Which mesh size do I need?

Which Hole Size should I choose?

When choosing a hay net hole size, several factors should be considered. Here is a short summary of the key points for each hole size:

GutzBusta hay net hole sizes: 20mm, 30mm, 40mm and 60mm

20mm Sized Holes:

  • Suitable for "expert level" ponies that can eat from 30mm hay nets at impressive speeds.
  • Recommended for horses or ponies that have mastered eating from a 30mm hay net.
  • Ideal for feeding Lucerne to greedy horses or ponies.

30mm Sized Holes:

  • Great for voracious eaters, such as ponies, minis, and horses familiar with slow feed hay nets.
  • Laminitic horses usually benefit from 30mm sized hay nets.
  • Relieves boredom for stabled horses or as a backup net for when the first hay net empties.
  • Recommended for gutzy horses, ponies, or livestock, especially with palatable hay or slow feed experience.
  • Not commonly used for goats, cows, or sheep, but some may use it with palatable hay.

40mm Sized Holes:

  • The most popular hole size for slow feeding, accepted by over 90% of horses.
  • Suitable for slightly stalky hay, providing hay-saving benefits and increasing hay longevity.

60mm Sized Holes:

  • Ideal for saving on hay without significant restriction.
  • Commonly used with low-sugar or coarse and stalky hay, great for older horses and cattle.
  • Suitable for pregnant broodmares or younger horses where slow feeding is unnecessary.
  • Caution: Ensure hoof size is larger than netting size for horse safety.

General Considerations:

  • GutzBusta 40mm holes are a good starting point, with flexibility to go up or down in size.
  • Weather and hay type can influence the suitable hole size.
  • Palatability determines the hole size, with more palatable hay allowing for smaller holes.
  • Horse's health status, weight, and workload should be considered when choosing a hole size.
  • 40mm and 60mm sizes are suitable for saving on wastage, while 30mm slows down eating.
  • Monitor horse's response when introducing a new hay net to avoid over-facing.
  • Different livestock can use various hole sizes, with 40mm being common.
  • Different hole sizes are used throughout the year, for various hays, health conditions, and weight management.
  • Be cautious with shod horses and use appropriate hay rings/feeder to prevent entanglement.
  • If you intend to soak hay in your net, we recommend rinsing the net in cold water prior to first use for a few minutes.