Bahia grass hay for allergic horse?? - The Horse Forum Green hay usually indicates that it was harvested at the right stage, while light yellow hay is typically sun bleached and has little or no carotene and vitamin A. This is especially true for horses with high energy requirements or those with specific dietary needs. Alfalfe hay It has more protein and fiber in comparison to grass hay. Hoffman said there are a few grasses to avoid in hay or forage if you are feeding horses. Additionally, be cautious when using herbicides near Bahia grass to avoid damaging the crop. Red clover can cause excessive salivation in horses. But is Bahia hay good for horses? However, excessive rain can wash away nutrients from hay, causing it to turn brown or dark green. Those two types are similar to oat hay, but are lower in protein and potassium than their counterparts. The early cutting is generally more flavorful than later cuttings and will have more grass mixed in. It is important to note that all of the plots were fertilized equally with phosphorous and potassium, at a soil pH of 6.0, so the yield in the 0 N, or control plots, were only limited by the lack of nitrogen. Later-cut hays are softer and finer, and are not the best choice for growing horses. The color of the hay is another helpful indicator of its nutritional value. It is also suitable for pregnant mares, young horses, performance horses, and horses with suppressed immune systems. The amount of protein in hay is dependent on the harvest date and type of hay. What is a disadvantage of bahiagrass? The type of Bahia you choose will depend on your specific growing conditions, as well as the climate of your area. For horses in training and back yard horses, Bermuda hay, in combination with alfalfa, will promote their optimal health. When it is more than 20% of its diet, alfalfa will cause your horse to produce more urine, resulting in a more strained kidney. Yet customers rarely ask for the analysis.. Comparison to Bermuda Grass Bahiagrass and bermudagrass are two widely cultivated warm-season perennial grasses in the southeastern United States, known for their adaptability and suitability as forage for horses and other livestock. Monitor the soil moisture levels regularly and water the grass when needed. For starters, orchard grass is easier to digest. It is the moisture or dry matter content of the sample. For horses with high protein requirements, Bahia hay alone may not meet their nutritional needs. In conclusion, Bahia hay is a highly beneficial forage choice for horses due to its nutritional value, low sugar content, digestive health benefits, and environmental sustainability. Nutritional Value of Bahia Hay for Equine Diet Cool-season grasses include orchard grass, timothy, tall fescue, reed canary grass, bromegrass and prairie grass. F. flaboy-Well-known member. Contents hide 1 What is Bahia Hay? If you buy by the ton, its not a major expense and you dont want to get charged twice for the same hay. This chemical can cause reproductive problems in mares, as well as thickened placentas. Blister beetles are another problem with wet hay. Additionally, incorporating legumes or overseeding with cool-season forage species like annual ryegrass can help extend the grazing season and enhance overall forage quality. This factor is more likely that this is the source of digestive upset, rather than a specific forage species. This type of hay is high in protein and fiber, but is susceptible to fungus and may cause excess salivation. timothy, bromegrass, bluegrass, and orchardgrass) typically have a higher nutritive value compared to warm season grasses (WSG; i.e. Is Bahia Hay Good For Horses? Support Wild Muscle tremors, elevated heart rate, convulsions, and difficulty swallowing are common signs of snakeroot poisoning. A good rule of thumb is to avoid baling hay with more than 20% moisture content. Some hays can cause a variety of health problems in horses, so its best to seek the advice of a veterinarian if you arent sure what type to buy. Good hay should be clean and fresh-cut, with a pleasant fragrance. The ideal hay for horses is one that meets their specific needs and provides essential nutrients for optimal health and performance. Conducting a hay analysis or consulting with an equine nutritionist can help you determine if Bahia hay is suitable for your horses specific needs. There are many forage species available to horse producers. Good horse hay contains about 12-20% crude protein, with grass hays (such as Coastal and Jiggs) at the lower end of the range and legume (such as alfalfa and peanut) and annual forage hays at the upper end. That said, it is still an excellent choice for horse feed, especially if supplemented with appropriate minerals and vitamins. Stay up-to-date on the latest news about your horse's health with FREE newsletters from TheHorse.com. It is well-adapted to a variety of soil types and can thrive in areas with a soil pH ranging from 5.5 to 6.5. Timothy only requires two cuttings per year, and it takes a ridiculous amount of water to grow each. Petnet SmartFeeder Automatic Pet Feeder Review, Best Automatic Cat Feeder for Single and Multi-Cat Homes, 10 Surprising Facts about Tortoiseshell Cats, horse is different from the one you feed to your dog. Alfalfa is a grain legume and alfalfa has a thicker stem. Warm-season grass hays include bahia grass and Bermuda grass. It should not smell moldy or smell like its been sitting out in the sun too long. Knowing the optimal time to harvest Bahia hay is essential to ensure maximum nutritional value and palatability. Forage options for horses | UGA Forage Extension Team It is a legume and contains high levels of calcium and protein. Compared to silage, bahia hay has a significantly lower VDMI than clamp silage. An inexpensive hay analysis will tell you the level of crude protein, total digestible nutrients, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and potassium in the hay. Tifton 9 Bahia Grass is considered a very durable pasture grass for horses. Once established, it can withstand heavier grazing pressure than can the other warm-season perennial grasses in common use such as bermudagrass. Look for any mold, dust, or other contaminants. Read more, Known in the industry as fake tails, these pieces, just like the best hairpieces for humans, are made from real hair and braided into existing locks to add length and volume. Although both grasses share some similarities, they also exhibit distinct characteristics, which can impact their nutritional content, cultivation practices, and overall performance. The Safest Hay for Laminitis-Prone Horses An equine nutritionist offers advice on the best hay to feed a horse who is at risk of developing laminitis. Most people want 40% alfalfa 60% grass, or 60% alfalfa 40% grass. Taxes and shipping calculated at checkout. Bahiagrass can also tolerate being grazed more severely than bermudagrass, a frequent incident with horses. From soil preparation to storage, paying attention to these key steps will ensure that your horses receive the nutritious and palatable forage they need. 11 Best Hay Types for Horses - Deep Hollow Ranch The Horsesexperts answer your questions during a monthly live audio event. This is due to elevated levels of insulin, which is produced in response to cooler nighttime temperatures. However, early-maturity hay will satisfy your horses needs quickly and will require less. Oat hay has thick tougher stalks that some horses will not eat. Start your free account today! Whether bahia hay is a good choice for your horse depends on how it is stored. Keep a close eye on your horses hay intake when incorporating Bahia hay into their feeding routine. Depending on your horses diet, you might want to choose a more nutrient-dense grass. For instance, Bahia hay is higher in protein and fewer carbohydrates than Bermuda grass. Regular mowing can help suppress weed growth and prevent them from going to seed. You can choose either of the two based on your horses needs and preferences. It also reduces colic risk. The grass is medium green in color, and grows quickly in average rainfall. Which grass hay is not recommended for horses? The price of a test is around $20 for a basic analysis. // setTimeout(function () { Hays nutrient content and palatability also depend on the stage of maturation. Endophytes are fungi that can produce toxins, causing health issues in horses if ingested. Bermuda grass also becomes harder to digest as it matures. It may also be insufficient for hard-keeping or growing horses, or for pregnant mares. Oat hay is tough and high in nitrates. Which is better for your horse? Bahiagrass Pasture Fertilization - Is it Worth the Money? While both Timothy and orchard grass hay contain the same nutrients, orchard grass has a higher protein content and has a higher calorie count. For more information about cultivating bahia, we recommend you contact your local extension agent or land grant university. Is Bermuda or Bahia grass better for horses? While Bahia hay offers several benefits for horse digestion and gut health, there are some potential challenges