Last year’s challenging growing conditions had a significant impact on forage production, with many areas experiencing reduced yields and poorer quality crops. As a result, yards across the country are now facing tighter supplies, increased demand and rising costs. With many horse owners looking for practical ways to manage forage stocks without compromising their horses’ wellbeing, making every bale count has never been more important.
One simple and effective solution is to consider mixing straw with your existing forage. EH Straw can be an excellent option for horses that require their calorie intake to be managed while still meeting their natural need to chew.
Low in calories, protein and sugar, EH Straw helps to dilute richer forage without removing valuable fibre from the diet. Its high fibre content supports healthy digestion, promotes gut function and encourages longer chewing times, helping to satisfy horses’ natural foraging instincts. This can be particularly beneficial for good doers, native breeds and horses prone to weight gain.
Introducing straw into the ration can also help extend forage supplies, reducing the amount of hay or haylage used each day. As with any dietary change, it should be introduced gradually over a period of seven to ten days, ensuring horses adapt comfortably to the new feeding regime.
Another simple way to maximise every net is to switch to slow-feed hay nets. Designed with smaller holes, these nets encourage horses to eat more slowly, extending feeding time and mimicking more natural grazing patterns. Research suggests that slow feeders can also reduce forage waste by up to 60%, helping valuable supplies last longer while keeping horses occupied for extended periods.
Reducing waste around the stable and field can make a noticeable difference too. Feeding forage from racks, mats or suitable feeders rather than directly onto muddy ground can prevent large amounts from being trampled underfoot or spoiled. Storing forage correctly in a dry, well-ventilated area also helps preserve its quality and minimise losses.
Regularly assessing each horse’s body condition score is another useful management tool. Not every horse requires the same amount of forage, and tailoring rations to the individual’s workload, age and condition can help prevent unnecessary overfeeding while ensuring nutritional needs continue to be met.
With careful planning and a few practical changes, it is possible to stretch forage supplies further without compromising horse health or welfare. After all, making your forage go further isn’t simply about saving money – it’s about feeding smarter and supporting the health and happiness of your horses throughout the season.
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