Can I feed alfalfa cubes instead of hay?

Can I feed alfalfa cubes instead of hay?

Forage cubes can be fed just like hay, at a 1:1 ratio of the like hay type the horse currently consumes. For example, you would replace five pounds of alfalfa hay with five pounds of alfalfa cubes and adjust the amount if needed to maintain the animal's proper weight.

Are alfalfa cubes the same as alfalfa hay?

There is no nutritional difference between alfalfa pellets and cubes, so the choice between the two is based on which type your horses prefer and which you prefer to feed and store. Alfalfa pellets, cubes, and hay provide the same essential nutrients per pound.

Are alfalfa cubes considered forage?

Good quality forage is the basis of feeding programs for all horses. ... However, when mold-free hay is not available, horse owners can consider the use of alfalfa cubes as a viable forage alternative. The difference between alfalfa hay and the alfalfa cube is the size of the package.

How many alfalfa cubes equal a flake of hay?

As per a general assumption, one alfalfa cube is equal to one hay flake(even if it appears huge). The default weight of alfalfa cube and hay flake is around 5lbs but it can be more or less.

Can alfalfa cubes cause colic?

Rich alfalfa hay can also cause colic, so we recommend feeding a grass hay or grass/alfalfa mix. Changes in management or a horse's routine can be stressful and contribute to colic risk as well. ... Intestinal parasites can lead to colic, particularly in the young horse.

How long should you soak alfalfa cubes?

Soaked alfalfa cubes are easier to eat, and they contain more nutrients than grass hay. Before feeding an older horse, soak the cubes for 10 to 30 minutes, or until they're soft and soupy. If necessary, experiment with soaking methods and keep an eye on your horse's feeding habits to find its preferred consistency.

Can Wethers eat alfalfa?

The overall diet, which includes hay, feed, minerals, and snacks, should have twice the calcium of phosphorous. ... The best thing to do is feed your wethers a grassy alfalfa hay (this is a mix or orchard grass and alfalfa), a loose goat mineral (we like Sweetlix Meat Maker) and NO GRAIN.

How many alfalfa cubes do I eat?

Alfalfa cubes are more appropriate either for lactating mares or growing horses and as a partial forage substitute. While up to 15 lbs or more can be fed per day, as little as 2 to 6 lbs of cubes per day can be used as a “hay extender” if only poor quality hay is available in limited quantities.

How long do alfalfa cubes last?

Heat processed feeds typically have a longer storage length (think hay or alfalfa pellets) due to the fact that the heat kills off some bacteria. Generally, experts accept that commercial pellets are viable for about six months. Textured feeds are best used within three months of manufacture date.

Why is alfalfa bad for horses?

Excess protein, like excess energy has been implicated as a cause of developmental orthopedic disease in growing horses. 3. Alfalfa hay contains too much calcium and/or magnesium a. The high calcium level causes a high calcium:phosphorus ratio which may contribute to developmental orthopedic disease b.

How much alfalfa hay do you feed=?

How much alfalfa hay do you feed a 1,200 pound horse and how often? Horses can normally eat 1.5-2% of their body weight in hay, which equates to 18-24 lbs. of hay per day. The quality of the hay will determine how much is needed and if supplemental grain should be added.

How much alfalfa cubes should I feed?

When feeding alfalfa cubes to replace hay, you should feed 1 pound of cubes to replace 1 pound of hay. Alfalfa cubes can be found at most farm stores, though in my experience they might be hard to find in the smaller stores. They are usually sold in 50 pound bags.

How are hay cubes made?

Alfalfa hay cubes are made of chopped alfalfa compressed into cube form. The hay is cut into windrows and allowed to sun cure. After it is perfectly cured, the alfalfa is picked up and chopped by a forage harvester. The chopped alfalfa is then transported to a stationary cuber where it will be compressed into approxamately a 1.25 inch cube.

Why is alfalfa hay bad for horses?

Alfalfa hay can cause diarrhea in a horse that overeats it because the hay is rich and full of nutrients. Overeating alfalfa can also cause a horse to have excess gas, develop laminitis, and founder. Conclusion