hay Nets and Hay Racks
Which mesh size for a hay net for horses?
For normal-eating horses, 4.5 to 6 cm is common. For easily-fed horses or slow feeding, 3 to 4.5 cm is advisable. Make sure your horse doesn't get frustrated – very fine mesh is not suitable for every horse.
Hay net or hay rack – which is better?
That depends on your housing situation. In the stall, the hay net scores points because it's flexible. In an open stable or paddock, a stable hay rack is often the better choice, especially with a roof for rain protection.
Which hay net for the horse trailer?
For the trailer, small, robust hay nets with sturdy suspensions are suitable. This gives your horse something to do during the ride and arrives at its destination more relaxed.
How high should a hay net hang?
Approximately at your horse's chest height. This maintains a natural feeding posture, and the risk of a hoof getting caught is significantly lower.
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Looking for the right hay net for your horse? Browse our selection – and if you have any questions, just get in touch. We'll be happy to help you find the right model.
