The Science Behind Alfalfa Pellets: Why They’re More Than Just Compressed Hay

When it comes to equine nutrition, forage is the foundation. For thousands of years, horses have thrived on diets rich in grasses and hay, but as the needs of modern horse care have evolved, so too have the forms in which we provide that forage. One of the most significant innovations in recent decades is the development of alfalfa pellets—a scientifically crafted feed that offers more than just convenience. These small, nutrient-dense nuggets are not just compressed hay; they represent a purposeful and effective way to deliver essential nutrition.

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What Are Alfalfa Pellets?

Alfalfa pellets are made from dried, ground alfalfa that is then compressed into uniform pellet form. Alfalfa itself is a legume, rich in protein, fiber, calcium, and essential vitamins. When processed into pellet form, alfalfa retains its nutritional value while offering practical benefits such as ease of storage, consistency in quality, and reduced waste.

But these pellets are much more than simply convenience feed. The process of turning alfalfa into pellets preserves its integrity, allowing the beneficial nutrients to remain bioavailable while eliminating many of the challenges associated with traditional baled hay.

How Alfalfa Pellets Are Made: A Look at the Process

Understanding why alfalfa pellets are so effective requires a closer look at how they’re made. The production process is grounded in both agricultural science and animal nutrition.

Harvesting at Peak Nutritional Value

Alfalfa is harvested at an optimal stage of maturity to ensure it contains the highest levels of digestible fiber and protein. This often means cutting it during the early bloom stage, when nutrient density is at its peak.

Grinding

Once harvested and dried, the alfalfa is ground into a uniform meal.

Pelletizing

The ground alfalfa is then fed into a pellet mill, where it’s compressed under heat and pressure through a die to form pellets. Importantly, no artificial binders or additives are needed—the lignin in the alfalfa acts as a natural binding agent.

Cooling and Packaging

Once formed, the pellets are cooled and stored in moisture-proof packaging to maintain freshness and nutritional quality until they reach your barn.

This efficient, controlled process creates a feed product that’s not only nutrient-rich but also highly consistent from batch to batch—something traditional baled hay often lacks.

Nutritional Profile: What Makes Alfalfa Pellets a Powerhouse?

Alfalfa pellets are nutritionally dense and boast a number of qualities that are particularly valuable for horses:

  • High Protein Content

With protein levels averaging between 15% and 20%, alfalfa pellets provide an excellent source of this critical nutrient for growing, lactating, or working horses.

  • Digestible Fiber

Horses require forage for proper digestion and gut motility. The digestible fiber in alfalfa supports healthy gastrointestinal function and encourages chewing, which increases saliva production and buffers stomach acid.

  • Rich in Calcium

Alfalfa is naturally high in calcium, making it beneficial for young, growing horses or lactating mares that require additional minerals.

  • Low in Sugar and Starch

Alfalfa pellets are naturally low in non-structural carbohydrates (NSCs), making them a smart choice for horses with metabolic conditions like insulin resistance or laminitis.

Advantages 

 

1. Consistent Quality and Nutrition

Alfalfa pellets are processed under controlled conditions, ensuring consistent nutrient levels and quality.

2. Ease of Storage and Transport

Pellets are compact, stackable, and typically come in moisture-proof bags that make them easy to store and transport.

3. Ideal for Older Horses or Those with Dental Issues

Alfalfa pellets are easy to chew and can even be soaked into a mash, providing a palatable and safe alternative.

4. Customizable Rations

Because pellets are easy to measure, they allow for more precise feeding. This is ideal when you need to carefully manage caloric intake or supplement with other feeds.

Common Applications in Equine Diets

Alfalfa pellets are incredibly versatile and can be used as a supplement in a variety of equine feeding situations:

  • Performance Horses: These athletes require higher energy and protein levels to support their demanding workloads. Alfalfa pellets provide dense nutrition.
  • Senior Horses: As horses age, their teeth and digestive efficiency decline. Soaked alfalfa pellets are a soft, easy-to-digest forage solution.
  • Growing Foals and Lactating Mares: High in calcium and protein, alfalfa pellets meet the nutritional demands of mares producing milk and foals developing muscle and bone.
  • Horses with Respiratory Issues: The low-dust nature of pellets makes them a safe option for horses with respiratory conditions. 
  • Weight Gain and Conditioning: Underweight horses can benefit from the high-calorie content of alfalfa pellets, which provide concentrated nutrition in smaller portions.

