HAY THERE!

We carry 3 different basic types of hay: Grass, Legume and Grain.

Grass hays like our Timothy have a high fiber content and are low in protein and calcium. It is one of the most common hays fed to horses. Grass hays should be the main component in rabbit, chinchilla and guinea pig diets.   The seed heads contain protein and the stems are an important source of  roughage. Orchard grass and Bermuda grass are quite similar to Timothy, only they have slightly lower protein and fiber content.  

Orchard grass hay has a slightly sweeter smell and a finer texture than Timothy.  If your animal doesn’t care for Timothy hay, you might try Orchard Grass or Bermuda Grass as an alternative.

Legume hays, like Alfalfa, have a higher protein content than grass hays, and should be feed to active, working, lactating, young or convalescing animals that have higher nutritional needs.  It can also be used as a treat for adult animals. Most animals adore the taste of alfalfa hay, however it is too rich to use as the only daily hay for most adult animals.  It should be fed in moderation, or fed as a blend with grass or grain hays. Alfalfa hay should never be fed to animals with urinary tract problems.  Look for alfalfa with a bright color and fine leafy stems.

The grain hay varieties we regulary carry are Oat Hay and Forage Hay. Oat hay is cut before the grain is fully mature and makes for an excellent horse and cattle feed. When choosing grain hay you want to look for hay that still has some color, but isn’t so far along (mature) that the seed heads begin to shell out.

Here at Atascadero Hay and Feed we are very particular about the hay we sell.  We work closely with our growers to ensure we are providing the best possible quality hay for your livestock feeding needs.  Our staff is available to answer any questions you might have about the different varieties of hay we carry, and what hay would be best feed choice for your rabbits, chinchillas, guinea pigs, sheep, goats, horses, cattle, llamas, alpacas and other exotic animals.