Overview: Struggling with picky livestock? If your animals are turning their noses up at hay, there’s a reason! Discover the top 10 common causes of hay rejection and how to fix them to keep your herd happy and healthy. Read on!
There’s nothing more frustrating than unloading a fresh batch of hay — only to find your livestock won’t touch it. Whether you’re feeding cattle, horses, or goats, they can be surprisingly picky. But animals don’t refuse hay without a reason. If your herd or stable is rejecting their feed, it’s time to take a closer look at the source of the problem.
Here are the top 10 reasons animals reject hay and what you can do about it.
1. Mold or Dust Contamination
If hay is moldy or excessively dusty, animals won’t eat it — and for good reason. Moldy hay can cause respiratory issues and even poisoning in livestock.
Fix It: Store hay in a dry, well-ventilated area, and check for white or gray mold before feeding. Shake out dusty hay or use a hay steamer.
>> Related Reading: Why Does Hay Get Dusty And What Causes It?
2. Poor Hay Quality
Not all hay is created equal. If your animals are used to high-quality Timothy, Orchard, or Alfalfa and you suddenly switch to lower-grade hay, they may reject it.
Fix It: Stick with a consistent, high-quality source. All Around Ag provides premium hay, ensuring your animals get the best.
3. Wrong Hay Type for the Animal
Cattle thrive on cow hay or alfalfa, while horses prefer Timothy or Orchard Grass. Goats? They do best with a mix of grass. If the hay doesn’t match their nutritional needs, they’ll avoid it.
Fix It: Choose the right hay for the right animal. Consult your supplier if you’re unsure.
Here’s a quick guide on >> 3 Tips for Choosing the Right Hay for Your Small Animal
4. Hay is Too Stemmy or Too Fine
Horses dislike coarse, stemmy hay, while cows will avoid overly fine hay that lacks substance.
Fix It: Look for hay with a balanced leaf-to-stem ratio, ensuring it’s palatable for your animals.
5. Hay Was Baled Too Wet or Too Dry
Hay that’s too wet can ferment, causing digestive issues, while overly dry hay loses nutrients and becomes brittle.
Fix It: Buy from a trusted supplier who properly bales and stores hay.
6. Presence of Weeds or Foreign Objects
Animals instinctively avoid hay with toxic weeds, excessive dirt, or even baling twine.
Fix It: Inspect each bale before feeding. Choose weed-free, clean hay for optimal safety.
7. Off-Putting Smell or Taste
Hay can absorb strong odors from diesel fumes, chemicals, or poor storage conditions. If it smells off, your animals will steer clear.
Fix It: Store hay away from fuel and chemicals. Fresh hay should smell sweet, not musty or sour.
8. Lack of Nutrients
If hay is over-mature when cut, it loses nutritional value, making it unappetizing. Animals know when their food lacks energy.
Fix It: Choose hay harvested at peak maturity for maximum nutrients and better digestibility.
9. Too Many Changes in Feed
Frequent hay switches can upset your livestock’s digestive system. Animals get used to a certain texture and taste, and sudden changes can lead to rejection.
Fix It: Transition gradually between hay types over 7–10 days to help animals adjust.
10. Your Animals Just Aren’t Hungry
Overfeeding grain or supplements can lead to hay rejection. If your livestock have unlimited access to other feeds, they might not be interested in hay.
Fix It: Balance their diet, ensuring hay remains a primary source of roughage and nutrients.
Final Thoughts
If your animals are turning their noses up at hay, don’t ignore the warning signs. Hay rejection is often tied to quality, storage, or feeding practices. By choosing high-quality hay from a trusted supplier like All Around Ag, you can keep your livestock healthy, happy, and well-fed.
Need top-tier hay that animals love?
We’ve got the best selection in Laramie County, WY, and Northern Colorado — from Timothy Grass to Alfalfa and Cow Hay. Get in touch today!