Addressing Common Concerns

Despite the many advantages, some horse owners are concerned about feeding alfalfa pellets. Let’s address a few of the most common.

Will alfalfa make my horse “hot”?

This is a common myth. The energy provided by alfalfa comes primarily from digestible fiber and protein, not sugar or starch. Unless your horse is already overfed or extremely sensitive, alfalfa pellets are unlikely to cause hyperactivity.

Is the calcium content too high?

While alfalfa is indeed high in calcium, it doesn’t typically present problems unless fed in excessive quantities. For horses on balanced diets, the calcium-phosphorus ratio remains within a safe range. If you’re unsure, a nutritionist can help tailor your feed program.

Do I need to soak alfalfa pellets?

Not necessarily. Many horses eat dry pellets just fine, but soaking is recommended for older horses, those prone to choke, or when introducing pellets for the first time.

Environmental and Economic Benefits

Feeding alfalfa pellets isn’t just beneficial for your horse—it can also positively impact your wallet and the planet.

  • Lower Overall Feed Cost

Alfalfa pellets are a more economical supplement due to their single-ingredient nature compared to many other supplemental pellets on the market. 

  • Reduced Environmental Footprint

Compact and less prone to spoilage, alfalfa pellets generate less waste. Additionally, the controlled drying process reduces the need for preservatives.

How to Transition to Alfalfa Pellets

Switching your horse to alfalfa pellets should be done gradually over a period of 7–10 days to allow the digestive system to adjust.

Always monitor your horse’s weight, coat, and behavior during the transition, and consult with a veterinarian or equine nutritionist if you have specific concerns.

Why Choose Greenway Animal Nutrition?

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 diverse needs of horse owners, breeders, and trainers.

Whether you’re feeding a high-performance racehorse, a trusted trail companion, or a herd on your family farm, our alfalfa pellets, cubes, and meals provide a reliable, nutrient-dense feeding solution that you can count on.

What sets Greenway apart?

  • Strict Quality Control: We source only the finest alfalfa and process it in facilities that meet rigorous safety and nutritional standards.
  • Transparency: Our feed labels clearly outline ingredients and nutrient profiles so you know exactly what you’re feeding.
  • Customer Focus: We’re here to support your goals, whether you’re managing a competition barn or caring for a retired pasture horse.

Reach Out Today

Alfalfa pellets are more than just compressed hay—they’re a scientifically crafted, nutritionally balanced, and highly effective feed option for horses of all ages and lifestyles. If you’re looking to elevate your feeding program with consistency, quality, and convenience, Greenway Animal Nutrition is here to help.

Reach out to us today to learn more about our forage products and how we can support the health and performance of your horses. Let us be your trusted partner in animal nutrition.

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Timothy Pellets 101: A Forage Option Your Horse Will Love

Proper equine nutrition is one of the most critical components of horse health and performance. Whether your horse is a competitive athlete or a leisurely trail companion, the foundation of their diet should always be high-quality forage. For many horse owners, the challenge lies in finding forage that is not only palatable and nutritionally balanced but also easy to store, convenient to feed, and safe for horses with special dietary needs. That’s where Timothy pellets come into play.

Timothy pellets have surged in popularity in recent years because of their high fiber value and easy-to-feed format. When paired with a clean, comfortable environment—especially one using straw bedding—they offer a balanced, horse-friendly solution that promotes digestive health and reduces unnecessary sugars that can lead to metabolic complications.

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What Are Timothy Pellets?

Timothy pellets are a type of processed forage made from sun-cured Timothy hay, which is chopped, ground, and compressed into small, nutrient-dense pellets. These pellets retain the nutritional integrity of traditional hay while offering enhanced convenience for storage and feeding.

