Using Slow Feed Hay Nets for GoatsUpdated 2 hours ago

Goats are very clever, curious, and determined eaters but they can be incredibly wasteful with hay, pulling it out, trampling it, and picking through only their favourite bits. A slow feed hay net can help manage this, but it’s important to choose the right setup for your goats.

Are hay nets suitable for goats?

Yes! Many of our customers successfully use slow feed hay nets for goats. That said, they’re not a one-size-fits-all solution. Goats are curious, agile, and love to climb, so setup and hole size choice are important to get right.

What hole size should I use?

For goats, we generally recommend:

• 3cm (1 ¼") → Best for very soft, leafy, highly palatable hay
• 4cm (1 ¾") → A great starting point for most setups

The right size will depend on your hay:

• Richer / softer hay → go smaller to slow intake
• Stalky / coarse hay → go larger to avoid frustration

Won’t goats chew through the hay net?

This is a really common question and in most cases, goats don’t actually chew through the netting itself. Goats are primarily interested in accessing the hay, not the net. Once they understand that food comes through the holes, they focus on pulling it out rather than chewing the material, which isn’t appealing to them.

Our hay nets are made from durable materials designed to handle daily use. However, what can happen is:

• Goats may pull, tug, or test the net, especially when first introduced
• If they become frustrated (hole size too small), they’re more likely to pick at it
• Damage is more likely if the net is loose, dragging, or not secured properly

To reduce the risk we recommend to choose a suitable hole size for your hay, ensure the net is secure and well-positioned and introduce the net gradually and monitor early use.

Why use a hay net for goats?

Using a slow feed hay is a great option because it can help reduce hay waste, encourage more consistent eating, slow intake slightly without restricting access, and keep hay contained and off the ground.

Please Note: If your goats have large or outward-facing horns, there’s a risk of them getting caught in any type of netting feeder. In those cases, use caution and consider whether a hay net is suitable for your setup.

Monitoring small hooved animals that may jump on hay nets is recommended. Although we have never had an issue reported, it is advised to watch that small feet/hooves don't become entangled in the netting. For added safety, choose a hole size smaller than your animal’s hoof and position the hay net off the ground where possible. This helps reduce the risk of entanglement during feeding.

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 goats, feel free to reach out. We’re always happy to help guide you based on your hay type, setup, and how your goats are currently feeding.

📞 (+61) 0418 282 097

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