and considerations to keep in mind. High-quality grass hays, such as timothy, orchard grass, or bermudagrass, are commonly favored for their balanced nutrition and palatability. I'm not sure if they will eat it baled unless they are starving. Although there is no known cure for this fungus, grazing management is the only way to prevent toxicity from developing. In conclusion, Bahia hay can be a good option for feeding horses due to its nutritional value and palatability. Decide if GMO (genetically modified organism) alfalfa is a concern or not. Nutritional Value of Hay This invasive plant can be fatal if consumed by an adult horse. You dont have to fertilize bahiagrass pastures, but there are consequences if you dont adjust your stocking rate. Timothy hay is starchy and has lower sugar than alfalfa. For horses that are used to consuming hay that is less toxic, a more suitable choice would be Perennial ryegrass. Regularly check Bahia hay for mold, dust, and signs of spoilage to avoid feeding inferior-quality hay to horses. July 25, 2019 Equus Q: What type of hay should I feed my horse? Since bahiagrass has predominantly low-growing, dense growth, it is an excellent species for use in grazing. Allow the cut grass to dry in the field until it reaches the desired moisture level for baling, typically around 15-20%. Can Horses Eat Tifton 85 Hay? - Great American Adventures Best Answer Copy Bahia hay, provided it is free of weeds and not too stemmy is an excellent grass hay for horses. However, many sources of these plants can be expensive and hard to find in certain areas of the world. Veterinarians and nutritionists often argue about which formula is the most accurate way to calculate NSC content. Storing Bahia hay in a dry, well-ventilated area will preserve its quality. It is recommended to provide horses with a combination of quality forages, such as a mix of Bahia hay and other grass hays, to ensure a well-rounded diet. In conclusion, Bahia hay is a highly beneficial forage choice for horses due to its nutritional value, low sugar content, digestive health benefits, and environmental sustainability. Bahia hays high fiber content promotes efficient digestion in horses. It can be used in a variety of ways, such as in salads, soups, and stews, or as a substitute for other grasses. While green hay usually indicates good curing conditions, it may not have the same nutritional value as brown hay. These bacteria play a vital role in maintaining a healthy gut microbiome, which is essential for overall digestive health. It can be expensive and is best blended with legumes to provide more nutrition to the horses. console.log('pumInit'); Additionally, Bahia hay has a low sugar content, making it suitable for horses with metabolic conditions such as insulin resistance or Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS). Bahia hay is a popular choice among horse owners and farmers for feeding horses. Consider its nutritional profile and your horses individual needs when determining if Bahia grass makes good hay for your equine companions. This means that the harvesting stage has a major influence on hays quality for horses. But is Bahia hay good for horses? This characteristic makes bahia grass hay an attractive option for insulin-resistant or overweight horses, as well as equines prone to laminitis. It will also cost less. Alfalfa hay is generally better for active horses. To know the digestible energy content, use Equi-analytical Laboratories. The N fertilization level is a decision the manager has to make. One way to make sure the hay is a good choice for your horse is to have a sample of it tested. Some horses may be picky eaters and may initially show resistance to the new hay. So, based on the data from this classic study, a $104 investment provided 3.4 tons more feed per pair over the entire growing season for a unit cost of $31/ton. Ultimately, the very best hay for horses is one that aligns with their individual needs, supports their overall health, and offers excellent digestibility and palatability. You can determine whether it is high in moisture content by comparing it to the smell of fresh cut hay. The first questions are, Should I fertilize? and, Is it worth the money? The next question is, How much fertilizer do I need? And generally, the final question, What should I ask my supplier for? When you ask these questions, however, be ready for the return question, Have you taken a soil test?. Combining Bahia hay with other forage types can enhance the overall nutritional value of the diet. They may also