They are uniform in nutrient composition and easy to measure, which simplifies portion control, particularly for horses requiring a managed diet.

The Nutritional Profile of Timothy Pellets

One of the main reasons horse owners are switching to Timothy pellets is their ideal nutritional makeup. Timothy hay is known for its moderate protein content and high fiber traits, which are preserved in the pellet form.

Typical nutritional values include:

  • Crude Protein: 7%–10%
  • Crude Fiber: 30%–35%
  • Calcium-Phosphorus Ratio: Balanced, typically around 1.5:1

This profile makes Timothy pellets especially well-suited for:

  • Senior horses with dental issues
  • Performance horses needing a steady fiber base
  • Easy keepers who don’t need excessive calories

Benefits of Feeding Timothy Pellets

 

1. High Fiber

Their high fiber content promotes healthy digestion, supports the gut microbiome, and ensures sustained energy release.

2. Consistent

Every batch is consistent, unlike traditional hay bales, which can vary in quality and content.

3. Easy to Store and Feed

Unlike bulky hay bales, Timothy pellets come in manageable bags that are easy to stack and store. They’re ideal for urban barns, small feed rooms, or for horse owners who need a tidy, space-efficient solution.

4. Perfect for Older Horses or Those with Dental Issues

Aged horses or those with missing or sensitive teeth may struggle to chew their feeds. When soaked, Timothy pellets create a soft, palatable mash that’s gentle on the mouth and easy to swallow, ensuring they still get the fiber they need.

5. Ideal for Travel and Shows

If you show or travel with your horse, Timothy pellets are your best friend. Their compact form makes it easy to transport a consistent, high-quality supplement your horse is used to, reducing the risk of digestive upsets from sudden changes.

How Timothy Pellets Compare to Other Forage Options

 

Alfalfa Pellets

While alfalfa pellets are higher in protein and calcium, they’re also richer in calories. This may be beneficial for hard keepers or growing horses, but Timothy pellets are often preferable for horses that need a lower calorie option.

Hay Cubes

Hay cubes are similar in nutritional value but are larger and may require soaking to prevent choking, especially in greedy eaters.

Straw Bedding and Timothy Pellets: The Ideal Pairing

A clean, safe environment is just as important as proper nutrition. That’s where chopped straw bedding shines, especially when used alongside Timothy pellets.

Benefits of Chopped Straw Bedding:

  • Natural, comfortable bedding option: Horses find straw warm and soft, which can reduce stress and improve rest.
  • Low dust: Straw has significantly less dust than shavings, making it an ideal pairing for horses with allergies or respiratory conditions.
  • Digestible in small amounts: Should a horse nibble on straw bedding, it’s far less problematic than wood-based options, though it’s still wise to monitor intake.

When chopped straw bedding is combined with Timothy pellets, a beneficial environment is created, supporting respiratory health and reducing the likelihood of colic, allergies, and other preventable ailments.

Feeding Guidelines for Timothy Pellets

Timothy pellets are highly versatile and can be fed in a number of ways:

  • Dry feeding for horses with strong chewing abilities
  • Soaked pellets (10–15 minutes in water) for seniors or horses prone to choke
  • Mixed with supplements or medications for improved palatability and intake control

Suggested Feeding Rates:

 

  • As a supplement to hay: 0.5%–1% of body weight, depending on needs

Always transition slowly when introducing Timothy pellets. Start with a small amount and gradually increase over 7–10 days to allow the gut microbiome to adjust.

Storage Tips for Timothy Pellets

To preserve quality and freshness:

  • Store in a cool, dry place
  • Keep bags sealed or in airtight bins to prevent pests
  • Use older bags first (FIFO method: First In, First Out)
  • Avoid exposure to excessive moisture to prevent mold growth

Common Questions About Timothy Pellets

 

Can I feed Timothy pellets as the only forage source?

No. Ground hay in any form cannot replace long-stem hay or forage cubes as a sole forage source. Timothy pellets are to be fed as a supplemental offering only. 

