Guide to Grass Hay Cubes for Horses

When it comes to equine nutrition, providing high-quality forage is one of the most important components of maintaining a healthy, happy horse. While traditional long-stem hay is a staple for most horses, there are times when alternative forage sources become essential. One of the most versatile and convenient options on the market today is grass hay cubes for horses.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore what grass hay cubes are, why they’re beneficial, how to feed them safely, and whether they’re right for your horse.

What Are Grass Hay Cubes?

Grass hay cubes are compressed blocks of dried grass hay, typically made from forage varieties such as timothy, orchardgrass, Bermuda, or mixed grass blends. Unlike alfalfa cubes, which are high in protein and calcium, grass hay cubes for horses offer a lower-calorie and lower-protein forage alternative, making them ideal for easy keepers and horses with specific dietary needs.

Each cube is typically around 1 to 2 inches in size and is formed by chopping, drying, and compressing the hay under high pressure. No binders or artificial additives are used—just pure forage.

Benefits of Grass Hay Cubes for Horses

Switching from traditional baled hay to hay cubes might seem like a big change, but the benefits can be significant for both horse and owner.

1. Consistent Quality and Nutrition

Hay cubes are manufactured under controlled conditions, meaning they often have more consistent nutritional values than baled hay. This consistency helps horse owners better manage their horses’ diets, especially for animals with special health needs such as metabolic syndrome or laminitis.

2. Dust-Free and Cleaner

Because they are tightly compressed and processed with minimal dust, grass hay cubes are an excellent choice for horses with respiratory issues like heaves (recurrent airway obstruction). They’re also less likely to contain mold or other contaminants often found in poorly stored baled hay.

3. Reduced Waste

Loose hay often results in a significant amount of waste due to trampling, scattering, and soiling. With hay cubes, you can feed a specific portion that is easier to consume and leaves behind minimal waste.

4. Space-Saving and Convenient

For horse owners with limited storage space, grass hay cubes for horses are a space-efficient solution. They can be stacked and stored cleanly in bins or bags, making them ideal for boarding stables or traveling.

Nutritional Profile of Grass Hay Cubes

While exact values can vary based on the type of grass used, most grass hay cubes contain the following nutrients per pound (dry matter basis):

· Crude Protein: 7–10%

· Crude Fiber: 30–35%

· Calcium: 0.4–0.6%

· Phosphorus: 0.2–0.3%

· Digestible Energy: 0.9–1.0 Mcal/lb

These values make grass hay cubes suitable for adult horses, senior horses, and those that are overweight or require a low-starch diet.

When to Feed Grass Hay Cubes

Depending on the circumstances, grass hay cubes can be fed as a supplement, partial replacement, or full replacement for long-stem hay.

Suitable Scenarios:

· Poor hay availability: If your local hay supply is inconsistent or of poor quality.

· Horses with dental issues: Older horses with worn teeth or dental problems often struggle to chew long-stem hay.

· Allergy-prone horses: Those suffering from dust or mold sensitivities may benefit from cleaner forage cubes.

· Travel or competitions: Lightweight and easy to transport, hay cubes are ideal for on-the-go nutrition.

Not Ideal For:

· Horses that bolt their feed or don’t chew properly (unless soaked).

· Horses who rely on the natural chewing motion of long-stem hay for digestive health and boredom relief.

Feeding Guidelines

Feeding grass hay cubes for horses successfully requires understanding how much to offer and how to prepare them safely.

1. How Much to Feed

A general rule is that horses should consume 1.5% to 2.5% of their body weight in forage per day. For a 1,000-pound horse, this equates to:

· 15–25 pounds of forage daily

· If using grass hay cubes exclusively, weigh them dry to match the appropriate amount.

2. Dry vs. Soaked Cubes

Hay cubes can be fed dry or soaked in water, depending on the individual horse.

· Dry Feeding: Suitable for horses that chew thoroughly and eat slowly.

· Soaked Feeding: Recommended for senior horses, those prone to choke, or if the cubes are particularly hard or large. Soaking also helps increase water intake.

To soak cubes:

· Use 1-part cubes to 2–3 parts warm water.

· Allow 15–30 minutes for full absorption.

· Stir well before feeding.

Transitioning from Hay to Hay Cubes

If you're planning to switch your horse from traditional hay to grass hay cubes, do so gradually over 7–10 days. Sudden dietary changes can upset the digestive system and increase the risk of colic.

· Start by substituting 25% of the hay with cubes.

· Gradually increase the ratio every two days.

· Monitor manure consistency and the horse’s appetite.

Common Concerns and Myths

Myth 1: “Hay cubes cause choke.”

Choke can happen with any type of feed if the horse eats too quickly or doesn’t chew properly. While hay cubes are denser, soaking them significantly reduces this risk.

Myth 2: “Horses don’t get enough fiber from cubes.”

Grass hay cubes provide ample fiber and can be a complete source of roughage when long-stem hay isn’t available.

Myth 3: “Hay cubes are more expensive.”

While the upfront cost may seem higher, the reduced waste, storage convenience, and consistent quality often make hay cubes cost-effective in the long run.

Selecting High-Quality Grass Hay Cubes

When purchasing grass hay cubes for horses, consider the following:

· Type of grass: Choose timothy or orchardgrass cubes for easy keepers; avoid alfalfa unless higher protein is required.

· Manufacturer reputation: Buy from trusted suppliers with stringent quality controls.

· Packaging: Look for clean, sealed bags without signs of moisture or mold.

· Storage: Store in a dry, cool area in airtight containers or bins.

Final Thoughts

Grass hay cubes for horses are a practical and nutritionally balanced forage option, offering numerous benefits for horses and their caretakers alike. From improved digestion and cleaner feeding to ease of storage and consistent quality, hay cubes are becoming a staple in modern horse nutrition.

While they’re not a one-size-fits-all solution, they offer a valuable alternative when traditional hay isn’t ideal or available. Always consult with your equine veterinarian or nutritionist before making major changes to your horse’s diet to ensure all nutritional needs are met.

By understanding how to choose, feed, and transition to grass hay cubes properly, you can provide your horse with a reliable and health-supportive source of forage, wherever life takes you.