decrease the need for grain supplements. You should ask the supplier for a quote before buying the hay. In addition to your vets recommendation, you should stick with a reputable hay producer for the best quality and freshness. console.log('pumOpen prevented'); When choosing a hay for your horse, make sure to choose a quality one that is free of mould or insect infestation. A balanced gut microbiome helps improve nutrient absorption, immune function, and can prevent the growth of harmful bacteria in the gut. Besides being bright, good hay should be clean and fresh, and should contain no mold or other contaminants. The soluble carbohydrates and protein of bermudagrass herbage are low and unlikely to cause nutritional problems in horses. To choose hay for horses, consult with your veterinarian or local equine nutritionist. Oat Hay Analysis (average) Crude Protein - 8.0% - 10.0%. Bahia hay is a popular type of forage that is commonly fed to horses. Known for its exceptional nutritional value, Bahia hay is rich in essential nutrients like protein, fiber, and minerals, making it an excellent source of high-quality forage for horses. Its drought tolerance and adaptability to poor soil make it a popular choice in warm climates. Match hay to horses with special needs. Implement an integrated weed management program that includes cultural, mechanical, and chemical control methods. height. Every employee is committed to customer service and consumer education to provide the best results possible for you and your horse. Although orchard grass is less expensive than other grass hays, its still not as nutrient sensitive. Description of Bahia Grass and Its Characteristics, Varieties of Bahia Hay Commonly Available, Climate and Growing Conditions Suitable for Bahia Grass, Evaluating Bahia Hays Protein Content and Amino Acid Profile, Assessing Fiber and Energy Content in Bahia Hay, Vitamins and Minerals Present in Bahia Hay, Advantages of Feeding Bahia Hay to Horses, High Fiber Content and Its Benefits for Digestion, Low Nonstructural Carbohydrate (NSC) Levels and Its Impact on Insulin Resistance, Cost-Effectiveness and Availability of Bahia Hay, Potential Limitations of Bahia Hay for Horses, Lower Protein Content Compared to Other Hay Types, Palatability and Preferences of Some Horses, Managing Potential Toxicity Concerns (e.g., Paspalum dilatatum), Feeding Bahia Hay to Growing Horses and Pregnant Mares, Special Considerations for Performance and Working Horses, Balancing Bahia Hay with Other Forage Options, Supplementing Bahia Hay with Concentrates and Minerals, Feeding Tips and Considerations for Optimal Nutrition, Proper Hay Storage Practices to Prevent Spoilage, Reducing Mold and Dust Exposure for Respiratory Health, Identifying Potential Health Concerns Associated with Bahia Hay, Recognizing Signs of Allergies or Adverse Reactions, Comparing Bahia Hay to Other Forage Options, Nutritional Comparison with Other Common Hay Types, Bahia Hay vs. Alfalfa Hay: Considerations for Specific Needs, Matching Forage Choices to Individual Horse Requirements. Alfalfa is a full-season crop, said Dr. Dan Putnam, University of California Extension Specialist and Forage Specialist. You can even get some varieties that are low in sugar and are safe for your horse to eat. Bahia is a grass that tolerates hot temperatures and can often be found in the Southeast of the US. It is derived from the Bahia grass, a warm-season perennial grass species that is native to South America. So, you may ask, is bahia hay good for your horses? The final question I normally get is, What should I order from my farm supply dealer? This does sometimes get confusing, because recommendations are made in pounds of nutrients per acre, not the total pounds of fertilizer. Basic soil management for forages, or any crop, requires that the soil be maintained in the optimal pH range for the specific target crop to ensure productivity and persistence. Dr. S. Ray Smith, University of Kentucky State Forage Extension Specialist, said, No class of horse needs the really high protein of good alfalfa. Bahiagrass - Generally speaking, bahiagrass is a fan favorite among livestock owners for pasture due to its low input style, meaning it can do quite well with little fertilizer and management (to a point). Choose a location away from direct sunlight and off the ground to avoid moisture absorption. There are some common nutritional issues a horse can have from eating bahia hay. Tifton 85 Grass versus Coastal Bermuda for Horses - VIN
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