What nutrients are lost during hay storage?
As long as the hay doesn’t get wet or moldy, the levels of protein, energy and minerals will remain relatively unchanged.
Overall dry matter decreases about 5% in the first year.
Within the first few weeks of storage, vitamins, particularly E and A, decline dramatically, so supplementation is needed to replace them in the diet.
Hay that is stored properly can last up to 3 years.
Three key elements in proper hay storage:
- Protect bales from the elements (rain, snow, direct sunlight).
- Provide plenty of airflow around the stack; don’t pile bales up against walls.
- Store bales up off the ground on pallets or in a hayloft.
Feeding an all-forage diet? Let Micro-PhaseTM fill in the gaps in your horse’s nutrient requirements.
Article written by KPP staff.
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