Feeding forage is the cornerstone of equine health, and hay nets have become one of the most popular tools in modern horse management. But hay nets are just one piece of a much larger puzzle. Today, horse owners can choose from a wide variety of slow feeders, custom-built options, and hybrid systems that incorporate hay nets in creative and functional ways.
This in-depth guide covers all the essentials and beyond—what hay nets are, how they compare to other slow feeding methods, their benefits, limitations, customization ideas, and how to make the most of them in your barn or pasture.
🌎 What Is a Hay Net?
A hay net is a mesh container used to hold hay and slow down eating. They come in many materials (knotted polyethylene, knotless polypropylene, cotton), mesh sizes (from 3/4″ to 4″), and capacities (small flake nets to round bale nets).
But hay nets aren’t always used alone. They can be part of:
- Wall-mounted feeders
- Ground-level tubs or buckets with nets attached
- Feeder frames or boxes
- Slow feeding structures like the OptiMizer or other enclosed net systems
🚗 Feeding Methods That Use Hay Nets
1. Traditional Hanging Hay Nets
Classic rope or knotless nets tied to a fence post or wall. These slow down feeding but pose risks if hung too high or if used with shod horses.
2. Ground Feeders with Hay Nets
These include tubs, rubber troughs, or DIY PVC frames with nets stretched over the top. They offer a safer feeding height and mimic natural grazing posture. Not recommended for shod horses unless protected by a cover or elevated structure.
Fixes for shoe entanglement:
- Use feeders like the OptiMizer, which has rounded plastic walls and slightly elevates the hay net.
- Place nets outside hoof range
3. Commercial Hay Feeders With Nets Built In
- OptiMizer: Holds 150 lbs of hay, elevated net over a solid frame.
- Freedom Feeder, Hay Chix, Ezehay: Various structures integrating knotless nets.
4. Round Bale Nets
Heavy-duty nets designed to wrap full round bales. Can be placed directly on the ground or in feeder rings. Popular in pasture settings.
5. DIY Hay Feeders with Nets
Popular DIY methods include:
- PVC square feeders with netting stretched across.
- Wood boxes with netting frames.
- Trash bins or tubs with drilled holes and tie points for netting.
Online communities and Pinterest offer hundreds of creative ideas for building feeders that combine safety, slow feeding, and convenience.
Customization Options
Mesh Sizes
- 3/4″ – 1.5″: For slow feeding and weight control
- 2″ – 2.5″: Average size
- 3″+: Easy access or transition net
Note: Many suppliers allow custom orders, so you can get hay nets sized specifically for your DIY feeders.
Many horse owners build custom feeders using PVC frames, metal rims, or wooden boxes to support hay nets without requiring overhead hanging.
Hay Net-Based Feeders
| Product | Type | Hole Size | Price Approx. (Depends on sizes and model) | Best For | Country |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| OptiMizer | Elevated box net | Customizable | Paddock ~$1,000 CAD – $700 USD InStall ~$600 CAD – $450 USD | Pasture or Pens = Paddock Optimizer Stables = InStall | Canada |
| Hay Pillow | Ground-level pillow and hay bags. | 3/4″, 1″, 1-1/4″and 1-3/4″ | Hay Pillows: $49-79.99 Others Hay Nets: $37-$105 Other Hay Bags: $65-$83 | Shod-free horses for the Hay Pillows | USA |
| Freedom Feeder Day Net and Frame (Sold separatedly) | Hanging, Stall Frame Feeder, or 3 String Bale Net | 1″, 1.5″, 2″ | Frame = $84 Net= $70-$209 | Easier with frame, less work | USA |
| Hay Chix | Nets, Hay Racks, Panel Feeders, Full bales | 1″ – 1.75″ | Nets: Vary from $42- $232 Large Bale Net – 4′ = $181, 5′ = $243, 6′ = $288 | Outdoor pasture | USA |
| Ezehay | Frame + net combo | 1″ or 2″ | £199.99 | Stables, pens, practicality | UK |
| Shires Haylage Net | Hanging | 1.75″ | $15.99 | Budget-friendly | Global |
🧠 How to Train a Horse to Use a Hay Net
Introducing a hay net should be a gradual process to avoid frustration:
- Start with a large-hole net (2″–3″) to make access easy.
- Offer both loose hay and hay net side-by-side during the initial transition.
- Monitor behavior closely. Look for signs of chewing, irritation, or disinterest.
- Gradually remove the loose hay as your horse becomes more confident using the net.
