Do you have enough hay for your horses this winter?

Whether you own one horse or 11, keeping tabs on your hay supply should be a priority on your acreage.

Now is a good time to assess your grass hay needs to avoid a shortage in the coming winter.

Horses need roughage year round. A horse's diet should consist of 50% to 100% grass hay of some sort. Lower amounts of forages in the diet can lead to an increased risk for ulcers and colic.

According to the University of Minnesota Extension, you should first determine how much hay you will need.

Horses eat roughly 2% to 3% of their body weight a day!

For example, an average 1,000-pound horse eats about 20 pounds of feed daily, plus water.

Calculate your hay needs, adding 20% for wasted hay. There is less waste when using feeders or small square bales. Ask your hay supplier how much the bales weigh and calculate your hay needs before ordering.

Larger hay orders often qualify for discounted (or free) delivery too.

Keep your horses happy, comfortable & healthy this winter by thinking ahead to insure their needs are met.

May all your acres be green ones!