If your horse or pony is on a restricted ration, you want to control how much grass or hay he takes in per hour, without him going long without forage. A grazing muzzle limits how much grass he can take per bite; a slow feeder spreads a weighed portion of hay over more hours. For this, this selection includes The Ultimate Muzzle grazing muzzle, small-hole nets and hay pillows from Hay Slow Feeder, hard slow feeders from Vplast and OK Plast, and Excellent Horse Sugar in Balance.
Grazing muzzle: which size?
The Ultimate Muzzle is a grazing muzzle that you attach to the headcollar. The horse can drink and take small bites of grass with it on. The muzzle should fit loosely: two to three fingers should fit between muzzle and head. The sizes according to the manufacturer:
| Size | Circumference |
|---|---|
| Shetland | 48 cm |
| Pony | 55 cm |
| Cob (also as Zephyr / Short) | 63 cm |
| Full | 67 cm |
| Full XL | 70 cm |
The Zephyr is intended for ponies on whom a standard muzzle sits too high on the head. Use the muzzle on a headcollar that breaks away if the horse gets caught on something, and do not leave it on day and night.
Spreading hay over the day
In the stable or paddock, a slow feeder works well. The haynets with 45 mm holes come in 2.5, 5 and 10 kilo and as a net for a round bale; the Hay Pillow and the Fun & Flex ball lie on the ground. Weigh out the daily portion: that way you know exactly how much your horse gets, even if he takes longer over it.
Complementary feed
Excellent Horse Sugar in Balance is a complementary feed with a blend of herbs that you mix into the feed. How much to give is stated on the label; the manufacturer advises against use during pregnancy and lactation. A supplement does not replace a balanced ration.
Points to note
A horse on a restricted ration must keep getting forage regularly; a slow feeder or muzzle is meant to slow eating down, not to stop it. If you are worried about your horse's weight or health, consult your vet about the ration.
See also: all slow feeders, haynets in other hole sizes, headcollars, supplements and everything for your horse.
Frequently asked questions
Can a horse drink with a grazing muzzle on?
Yes, the muzzle has an opening through which the horse can drink and take small bites of grass. Do check at first that your horse really drinks with it on.
How long can a grazing muzzle stay on?
That depends on your horse and the amount of grass. Do not leave it on day and night, and if in doubt consult your vet.
Which hole size do I choose for a horse on a restricted ration?
The nets with 45 mm holes slow eating down the most. Build up use gradually, so your horse does not become frustrated.