Maintaining optimal weight in horses is a delicate balance that requires attentive care, a well-structured diet, and high-quality forage. For many horse owners, especially those dealing with hard keepers, senior horses, or animals recovering from illness, weight gain can be a top priority. This is where alfalfa cubes often come into the conversation as a potential solution. But are alfalfa cubes really effective for weight gain? What makes them different from other types of forage? And are they safe and beneficial for all horses?
Reach Out to Us Today! Our Forages
What Are Alfalfa Cubes?
Alfalfa cubes are compressed sun-cured alfalfa hay. Typically, they are 1 ¼ inches in diameter and are formed by chopping and compressing alfalfa under high pressure. This process not only makes them convenient to store and transport but also ensures consistency in nutrition and fiber content.
Alfalfa cubes are commonly used as a forage replacement or supplement and can be soaked in water to aid digestion, particularly for older horses or those with dental issues.
Nutritional Profile: Why Alfalfa Cubes Stand Out
Alfalfa is a legume, unlike grasses such as timothy or orchard grass, and it naturally boasts a richer nutritional profile. Here’s why alfalfa cubes are prized in the equine world:
- High Protein Content: Alfalfa cubes typically contain 14% to 18% crude protein, making them an excellent choice for horses that need to gain or maintain muscle mass.
- Energy Density: Alfalfa is higher in calories than most grass hays, with digestible energy levels of around 1.0 Mcal/lb.—perfect for underweight or hard-working horses.
- Calcium Rich: Alfalfa contains significantly more calcium than grass hay, supporting bone health and aiding in muscle contractions and nerve function.
- Fiber for Gut Health: Though energy-dense, alfalfa cubes still provide a valuable source of digestible fiber that helps keep the horse’s digestive system moving properly.
How Alfalfa Cubes Promote Weight Gain
For horses that struggle to gain or maintain weight, the primary goal is increasing caloric intake without overfeeding grain or starchy feeds, which can pose health risks like colic or laminitis. Alfalfa cubes present a safer alternative.
Here’s how they help:
1. Increased Caloric Intake
Because alfalfa cubes are more energy-dense than grass hay, horses can consume more calories without drastically increasing their overall forage volume. This is especially useful for horses with small appetites or those on limited feed time schedules.
2. Muscle Maintenance and Growth
Thanks to their high-quality protein content, alfalfa cubes help support lean muscle development. This is especially beneficial for performance horses, growing horses, and those recovering from illness or injury.
3. Digestibility
Alfalfa is more digestible than most grass hays, meaning horses can extract and utilize more nutrients from every bite. This increases feed efficiency—key for weight gain and overall condition improvement.
4. Palatability
Horses tend to love the taste of alfalfa. For picky eaters, introducing alfalfa cubes can stimulate appetite and encourage better overall intake.
Ideal Candidates for Alfalfa Cubes
Alfalfa cubes can be a powerful feeding tool, but they’re not the right fit for every horse. Below are some ideal candidates:
- Senior Horses: Especially those who have trouble chewing long-stem hay. Soaked alfalfa cubes are soft, easy to chew, and packed with nutrients.
- Hard Keepers: Horses with high metabolisms that struggle to gain weight benefit from the extra calories and protein.
- Performance Horses: Active horses in training or competition need more energy and protein, which alfalfa cubes readily provide.
- Broodmares and Growing Foals: The nutritional demands of growth, gestation, and lactation make alfalfa cubes a valuable addition to their diet.
Feeding Tips: How to Safely Introduce Alfalfa Cubes
While alfalfa cubes can be incredibly beneficial, proper feeding practices are key. Here are some tips:
1. Start Slowly
Introduce alfalfa cubes gradually to allow your horse’s digestive system to adjust. Begin with a small portion mixed into their regular hay or feed and increase the amount over a week or two.
2. Soak When Necessary
To prevent choke, especially in older horses or those that eat quickly, soak alfalfa cubes in water for 15–30 minutes before feeding. This also ensures hydration and ease of chewing.
3. Balance the Diet
Because alfalfa is high in calcium and protein, it’s important to balance it with other feed components. Overfeeding can lead to mineral imbalances or excessive energy intake. Consulting a veterinarian or equine nutritionist is always a smart move.
4. Storage and Freshness
Store alfalfa cubes in a cool, dry area to maintain freshness. Avoid cubes that are dusty, moldy, or have a sour smell.
Addressing Common Concerns About Alfalfa Cubes
Some horse owners are hesitant to use alfalfa cubes due to concerns about overfeeding or health issues. Let’s clear up a few common misconceptions:
“Alfalfa makes horses hot.”
While some owners believe alfalfa causes hyperactivity, this myth has been largely debunked. Increased energy levels are usually due to excessive calorie intake rather than the alfalfa itself. When balanced correctly, alfalfa is unlikely to make a horse “hot.”
“Too much protein is bad for kidneys.”
While excessive protein in the diet does increase urine output (due to nitrogen excretion), there is no evidence that high-protein diets harm healthy equine kidneys. For horses with existing kidney issues, consultation with a vet is essential before introducing alfalfa cubes.
