Alfalfa Products You Didn’t Know Your Horse Could Benefit From

When it comes to equine nutrition, one of the most overlooked yet highly beneficial components is alfalfa. Rich in protein, calcium, and digestible fiber, alfalfa is more than just another animal feed option—it’s a powerhouse forage for horses when chosen and administered correctly. While many horse owners are familiar with the typical uses of alfalfa in hay form, there is a range of alfalfa products that offer unique advantages depending on your horse’s specific needs.

Why Alfalfa?

Alfalfa is often referred to as the “queen of forages” for good reason. It offers:

• High protein content: Essential for muscle development and repair.
• Rich in calcium: Crucial for bone strength and metabolic functions.
• Highly digestible fiber: Supports a healthy digestive system.
• Palatability: Horses typically enjoy the taste, making it ideal for picky eaters.

Because of these attributes, alfalfa is especially valuable in forage form for horses with higher energy requirements, such as growing foals, lactating mares, and competitive performance horses.

Alfalfa Pellets: A Supplemental Powerhouse

Alfalfa pellets are made from ground alfalfa that is compressed into small, easy-to-feed forms. They are an excellent supplemental forage option, not a full replacement for primary forage sources.

Benefits of Alfalfa Pellets:

• Consistent Quality: Bagged pellets offer uniformity, reducing the risk of mold or foreign material found in less-processed forage.
• Convenience: Easier to store, measure, and transport compared to loose forage.
• Digestibility: Fine texture improves digestion, which is especially beneficial for senior horses or those with dental issues.

While they don’t substitute for long-stemmed forage, alfalfa pellets are perfect for adding a nutrient boost on top of your horse’s regular diet. They work particularly well in ration balancers or when mixed with grains.

Feeding Tips:

Although not mandatory, soaking alfalfa pellets for 30 minutes or until softened is recommended, especially for horses prone to choking. Simply add water and allow the pellets to expand into a mash.

Alfalfa Cubes: The Premium Forage Solution

Alfalfa cubes are a premium, high-density forage product made by compressing coarsely chopped alfalfa into cube form. This product is especially suited for high-quality performance horses that demand excellent nutrition.

Why Choose Cubes for High-Performance Horses?

• Maximized Nutrient Density: Ideal for horses in intense training or competition.
• Controlled Feeding: Helps maintain a precise feeding regimen.
• Reduces Dust: Beneficial for horses with respiratory sensitivities.

These cubes are a legitimate forage replacement and can serve as a complete substitute for traditional hay, provided your horse receives adequate fiber in other forms.

Usage and Preparation:

Alfalfa cubes can be fed dry or soaked. Soaking the cubes for 30 minutes or until softened can prevent choking and aid digestion for horses with dental challenges or who bolt their food.

Specialized Use Cases for Alfalfa Products

For Senior Horses

Older horses often struggle with chewing and digesting long-stemmed forage. When soaked, alfalfa pellets offer a softer, more manageable texture that is easier for them to consume while still providing the essential nutrients they need.

For Horses with Ulcers

Alfalfa’s high calcium content can help buffer stomach acid, making it beneficial for horses prone to ulcers. Feeding a portion of alfalfa forage before exercise or travel can help reduce gastric irritation.

For Underweight Horses

If your horse needs to gain weight, alfalfa pellets and cubes can provide calorie-dense nutrition without requiring large volumes of forage. Combining these with a balanced concentrate can expedite healthy weight gain.

For Horses with Metabolic Issues

Alfalfa is a low-sugar legume and can be an excellent addition to the diets of horses that require low-sugar forage. 

Storage and Handling Best Practices

Proper storage of alfalfa products is essential to maintaining their quality. Always store pellets and cubes in a cool, dry place. Bagged products should be sealed to prevent moisture contamination, which can lead to mold or spoilage.

Tips:

• Use airtight containers for opened bags.
• Monitor for pests.
• Rotate stock to use older bags first.

Sustainability and Giving Back

At Greenway Animal Nutrition, we take pride in our commitment to sustainable agriculture and community support. Our forage products are not just a means to feed horses but a reflection of our dedication to quality, animal welfare, and environmental responsibility.

We work closely with farmers, researchers, and veterinarians to ensure that every bag we produce meets the highest standards. Our company culture is deeply rooted in giving back, whether it’s through local charity partnerships or educational outreach programs that empower horse owners with the knowledge they need to succeed.

Choosing the Right Alfalfa Product for Your Horse

Every horse is different, and so are their nutritional requirements. When deciding which alfalfa product to incorporate into your horse’s diet, consider:

• Age and Life Stage: Foals, adult horses, and seniors all have different needs.
• Activity Level: A competitive jumper will have different nutritional needs than a pasture companion.
• Health Conditions: Digestive issues, dental problems, or metabolic disorders influence the type of forage to use.
• Feeding Routine: Whether you feed multiple times a day or only once or twice, your schedule may influence whether you use pellets or cubes.

A consultation with a veterinarian or equine nutritionist can also help tailor a feeding program that maximizes the benefits of alfalfa products.

Invest in Your Horse’s Health

Alfalfa products offer versatile, nutrient-rich options for every type of horse. From supplemental pellets to premium cubes, these forage forms provide targeted benefits that can enhance your horse’s health, performance, and well-being. When used correctly, alfalfa products can become an indispensable part of your equine feeding program.

At Greenway Animal Nutrition, we recognize that high-quality feed is essential for maintaining healthy, well-nourished horses. That’s why we offer premium forage products designed to meet the needs of horse owners, breeders, and trainers. Whether you’re caring for a high-performance racehorse, a trusted riding companion, or a herd on your farm, our diverse selection of forage pellets and cubes provides a reliable feeding solution.

Reach out to us today! Experience the Greenway difference and see how our dedication to quality, sustainability, and animal health can support your horse’s journey.