How to Use a Hay Net in a Stall

Hay nets are slow feeders. They keep horses from eating all of the hay at once. The hay net in the stall allows him to munch whenever he wants, a natural way for him to graze all day. A slow-feeding net hole is about 1-1/2 inches so the horse has to tug at the hay to get it out. Hay nets keep hay off the stall floor, making them an economical way to feed. The downside is that horses can hurt themselves by getting their feet tangled in loose hanging nets so caution is required.

Things You'll Need

  • Two-inch eyebolt
  • Hammer
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Instructions

    • 1

      Purchase a quality net. Look for one that has a thick nylon weave made to last. This reduces the chance it might tear and drag where the horse can become entangled. Choose a small- or medium-sized net so that it will not take up too much room in the stall.

    • 2

      Install the eyebolt. Place it at a height that will allow the net to hang slightly above the horse's head. Place the eyebolt low enough to prevent hay or dust from falling into the horse's eyes, but high enough that he cannot paw the net and become entangled.

    • 3

      Hoist the net into place. Secure it on a cord tied to the eyebolt. Do not allow the cord to dangle. Pack the hay down so that is goes all the way to the bottom of the net and pull the drawstring tightly. Tie it so that the neither the net nor its drawstring droop down from the fastening to the eyebolt. Keep the net filled with hay at all times.