“Alfalfa causes laminitis.”
Alfalfa is lower in non-structural carbohydrates (NSCs) than many grass hay options, making it a safer choice than grain or sugary feeds for many laminitic horses. However, its high energy content does mean portion control is vital.
Real-World Applications: Success Stories from the Barn
Many horse owners and trainers have seen dramatic results using alfalfa cubes in their feeding programs. From rescuing underweight horses to fueling high-performance athletes, the versatility of alfalfa cubes speaks for itself.
An aging gelding with dental problems struggled to maintain weight on grass hay alone. After switching out grass hay for soaked alfalfa cubes, his body condition improved visibly within weeks, and he showed renewed energy and vitality.
- Case 2: The Young Hard Keeper
A high-strung Thoroughbred filly in training was burning more calories than she could consume. Supplementing her diet with alfalfa cubes helped her gain and maintain a healthy weight while supporting her demanding athletic schedule.
- Case 3: The Post-Surgery Recovery
A gelding recovering from surgery needed extra nutrition but couldn’t handle large amounts of grain. Alfalfa cubes provided a gentle, fiber-rich calorie boost that helped him recover without digestive upset.
Are Alfalfa Cubes Right for Your Horse?
Alfalfa cubes are more than just a convenient feed option—they’re a nutritional powerhouse that can make a real difference for horses that need help gaining weight or maintaining optimal condition. With a superior protein profile, digestibility, and palatability, they offer a targeted and balanced way to support your horse’s health.
However, like all feeding strategies, success lies in customization. Not every horse will need the high energy content of alfalfa cubes, and overfeeding can lead to complications. Work with your vet or equine nutritionist to build a diet that aligns with your horse’s individual needs.
Choose Greenway Animal Nutrition for Quality You Can Trust
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—including alfalfa cubes—designed to meet the specific needs of horse owners, breeders, and trainers across all disciplines.
Whether you’re caring for a high-performance racehorse, a trusted riding companion, or a growing herd on your farm, our diverse selection of forage pellets, cubes, and meal provides a consistent, reliable, and nutritious feeding solution.
Reach out to us today and discover how our alfalfa cubes can help your horses thrive—because better nutrition starts with better forage.
Reach Out to Us Today! Our Forages
Feeding your horse the right forage can be the difference between a healthy, thriving animal and one that’s nutritionally deficient or difficult to manage. Among the many forage options available to today’s equine caretakers, alfalfa cubes for horses are becoming increasingly popular. These compact, easy-to-feed cubes offer a convenient and nutrient-dense alternative to traditional hay, and they come with a variety of benefits. But are they the right choice for your horse?
Reach Out to Us Today! Our Forages
What Are Alfalfa Cubes?
Alfalfa cubes are compressed blocks of alfalfa hay, typically about 1 1/4 inches in diameter and several inches long. They’re made by chopping premium alfalfa into small pieces and then compressing them into uniform cubes without the need for binders or fillers.
Alfalfa, a legume forage, is known for its rich nutritional profile—high in protein, calcium, and digestible fiber—making it an ideal option for many types of horses, from high-performance athletes to those with specific dietary needs.
The Pros of Feeding Alfalfa Cubes for Horses
1. High Nutritional Value
One of the most compelling reasons to feed alfalfa cubes is their excellent nutritional profile. Alfalfa is naturally rich in:
- Crude protein (16–20%)
- Calcium
- Digestible fiber
- Vitamins A, D, E, and K
This makes it especially useful for horses with higher energy or nutrient needs, such as:
- Lactating mares
- Young, growing foals
- Hard keepers
- Performance horses in heavy training
2. Consistent Quality
Unlike baled hay, which can vary significantly depending on harvest time, weather, and storage conditions, alfalfa cubes tend to offer more consistent quality. When you buy a high-quality brand, you can count on uniformity in nutrition and appearance with every batch.
3. Convenient and Space-Saving
Cubes are easier to store and transport than traditional bales. They take up less space, are less messy, and don’t require a hay loft. For urban horse owners or those with limited space, this convenience is a huge plus.
4. Less Dust and Mold
Alfalfa cubes are low in dust, which makes them ideal for horses with respiratory issues such as heaves (recurrent airway obstruction). Properly processed cubes are also less likely to harbor mold, providing a safer feeding option when stored correctly.
5. Reduces Forage Waste
Horses are notorious for wasting hay, trampling, soiling, and picking through it. Alfalfa cubes minimize this waste. They’re typically eaten entirely, leading to better feed efficiency and potentially lower long-term costs.
Potential Cons of Feeding Alfalfa Cubes
While alfalfa cubes for horses come with many benefits, they aren’t without their drawbacks. Here are a few considerations:
1. Risk of Choking
Because cubes are compact, horses may choke if they eat them too quickly. To mitigate this, many horse owners opt to soak the cubes in water before feeding. Soaking not only reduces the choking risk but also provides extra hydration, especially helpful for senior horses or those with dental issues.
2. High Calcium-to-Phosphorus Ratio
Alfalfa naturally contains a high level of calcium relative to phosphorus (often 5:1 or more), which can lead to imbalances if not managed properly, particularly in young horses or those with specific mineral requirements. It’s crucial to balance the rest of your horse’s diet accordingly.