Are Timothy pellets safe for insulin-resistant horses?

No. Grass hays are higher in sugars and starches than legume hays and may not fall under the recommended 10% NSC guideline. 

What’s the best way to introduce Timothy pellets to a picky eater?

Try mixing them with a bit of your horse’s favorite feed or soaking them in a warm mash. Most horses quickly acquire a taste for the natural sweetness of Timothy grass.

Timothy Pellets: A Smart Choice for Every Barn

Whether you’re dealing with allergies, storage challenges, or picky eaters, Timothy pellets offer an elegant and effective solution. Their high fiber and dust-free properties make them a favorite among equine nutritionists, veterinarians, and experienced horse owners alike.

Pair them with straw bedding for a clean, horse-friendly environment, and you’ve got a setup that supports not only nutritional wellness but also overall comfort and respiratory health.

Choose Greenway Animal Nutrition for Premium Forage Solutions

At Greenway Animal Nutrition, we recognize that high-quality feed is essential for maintaining healthy, well-nourished horses. That’s why we’re proud to offer premium forage products, including Timothy pellets, designed to meet the unique needs of horse owners, breeders, and trainers.

Whether you’re caring for a high-performance racehorse, a trusted riding companion, or managing a herd on your farm, our forage selection—featuring pellets and cubes provides a reliable, consistent, and safe feeding solution.

Ready to give your horse the nutrition they deserve? Explore our full line of forage products and contact our team today for personalized support.

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Ultimate Guide to Horse Bedding: Choosing the Right Material for Your Stable

When it comes to equine care, the importance of high-quality horse bedding cannot be overstated. It’s more than just a place for your horse to rest—it plays a vital role in maintaining hoof health, respiratory well-being, hygiene, and overall comfort. Whether you’re housing a competition horse or a beloved family companion, choosing the right bedding material ensures your stable remains clean, safe, and conducive to your horse’s health.

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Why Horse Bedding Matters

Before we dive into the types of materials available, let’s review why horse bedding is such a crucial component of stable management:

  • Absorbs moisture to keep stalls dry and hygienic
  • Provides insulation from cold floors
  • Cushions joints and supports comfortable resting
  • Reduces ammonia fumes from urine, promoting respiratory health
  • Encourages natural behaviors like lying down or rolling
  • Improves stall appearance and reduces slip hazards

Poor bedding choices can lead to hoof problems (like thrush or abscesses), respiratory issues, or simply a grumpy horse. So, making an informed decision is key.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Horse Bedding

Every stable is unique. What works in a high-performance barn may not be suitable for a backyard setup. Here are key factors to weigh when choosing the ideal bedding:

  • Absorbency: How well does the material manage moisture?
  • Dust level: Dusty bedding can irritate the respiratory tract.
  • Availability and cost: Is the material locally available and economically feasible?
  • Ease of cleaning: How easily can soiled material be removed?
  • Compostability: How well does the bedding break down into compost?
  • Palatability: Will your horse try to eat it?
  • Allergies or sensitivities: Does your horse have known issues?

Once you understand your priorities, it’s easier to narrow down your options.

Chopped Straw Bedding: A Classic Choice with Timeless Appeal

Straw is one of the oldest and most widely used horse bedding materials. It’s particularly common in breeding barns and large-scale farms. But it’s not just tradition that keeps straw relevant—it offers a variety of benefits.

What Is Straw Bedding?

Straw is the dried stalks of cereal crops such as wheat, barley, or oats left after the grain has been harvested. Wheat straw, prized for its durability and hollow stalks, is the most commonly used straw for horse bedding.

Benefits of Chopped Straw Bedding

Comfortable and Insulating

Chopped straw creates a fluffy, warm bed that offers excellent insulation against cold concrete or earth floors. Horses can lie down comfortably for extended periods, which is essential for proper rest and health.

Visually Appealing

A freshly bedded stall with golden straw looks clean, inviting, and well-maintained—an aesthetic benefit for barns that host visitors, clients, or inspectors.

