Wadswick Small Bale Top Quality Hay

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Wadswick Small Bale Horse Hay, cut and baled on Wadswick land.

Dry matter This measure represents everything in the forage sample other than water including protein, fibre, fat, minerals, etc. Horses consume the forage they are eating to meet their DM needs, because it is the dry matter that contains all of the nutrients. Wetter forages (such as haylage) need to be provided in higher quantities to ensure that enough fibre is being provided. Hay can vary from 85% to higher than 90%. It is recommended that no less than 1.5% of the horse’s bodyweight is fed in forage on a dry matter basis.

For example, this particular forage would be providing 91.7% fibre, and 8.3% water. A 500kg horse would require a minimum of 7.5kg of forage on a dry matter basis. If feeding the forage in this example, a 500kg horse would then need to be provided with a minimum of 8.17kg, in order to take into account the moisture content.

Protein of forage is naturally variable and influenced by species of grass. Forage protein should always be considered as part of the daily protein intake inclusive of contribution from feeds. Protein is required for muscle health and renewal of tissue, and so ensuring adequate protein is being provided is essential to support optimum recovery rates post exercise. The protein content of this forage would be considered to be within normal ranges.

Ash reflects total mineral content of the forage. This is the internal micronutrient content and

is usually between 5-10% (50-100g/kg). The ash content in this forage is slightly outside of normal forage values, and a further mineral analysis might therefore be recommended.

ADF and NDF are measures of the fibrous components of forage and used as indicators of forage quality.

• NDF represents the total fibre content of the plant. Forages with an NDF of greater than 65% are likely to have a poor intake and are not considered suitable for horses.

• ADF is an indicator of digestibility. Forages with a lower ADF value are easier to digest. Forages with an ADF value of less than 40% are suitable for horses.

The NDF and ADF of this hay would be considered good.

Sugar reflects total natural sugars found in the forage. The sugar content of this forage would be considered to be within typical ranges.

DE (Digestible Energy) is the unit of measure for the energy or calorific value the forage contains. Energy requirements are expressed as megajoules (MJ/kg). This allows provision of suitable fibre levels to maintain hindgut health and maintain correct weight and condition. The energy content of this hay would be considered to be within normal ranges.