3. Too Rich for Easy Keepers
For horses that gain weight easily or have metabolic conditions like Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS) or insulin resistance, alfalfa cubes might be too calorie-dense. These horses typically do better on lower-protein, lower-calorie hays or hay alternatives.
Cubes do contain the long fiber necessary and can completely replace hay.
How to Feed Alfalfa Cubes: Tips and Guidelines
1. Introduce Gradually
As with any dietary change, it’s important to introduce alfalfa cubes slowly. Start by replacing a small portion of your horse’s current hay ration with cubes and increase gradually over 7–10 days to allow the digestive system to adjust.
2. Soak When Necessary
For horses prone to choking, senior horses with dental issues, or those who bolt their food, soaking is highly recommended. Add enough water to cover the cubes and let them sit for 15–30 minutes until soft and mushy.
Tip: Use warm water in winter months for added palatability and comfort.
3. Portion by Weight, Not Volume
Always measure feed by weight, not volume. A scoop of alfalfa cubes may weigh more than the same scoop of hay, potentially leading to overfeeding. Use a scale to determine how much your horse actually needs.
On average, a 1,000-lb horse requires 1.5–2% of its body weight in forage daily. If feeding exclusively cubes, that’s approximately 15–20 lbs. of cubes per day, divided into multiple feedings.
4. Pair with a Balancer or Vitamin/Mineral Supplement
To prevent nutritional imbalances—especially related to calcium and phosphorus—pair alfalfa cubes with a ration balancer or comprehensive vitamin/mineral supplement. This is particularly important if alfalfa cubes make up the majority of your horse’s diet.
5. Store Properly
Keep alfalfa cubes in a dry, cool, pest-free environment. Resealable bins or containers work well to protect them from moisture and rodents.
When Are Alfalfa Cubes a Smart Choice?
Alfalfa cubes are not a one-size-fits-all solution, but they shine in several situations:
Traveling or Showing
Their compact size and low mess factor make them ideal for hauling to shows, clinics, or trail rides.
Horses with Respiratory Conditions
Their low dust content offers a safer option for horses with heaves or other respiratory concerns.
Senior Horses with Dental Issues
When soaked, alfalfa cubes become easy to chew and digest, making them suitable for aging equines.
High-Performance and Hard-Working Horses
Horses in heavy training or those that struggle to maintain weight benefit from the high calorie and protein content.
Broodmares and Growing Foals
The extra nutrients in alfalfa support reproduction, lactation, and growth when balanced with other dietary needs.
When to Avoid or Limit Alfalfa Cubes
Conversely, you may want to limit or avoid alfalfa cubes in the following scenarios:
- Easy keepers prone to obesity.
- Horses already receiving a calcium-rich diet from other sources.
Frequently Asked Questions About Alfalfa Cubes
Q: Can alfalfa cubes completely replace hay?
Yes, in many cases, especially when hay good quality is unavailable or impractical to feed.
Q: Are alfalfa cubes the same as pellets?
Not quite. Alfalfa pellets are ground into a fine consistency before being formed into smaller pieces. Pellets also cannot be used as a hay replacement and are only a supplemental addition to diets.
Q: Do I need to soak cubes before feeding?
Not always—but soaking is advised if your horse eats too fast, has dental issues, or is prone to choke. Otherwise, healthy adult horses can often eat them dry without issue.
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’re proud to offer premium forage products, including top-tier alfalfa cubes for horses.
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, cubes, and meal provides a reliable, nutritious, and convenient feeding solution.
We are committed to:
- Sourcing only the best alfalfa
- Offering products with consistent quality and nutrition
- Providing forage options that suit a wide range of horse types and dietary needs
Are Alfalfa Cubes Right for Your Horse?
Ultimately, alfalfa cubes are a powerful tool in your equine nutrition toolbox. They offer a convenient, high-quality source of forage that’s especially well-suited to horses with elevated nutritional demands or unique feeding challenges. However, like any feed change, they must be introduced thoughtfully and balanced appropriately within your horse’s overall diet.
If you’re looking for a reliable forage option that supports your horse’s health, performance, and well-being, alfalfa cubes for horses might be just what you need.
Ready to Upgrade Your Horse’s Nutrition?
Greenway Animal Nutrition is here to help you make the best choices for your horse. With our range of high-quality forage products, including premium alfalfa cubes, you can feed with confidence, knowing you’re giving your horse the nourishment it deserves.
Contact us today to learn more or place an order. Let’s work together to keep your horses healthy, happy, and thriving.
Reach Out to Us Today! Our Forages
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.
Reach Out to Us Today! Our Forages
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:
With protein levels averaging between 15% and 20%, alfalfa pellets provide an excellent source of this critical nutrient for growing, lactating, or working horses.
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.
Alfalfa is naturally high in calcium, making it beneficial for young, growing horses or lactating mares that require additional minerals.
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.
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.
Reach Out to Us Today! Our Forages
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.
Reach Out to Us Today! Our Forages
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.
Reach Out to Us Today! Our Forages