Highly Palatable for Mares and Foals

Many breeding barns use chopped straw because it’s safe for foals that may nibble on it. It’s also preferred for mares as it doesn’t stick to or irritate sensitive reproductive areas during foaling.

Cost-Effective and Widely Available

In agricultural regions, straw is plentiful and affordable.

Quick Composting

Chopped straw breaks down 3x faster than other options in compost piles, especially when mixed with manure. This makes waste management easier and more sustainable.

Potential Drawbacks of Straw

While straw has many strengths, it’s not without limitations:

  • May Be Eaten by Horses

Some horses may overindulge, leading to weight gain or impaction colic. Monitoring intake is essential.

 

Best Practices for Using Straw

 

  • Spot clean daily, removing urine spots and manure piles while fluffing the clean straw.
  • Fully strip stalls weekly for hygiene and comfort.
  • Store in a dry area to prevent mold growth.
  • Avoid oat straw, which is more palatable and more likely to be consumed.

Chopped straw works especially well for horses that spend part of the day outside or for owners seeking a natural, farm-fresh option.

Other Horse Bedding Options to Consider

While chopped straw is a standout choice, it’s worth exploring other materials to determine what best suits your management style and horse needs.

1. Wood Shavings

Softwood shavings (typically pine) are popular for their high absorbency and pleasant smell. They’re easy to muck out and come in compressed bags for easy storage. However, they can be dusty, and black walnut shavings are toxic to horses.

2. Wood Pellets

These compressed pine pellets expand upon contact with moisture and create a highly absorbent, low-dust bedding. They’re great for managing odor, but can be more expensive.

3. Sawdust

A byproduct of lumber mills, sawdust is soft and absorbent but can be very dusty, posing respiratory concerns. It’s best for outdoor use or open-air barns.

4. Hemp Bedding

Made from the core of the hemp plant, this eco-friendly bedding is ultra-absorbent and composts quickly. It’s also low-dust, making it ideal for horses with respiratory sensitivities.

5. Peat Moss

Peat moss offers superior moisture and ammonia absorption. It’s excellent for horses with respiratory or hoof conditions, though it’s dark and less aesthetically pleasing.

6. Recycled Paper

Made from shredded newspaper or cardboard, this bedding is low-dust, absorbent, and compostable. It’s especially useful in rehabilitation or medical stalls.

7. Rubber Mats (with Bedding)

Rubber mats are not a bedding per se, but they reduce the amount needed. Most stables use mats with a lighter layer of bedding on top for cushion and hygiene.

Which Horse Bedding Is Best for You?

Every horse and every stable is different. Choosing the best bedding depends on your answers to questions like:

  • Does your horse have allergies or respiratory issues?
  • Is your horse turned out during the day or kept in the stall for long hours?
  • Are you looking for cost-efficiency or luxury?
  • What’s your manure disposal plan?

For many, chopped straw bedding strikes a great balance, especially when comfort, tradition, and cost are top priorities. But you can also mix materials (like mats with straw or pellets in high-moisture corners) to create a hybrid approach.

Environmental and Waste Management Considerations

Stable waste is a real concern. The average horse produces 40–50 pounds of manure and used bedding per day. Choosing a bedding that composts easily, like chopped straw or hemp, can help reduce environmental impact and even enrich your pastures or gardens.

Tips to manage waste better:

  • Rotate compost piles to speed decomposition.
  • Partner with local farms or gardeners who need organic material.
  • Avoid chemically treated bedding that could harm plants or soil.

Proper waste management not only supports your local ecosystem but also saves money on disposal services.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Horse Bedding

  1. Buy from reliable suppliers to ensure consistent quality and dryness.
  2. Observe your horse’s behavior—if they’re avoiding lying down or showing signs of discomfort, reconsider the bedding.
  3. Invest in quality stable equipment (like forks and wheelbarrows) to streamline cleaning.
  4. Stay flexible—you may need to adjust bedding seasonally or as your horse ages.

