Overview: Straw or hay — what’s best for bedding and livestock comfort? Discover the key differences and find the best option for your farm in Wyoming and Northern Colorado. Read more!  

When it comes to keeping your livestock comfortable, choosing the right bedding material is essential. In Laramie County, Wyoming, and Northern Colorado, farmers and ranchers rely on both straw and hay for different purposes, but knowing when to use each can make all the difference.

Whether you’re bedding down cattle for the winter or ensuring your horses have a clean, dry place to rest, let’s break down the differences between straw and hay and which works best for livestock comfort.

What is Straw?   

Straw is the dry stalks of cereal crops like wheat, barley, or oats after the grain has been harvested. It’s hollow, lightweight, and commonly used as bedding for livestock. Because straw has little nutritional value, it’s not ideal for feed but serves well in keeping animals warm and dry.

Why Use Straw for Bedding?   

Absorbs Moisture – While not as absorbent as some materials, straw provides a dry surface for livestock.
Provides Insulation – The hollow stalks trap warmth, making it a great choice for cold Wyoming winters.
Affordable & Readily Available – Straw is often more affordable than hay and is easy to find in bulk.
Clean & Dust-Free – High-quality straw is low in dust, reducing respiratory issues in livestock.

Best Uses for Straw:  

• Horse stalls & run-ins

• Calving barns

• Poultry coops

• Pig pens

• Goat & sheep bedding

>> Related Reading: The Many Uses of Straw: Construction, Bedding & Feed

What is Hay?   

Hay is made from dried grasses or legumes like alfalfa, timothy, or brome and is primarily used as livestock feed. Unlike straw, hay retains its nutrients, making it a key part of a balanced diet for cattle, horses, and other livestock.

Can Hay Be Used as Bedding?   

While hay can technically be used for bedding, it’s not the best option for a few reasons:
More Expensive – Quality hay is valuable as livestock feed, making it impractical for bedding.
Holds Moisture – Hay tends to retain moisture, increasing the risk of mold and bacteria growth.
Attracts Livestock to Eat It – Since hay is meant for consumption, animals may eat their bedding instead of resting on it.

Best Uses for Hay:   

• Feeding cattle, horses, goats, and sheep

• Supplementing winter forage

• Mixing with straw for added insulation in extreme cold

 Straw vs. Hay: What’s the Right Choice for Your Livestock?   

If bedding is your main concern, straw is the clear winner. It keeps stalls and barns dry, provides insulation, and is cost-effective. However, if you need nutritious feed, high-quality hay — like North Park Timothy Grass or Alfalfa Mix — is the way to go.

For ranchers in Wyoming and Northern Colorado, having access to both straw and premium hay ensures your livestock stays healthy, warm, and well-fed through every season.

Looking for top-quality straw bales or hay for sale in Laramie County and beyond? Contact All Around Ag today for reliable, locally sourced options.