Round Bales for Horses: Maximising Benefits and Minimising Risks

Round Bales for Horses: Maximising Benefits and Minimising Risks

Feeding horses can be a time-consuming and labour-intensive task, especially for those managing multiple horses or large equine operations. Round bales have become an increasingly popular option for horse owners looking to streamline their feeding routine while providing ample forage for their equine companions. However, like any feeding method, using round bales comes with both advantages and challenges. In this blog post, we'll explore the proper use of round bales for horses, discussing their benefits, potential drawbacks, and strategies to make the most of this feeding option.

Why Round Bales are Good for Horses

Round bales have many advantages when compared to traditional square bales, such as:

1. Natural Grazing Behavior: Round bales allow horses to engage in more natural grazing behavior, as they can eat small amounts frequently throughout the day. This mimics their natural feeding patterns in the wild, which can contribute to better digestive health and reduced boredom.

2. Convenience: For horse owners, round bales can significantly reduce the time and labor involved in daily feeding. Once a round bale is placed in the pasture or feeding area, it can last for days or even weeks, depending on the number of horses and their consumption rate.

3. Cost-Effective: Round bales are often more economical than square bales, especially when feeding multiple horses. The cost per kilo of hay is typically lower for round bales, which can lead to substantial savings over time.

4. Reduced Waste: When properly managed, round bales can result in less waste compared to daily hay feeding. Horses are less likely to trample or soil large portions of the bale, as they might with loose hay spread on the ground. This is especially true when a hay net is used in conjunction with a round bale.

5. Constant Access to Forage: Round bales provide horses with continuous access to forage, which is crucial for maintaining gut health and preventing issues like gastric ulcers.

When to Use Round Bales for Horses

Round bales are particularly well-suited for certain situations:

1. Pasture-Based Systems: For horses kept primarily on pasture, round bales can supplement grazing, especially during summer months or in areas with limited grass growth.

2. Large Herds: Facilities with multiple horses can benefit from the efficiency of round bales, reducing the need for frequent hay distribution.

3. Time Constraints: Horse owners with busy schedules may find round bales an excellent solution for ensuring their horses have constant access to forage without daily feeding.

4. Winter Feeding: In the colder months, round bales can provide additional forage to maintain body condition and warmth.

5. Drought Conditions: During periods of drought when pasture quality is poor, round bales can serve as a primary forage source.

Potential Downfalls of Round Bales

While round bales offer many benefits, they also come with potential risks that horse owners should be aware of:

1. Mould Growth: One of the most significant concerns with round bales is the potential for mould growth, especially in humid climates or if the bales are exposed to moisture. Mould can cause respiratory issues in horses and may lead to more severe health problems if ingested.

2. Loss of Nutrients: Over time, exposure to sunlight and weather can cause a degradation of nutrients in the outer layers of the bale. This can result in a less nutritious feed, particularly if the bale is left out for extended periods.

3. Wastage: Without proper management, horses can waste significant amounts of hay from round bales. They may pull out more than they eat, trample hay underfoot, or use it as bedding rather than feed.

4. Overfeeding: Some horses, particularly easy keepers, may overeat when given free access to round bales, leading to weight gain and associated health issues.

5. Parasite Exposure: Horses feeding from the same area repeatedly can increase their exposure to internal parasites through manure contamination.

6. Botulism Risk: In rare cases, improperly baled or stored round bales can harbor the bacteria that cause botulism, a potentially fatal condition in horses.

Strategies to Combat Round Bale Downfalls

To maximize the benefits of round bales while minimizing risks, consider implementing these strategies:

1. Use a Hay Feeder: Investing in a good-quality round bale feeder can significantly reduce waste and prevent horses from standing on the hay. Look for feeders designed specifically for horses, with openings that allow easy access but prevent horses from pulling out excessive amounts. At Oakford Stockfeeds we stock a variety of hay feeders that can be ordered for our customers.

2. Proper Storage: Store unused round bales in a dry, covered area to prevent moisture accumulation and mould growth. If storing outdoors is necessary, use tarps or hay caps to protect the bales from rain.

3. Regular Inspection: Check round bales frequently for signs of mould, especially after rain or in humid conditions. Remove any mouldy sections before offering the bale to horses.

4. Rotate Bale Locations: Move round bales to different areas of the pasture to prevent overgrazing and reduce parasite exposure in feeding areas.

5. Limit Access: For horses prone to obesity, consider using slow-feed nets over the round bale or limiting access to certain times of the day to prevent overfeeding.

6. Choose Quality Hay: Select round bales made from high-quality, horse-suitable hay. Avoid bales with visible mould, excessive dust, or those that feel damp.

7. Use Quickly: Try to use round bales within a reasonable timeframe to minimize nutrient loss. In warmer months, aim to use a bale within 5-7 days if possible.

8. Supplement Wisely: Monitor your horses' body condition and supplement with concentrated feeds or vitamins/minerals as needed, especially if using round bales as the primary forage source.

9. Consider Smaller Bales: If managing waste and quality is challenging with large round bales, consider using smaller round bales that can be consumed more quickly.

10. Implement a Parasite Control Program: Work with your veterinarian to develop an effective deworming strategy, as round bale feeding can increase parasite exposure.

11. Test Hay Quality: Periodically have your round bales tested for nutritional content to ensure they're meeting your horses' dietary needs, especially if using them as a primary feed source.

Round bales can be an excellent feeding option for many horse owners, offering convenience, cost-effectiveness, and the ability to mimic natural grazing behaviors. However, their use requires careful management to avoid potential health risks and minimise waste. By implementing proper storage techniques, using appropriate feeders, and regularly monitoring both the hay quality and your horses' health, you can successfully incorporate round bales into your equine feeding program.

Remember that every horse and every situation is unique. What works well for one group of horses may not be ideal for another. Always consult with your veterinarian or an equine nutritionist when making significant changes to your horses' feeding regimen. With thoughtful management, round bales can be a valuable tool in providing your horses with the forage they need to thrive.

At Oakford Stockfeeds, we stock a variety of products to keep your horse happy and healthy. From hay feeders to hay nets to HAY, we have you covered!