The Bottom Line: A Comfortable Stall Builds a Healthy Horse

Choosing the right horse bedding is about striking a balance between your horse’s health, your budget, and your stable management capabilities. While many modern materials offer impressive benefits, chopped straw bedding remains a reliable, affordable, and horse-friendly option that has stood the test of time.

When maintained properly, chopped straw provides excellent comfort, insulation, and compostability. It’s especially well-suited for broodmares, foals, and horses housed in traditional barns. If you’re looking for a natural, soft, and budget-conscious bedding material, chopped straw may be the perfect fit for your stable.

Partner with Greenway Animal Nutrition

At Greenway Animal Nutrition, we understand that every aspect of your horse’s care matters—from what goes underfoot to what goes into their feed bucket. That’s why we proudly provide premium forage solutions that complement your bedding choice and support your horse’s health from the inside out.

Whether you’re raising champions, nurturing companions, or managing a working farm, our lineup of forage pellets, cubes ensures consistent nutrition tailored to your horses’ needs.

🟢 Explore our high-quality feed and bedding options today

🟢 Experience superior service and support

🟢 Give your horses the foundation for lifelong health

Contact our team to find the right forage products for your stable. Your horse deserves the best—let’s provide it together.

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Why More Barns Are Switching to Horse Bedding Pellets (And How to Make the Transition)

When it comes to maintaining a clean, comfortable, and healthy environment for horses, bedding is one of the most important—and often overlooked—factors. Traditionally, materials like straw bedding and wood shavings have been the go-to choices for stables, but in recent years, more barns have switched to horse bedding pellets.

This transformation is not just a passing trend. It’s a movement driven by practical, environmental, and economic reasons. Whether you’re managing a small private stable or a large commercial barn, understanding why pellets are gaining popularity—and how to transition effectively—can help you improve your operation, reduce costs, and enhance horse care.

 

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The Evolution of Horse Bedding: From Straw to Pellets

For generations, straw bedding has been the default option for horse stalls. It’s abundant in many agricultural regions, offers decent absorption, and provides a soft place for horses to rest. However, straw has notable downsides. It can be dusty, hard to clean, and often harbors mold or insects if not stored properly.

Wood shavings followed as a preferred alternative, especially in areas where lumber is readily available. While more absorbent than straw, wood shavings can still produce a significant amount of dust and require considerable storage space.

Enter horse bedding pellets—a compact, ultra-absorbent, low-dust option that is now becoming the bedding material of choice for many horse owners, breeders, and barn managers.

What Are Horse Bedding Pellets?

Horse bedding pellets are made primarily from natural fibers like straw or wood.

Some versions are treated to reduce dust even further, while others are completely natural, with no chemical additives. Bedding pellets are often packaged in 40-pound bags and are easy to store, stack, and transport.

Why More Barns Are Making the Switch

So why are barns across the country abandoning baled straw bedding and switching to horse bedding pellets? Let’s break down the top reasons.

1. Superior Absorption

One of the standout benefits of horse bedding pellets is their superior absorbency. Pellets can absorb up to four times their weight in moisture, significantly outperforming straw bales or even traditional wood shavings.

This means cleaner stalls with less ammonia buildup, resulting in better air quality for horses and handlers alike. Improved stall hygiene can also reduce respiratory issues and hoof-related conditions like thrush.

2. Lower Dust and Allergen Levels

Dust is a common problem in barns and can be especially harmful to horses with respiratory sensitivities. Compared to baled straw bedding, which often generates significant dust, pellets produce minimal airborne particles. Many are even labeled as low-dust or dust-free, making them a safer choice for sensitive animals and humans.

3. Space-Saving and Efficient Storage

Baled straw takes up a lot of room in storage areas and may require covered protection from moisture. Bedding pellets are incredibly space-efficient. One pallet of pellets can replace several bales of straw and can be stored indoors or in weather-resistant packaging outside.

This is particularly useful for barns with limited storage or those looking to stock up for winter months without sacrificing valuable space.

4. Less Waste, Faster Cleaning

Because bedding pellets absorb so efficiently, less material is needed to keep stalls dry and clean. Plus, once soiled, only the wet or dirty areas need to be removed, leaving dry material behind. This significantly reduces waste and lowers the amount of material sent to manure piles.

