25/07/2024
A flake of hay is not equal to all flakes of hay.
Flakes of hay can vary in weight.
One flake of grass hay can weigh as little as 3lbs, and upwards of 5lbs, so occasionally weighing your hay may help with weight issues in some horses.
Here are a few examples of a grass hay testing at 800 calories per pound. (Per day)
4 flakes at 3lbs per flake = 12lbs and 9600 kcal.
4 flakes at 5lbs each = 20lbs and 16,000 kcals.
6 flakes at 5lbs each = 30lbs and 24,000 kcals.
Weighing hay can be key in managing both over and underweight horses who are “meal-fed” as they may be getting much more or much less than expected. Using a hay net or basket and fish scale is an easy way to get an idea of how much is being fed and should be done on a regular basis (at least with each new load).
(Borrowed this great photo from- Merriewold Morgan’s)
