HANDLING HAY LEFTOVERS

When your horse leaves uneaten hay in his stall, your first instinct may be to gather it as you muck and feed it for another meal. That’s not a good idea, though, and here’s why: Most horses are eager to consume just about all the hay they are given. If a horse leaves behind a large amount of hay there’s likely something wrong with it or with him, and it’s time to investigate.

• #HEcK tHE QUaLitY oF tHE HaY Is it moldy or dusty? Is it coarse and stemmy or full of weeds? Poor-quality hay may cost less, but if a horse won’t eat it, it’s no bargain. Dispose of inferior hay and replace it with something better. If it’s too late in the season to find good hay, investigate the possibility of a hay replacement, such as cubes, chopped forage or even a complete feed.

• (aVE YoUR HoRsE s tEEtH EXaM inED A horse who can’t properly chew hay will have to leave it uneaten. Older horses are particularly prone to this problem as their teeth wear smooth. Your veterinarian can examine your horse’s teeth and recommend any dental work that might help or suggest switching to a forage product that can accommodate your horse’s needs.

Some horses are naturally messy eaters. Even with good teeth and highquality hay, they will still manage to