Many barn managers report reduced cleaning times, improved labor efficiency, and lower overall bedding costs after making the switch.

5. Eco-Friendly and Compostable

Environmental concerns are increasingly at the top of horse owners’ minds. Straw bedding can take a long time to break down in compost piles and may contain seeds or pesticides. On the other hand, most horse bedding pellets are biodegradable and compost quickly, making them a more sustainable option.

This is ideal for barns looking to maintain an eco-conscious operation and reduce their environmental footprint.

6. Long-Term Cost Savings

While bedding pellets may cost slightly more upfront than baled straw, they often pay for themselves over time. Less product is needed per stall, less waste is produced, and cleaning is faster, which saves on labor costs.

Many barns have found that pellets last longer, require fewer deliveries, and reduce the total expense associated with bedding management.

How to Transition from Baled Straw Bedding to Pellets: Step-by-Step

Making the switch to horse bedding pellets is straightforward, but a smooth transition involves planning. Here’s a guide to help you do it effectively:

Step 1: Evaluate Your Needs

Start by assessing your current setup:

  • How many stalls do you manage?
  • How often do you clean and replace bedding?
  • Are any horses in your care prone to respiratory issues?

This will help you calculate how many bags of pellets to order initially and whether a dust-free formula is needed for sensitive animals.

Step 2: Prepare the Stall

Before laying down pellets, it’s best to completely remove the existing straw bedding and thoroughly clean the stall. Ensure the surface is dry and free from mold or urine buildup.

Some barn managers like to disinfect or lime the floor before introducing new bedding for added sanitation.

Step 3: Spread the Pellets

Spread 4–6 bags evenly in the stall (for a 12′ x 12′ stall).

 

Step 4: Monitor and Adjust

For the first week or two, monitor the stall daily:

  • Add a few fresh pellets as needed.
  • Spot-clean wet or soiled areas only—no need to strip the entire stall.
  • Fluff the bedding with a fork to keep it evenly distributed.

You’ll quickly find a rhythm that works best for your horses and stall setup.

Step 5: Fine-Tune Your Routine

Once your barn team is familiar with using pellets, you’ll be able to optimize the cleaning schedule and predict how much product you need weekly or monthly. Consider tracking your usage and comparing it to past baled straw usage to identify savings and efficiencies.

Addressing Common Concerns About Bedding Pellets

Despite their many advantages, some horse owners hesitate to make the switch due to a few common concerns. Let’s address those:

Will My Horse Eat the Pellets?

While some curious horses may initially investigate or nibble, most find the texture unappealing.

Do Pellets Work in Cold Weather?

Absolutely. In fact, many barns prefer pellets in winter because they absorb well and are easier to store in compact spaces.

When to Stick with Straw Bedding

While pellets are incredibly versatile, there are still scenarios where chopped straw bedding may be preferred:

  • Foaling stalls where extra softness and a natural surface are preferred.

In such cases, some barn managers choose to use pellets as an absorption underlayer, with straw on top for comfort and aesthetics.

A Smarter Bedding Choice for Modern Barns

Horse bedding pellets offer a forward-thinking alternative to traditional baled straw bedding. They combine efficiency, cleanliness, and cost-effectiveness in a tidy, easy-to-manage package. As more barns seek to improve operational efficiency while promoting better health and comfort for their horses, pellets are becoming the go-to solution.

Whether you’re a breeder, trainer, or horse owner, switching to pellets can transform your stall maintenance routine and elevate the care you provide.

Choose the Best for Your Horses

At Greenway Animal Nutrition, we recognize that high-quality feed and stable care are essential for maintaining healthy, well-nourished horses. That’s why we offer premium forage products, including forage pellets and cubes tailored 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 provides a reliable feeding solution, and we’re proud to support your journey toward a cleaner, healthier barn environment.

Ready to upgrade your horse care routine? Contact us today to discover how we can help you feed and care for your horses.

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