- Over time, you can reduce the hole size to slow down consumption.
This approach reduces stress and builds positive associations with the net.
🧺 Tips for Filling Hay Nets Easily
Filling hay nets doesn’t have to be a dreaded chore. Try these methods to make it quicker and cleaner:
- Use a large muck tub or clean trash can: Place the hay net inside the tub and fold the edges over the rim. Drop hay in, then pull the drawstring tight.
- Buy or build a wall-mounted hay net holder: These brackets hold the net open while you fill it, reducing strain and mess.
- Load round bale nets while the bale is still tied: Slip the net over the bale and only cut the twine after the net is fully on.
- Use hay hooks or clip-on spreaders: These tools hold the net wide open, freeing your hands.
- Stuff several nets in advance: If space allows, pre-fill multiple nets to save time during busy days.
🧹 Care and Maintenance
- Daily/Weekly:
- Inspect for holes or frayed areas.
- Shake out debris or dust.
- Monthly:
- Wash in a large bin or with a pressure hose. Use mild soap if needed.
- Dry thoroughly to avoid mold.
- Storage:
- Store clean and dry when not in use.
Durability Tips:
- Knotless nets (e.g., Hay Pillow, Ezehay) often last 3–5+ years with light to moderate use.
- Knotted polyethylene nets (e.g., Hay Chix) may last 2–6 years, particularly when used outdoors.
User reviews suggest Ezehay, Hay Pillow, and Hay Chix are among the most long-lasting and user-friendly options available.
✔️ Benefits of Using Hay Nets
- Slows down consumption to mimic natural grazing (12–18 hours/day).
- Reduces waste by preventing hay from being trampled or soiled.
- Supports gut health by maintaining forage flow and minimizing ulcer risk.
- Helps with weight management, especially in easy keepers or metabolic horses.
- Mental stimulation: encourages movement and problem-solving, especially if you rotate the nets.
Rotating net locations and changing heights activates foraging instincts, prevents boredom, and can increase locomotion, notes a 2022 study by Ellis et al. on equine enrichment behavior.
⚠️ Disadvantages and Safety Concerns
Disadvantages (Context-Specific)
- When hung too high, hay nets can:
- Alter natural neck posture
- Increase dust inhalation risk
- Cause back and jaw strain over time
However, ground-level nets like the Hay Pillow or those inside covered feeders eliminate these issues by encouraging natural head-down posture.
Safety Concerns
- Shod horses: Never use loose or ground-placed nets without protective enclosures. Shoes can catch and cause serious injury.
- Solutions: Use devices like the OptiMizer or Ezehay that shield hooves from netting.
- Frustration with small holes can lead to net chewing or aggression. Begin with large holes and gradually reduce.
🤔 Frequently Asked Questions
How long do hay nets last?
It depends on quality and use. Low-cost nets might only last a few months. High-end nets from brands like Hay Chix or Ezehay can last multiple years.
Which is better, knotted or knotless?
Knotted: Tough and good for outdoor or soaking applications.
Knotless: Soft and better for horses with sensitive mouths.
Can I use hay nets for shod horses?
Only if the net is securely hung outside hoof range or enclosed in a protective feeder like the OptiMizer, not loose on the ground.
How do I train my horse to use a hay net?
Start with large-hole nets. Offer loose hay alongside initially. Observe behavior and transition gradually.
Hay nets are more than just a convenience—they’re a gateway to improved digestion, better behavior, and efficient forage use. By combining smart commercial designs with DIY creativity, you can develop a feeding system that works for your horses and your barn.
Whether you’re managing a sensitive-mouthed senior, an easy keeper, or a herd of energetic grazers, hay nets and their associated feeders offer safe, effective, and welfare-focused solutions for your feeding program.
Such a great, well-rounded guide—thank you! I’ve been using hay nets for a few years now and honestly wouldn’t go back. I started with just the basic hanging nets, but after one too many tangled feet (thankfully no injuries), I switched to ground-level feeders with nets stretched over rubber tubs. Total game changer for safety and cleanup!
I’ve also tried the Hay Pillow for one of my barefoot geldings who gets bored easily—it really helped slow him down and kept him busy longer in the paddock. The mesh sizing tips here are spot-on. I started too small at first and it just made him frustrated. Gradually downsizing was way more successful.
Has anyone tried the OptiMizer or built a DIY box-style feeder with a net? I’m thinking of upgrading and would love to hear how they hold up, especially in wet weather or with multiple horses. Also open to tips for keeping nets from freezing in winter—any advice?