Using Slow Feed Hay Nets for CattleUpdated 3 hours ago
Cattle aren't known for their table manners, and when it comes to hay they're quite happy to waste your expensive and precious feed, especially when it's in a round bale or large export bale. A slow feed hay net can help manage this, but it's important to choose the right setup for your herd.
Although there are other variables such as weather, time of year etc, but they were happy to report that putting a GutzBusta Slow Feeder Hay Net on their round bale made the bale last twice as long.
There were no problems with the cattle being caught in the net, it would be advisable to put a steel feeding ring around the outer perimeter and then the round bale with the net on the inside of this ring. This will keep the cattle and their hooves from actually walking on the bale as it gets eaten down.
Customers John and Alison from NSW, Australia tried a GutzBusta Round Bale Net with their cattle and sheep. There were 6 cows and 15 sheep with access and the bale still lasted until day 10. It was unclear if the sheep got a chance though as the cows were primarily around the bale.
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Are hay nets suitable for cattle?
Yes! Many of our customers successfully use slow feed hay nets for cattle, particularly in hobby farm situations where stock numbers are lower.
What hole size should I use?
Despite not having top teeth, many cattle adapt well to smaller hole sizes, we’ve even seen them use 3cm (1 ¼") nets successfully.
- 4cm (1 ¾") → A great starting point for most setups
- 6cm (2 ½") → If your hay is coarse or stalky
- 3cm (1 ¼") → Despite not having top teeth, many cattle adapt well to smaller hole sizes, and we've seen them use this size successfully too
The right size will depend on your hay:
- Richer / softer hay → go smaller to slow intake
- Stalky / coarse hay → go larger to avoid frustration
What about horns and ear tags?
This is an important one to consider with cattle specifically. We do not recommend using hay nets with cattle that have horns, as the netting can become caught or hooked. Similarly, if your cattle or calves have ear tags, there's a risk of the tag rubbing against the netting and getting caught. This can potentially result in the tag being pulled out or the ear being injured.
For this reason, hay nets are generally better suited to hobby farm situations where stock numbers are low, and the benefits (reduced waste, slower feeding, and so on) may outweigh the potential inconvenience of tag loss. Ultimately, it's up to you as the owner to assess whether this product is suitable for your cattle and setup. If you're unsure, feel free to reach out and we can help guide you toward the best option.
Why use a hay net for cattle ?
Using a slow feed hay net is a great option because it can help reduce hay wastage significantly, extend how long a bale lasts, keep hay contained and off the ground, and reduce the amount of trampling and soiling that happens with open bales.
Please Note:
Horns & Ear Tags: We do not recommend using hay nets with livestock that have horns, as netting can become caught or hooked. Similarly, if your cattle or calves have ear tags, there is a risk of them rubbing against the netting and catching a tag. This can potentially result in the tag being pulled out or the ear being injured. Although we have only ever heard of this happening with cattle, there is the probability that this could happen with other livestock such as sheep or goats so we recommend that you monitor your stock and be aware that this is a possibility.
For this reason, hay nets are generally better suited to hobby farm situations where stock numbers are low, and the benefits, (reduced waste, slower feeding, etc.) may outweigh the potential inconvenience of tag loss. Ultimately, it is up to the owner to assess whether this product is suitable for their livestock and setup. If you’re unsure, feel free to reach out and we can help guide you toward the best option.
If you’d like to know more, you can also read our other livestock guides:
→ What Size Hole Suits Your Livestock the Best?
→ Are Slow Feeder Hay Nets Suitable for Livestock?
Need help choosing?
If you’re unsure what will work best for your cattle, feel free to reach out. We’re always happy to help guide you based on your hay type, setup, and how your cattle are currently feeding.
📞 (+61) 0418 282 097