In The Pasture
Reducing Feed Waste: How a Quality Hay Feeder Can Save You Money
For horse owners, livestock caretakers and other professionals in the agricultural industry, feed waste is a constant concern. Every bit of hay that ends up on the ground instead of in your animals’ mouths is money lost. A quality hay feeder is one of the simplest and most effective investments you can make to minimize waste and maximize savings. At Colonial Corrals, we design our hay feeders with durability, efficiency and your animals’ well-being in mind, ensuring you get the most value from every bale.
The Cost of Hay Waste
Hay waste can add up quickly. When animals feed directly from loose piles, they tend to scatter and trample the hay, rendering it inedible. Wet, dirty, or moldy hay isn’t just a waste of money – it can also pose health risks to your animals. One study by the University of Minnesota Extension suggests that up to 57% of hay can go to waste without a proper feeding system in place.
How a Quality Hay Feeder Helps
A well-designed hay feeder significantly reduces the amount of hay that gets lost, soiled or left behind. Here’s how:
- Elevates Hay Off the Ground – Keeping hay contained prevents it from being mixed with mud, manure or bedding.
- Reduces Overconsumption and Spoilage – A controlled feeding design allows animals to eat at a steady pace, preventing overeating and ensuring the hay remains clean and dry.
- Minimizes Hay Scatter – Open feeding encourages animals to pull apart and toss hay, but a feeder with barriers or slow-feed options helps keep hay contained.
Choosing the Right Hay Feeder
Not all hay feeders are created equal. At Colonial Corrals, we manufacture feeders using American 14-gauge, 1-5/8” tubular steel, ensuring they withstand the demands of daily use. Plus, we stand behind our products with a 5-year workmanship warranty. Our designs prioritize safety, durability and efficiency, so you can count on long-term savings.
Some of our most popular options include:
- Round Bale Hay Feeders – Ideal for large groups of horses or cattle, designed to limit trampling and encourage efficient feeding.
- Slow-Feed Hay Racks – Encourage natural grazing behavior while controlling intake and reducing waste.
- Portable Hay Feeders – Perfect for rotational grazing or feeding in multiple locations, offering flexibility without compromising efficiency.
Long-Term Savings and Benefits
Investing in a quality hay feeder doesn’t just save you money on wasted hay – it also promotes healthier animals, reduces cleanup time and extends the life of your hay supply. Over time, these savings can offset the initial cost of a feeder, making it a smart investment for any livestock owner.
Reduce Waste, Save Money, and Keep Your Herd Healthy
At Colonial Corrals, we take pride in building durable, American-made hay feeders that help you cut costs and keep your animals well-fed. Whether you need a feeder for horses, cattle or other livestock, our expert team can help you find the right fit for your operation.
Ready to make the switch? Check out the complete line of Colonial Corral products or contact us to get started today.
