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High-quality hay provides most of the nutrients needed for a mature horse. The hay should be cut early and be leafy, green, and free of mold, dust, and foreign matter, such as weeds and stubble. Horses readily consume good hay, rich in energy, protein, minerals, and vitamins.
Well-managed legume-grass hays generally are higher in protein and minerals than are straight grasses under similar management. Plant maturity, weathering, and other hay-making practices affect protein and mineral levels.
Early cut and conditioned hay generally contains more leaves and dries much faster than nonconditioned hay. It also tends to be softer and is therefore more palatable to animals. Leaves are higher in digestibility and feed value, including protein and minerals, than are other plant parts.
Research has dispelled the notion that legume hay causes digestive disorders in horses. Respiratory or digestive disturbances associated with feeding hay are more likely caused by dust and mold than by hay. Straight legume hay or legume-grass mixed hay is a desirable feed if cut early.
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