Why is alfalfa hay bad?

Alfalfa hay contains too much calcium and/or magnesium a. The high calcium level causes a high calcium:phosphorus ratio which may contribute to developmental orthopedic disease b. Hi magnesium levels increase the chances of the formation of enteroliths (intestinal stones).

How much does a bag of alfalfa hay cost?

At Conway Feed, alfalfa hay is available for $10-13.50 and Bermuda grass hay for $15. From the hay market, square bales, on average, will cost you between $3 and $10 per bale, but some farmers prefer selling their hay per pound, in which case such a bale will be around 50 pounds.

What is alfalfa hay good for?

Alfalfa is an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals essential for good health, such as calcium, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, and iron. It’s an excellent source of high-quality fiber that produces slow-release energy, which helps maintain weight and promote healthy digestion.

How do you know if alfalfa hay is bad?

Look for Mold Cut open a bale of hay and separate the flakes. Look for the presence of mold in any of the flakes. Moldy hay generally presents as darker areas which are grey or black. If you find mold, refuse the bale – mold indicates that the hay was baled when it was too wet.

Is alfalfa better than grass hay?

Alfalfa has 3 times more calcium then grass hay. The Phosphorus (essential mineral for horses) ratio should be 2:1. The calcium may be higher in Alfalfa, but the Phosphorus is about the same as grass. With higher protein and energy amounts, Alfalfa is an ideal choice for a working ranch horse or performance horse.

How long is alfalfa hay good for?

Storing Hay You can store hay indefinitely if the stack is managed correctly; although, in humid climates, using hay within three years of harvest is ideal. Hay growers need to bale it at correct moisture levels because if it’s baled too damp the hay will generate heat, which leads to molding.

How much alfalfa hay should I feed my horse?

How much alfalfa hay do you feed a 1,200 pound horse and how often? Horses can normally eat 1.5-2% of their body weight in hay, which equates to 18-24 lbs. of hay per day.