Quick answer

PortionPacer Haynets let you control your horse's fibre intake by choosing the right size and mesh hole. Follow these steps to set up, fill, and hang the haynet for effective slow feeding.

Why slow feeding matters

Slow feeding mimics natural grazing patterns, reducing the risk of colic, ulcers, and boredom. PortionPacer Haynets with a 3cm hole size can extend eating time by up to 30% on average, giving your horse a more natural rhythm.

Choosing the right size and hole

The PortionPacer comes in five sizes from 2kg to 12kg capacity, so match the haynet to your horse's daily ration. The 6cm hole size offers a feed rate similar to ad lib floor feeding, while the 3cm size slows intake significantly. Pick the 3cm option if your horse finishes hay too quickly or needs weight management.

Step-by-step guide to using PortionPacer Haynets

  1. Step 1: Choose the correct haynet size and hole option: Select a PortionPacer size that holds your horse's daily hay ration (2kg–12kg). For slower feeding, pick the 3cm hole size. For a more natural feed rate, choose the 6cm hole size. Common mistake: using a haynet that is too large encourages overfilling and defeats portion control.
  2. Step 2: Fill the haynet evenly: Open the haynet and fill it with the measured amount of hay. Shake the haynet to distribute the hay evenly, preventing clumps that block holes. Checkpoint: ensure the haynet is not overstuffed—hay should move freely inside.
  3. Step 3: Secure the drawstring tightly: Pull the drawstring to close the haynet and tie a secure knot. Double-check that the closure is tight enough to prevent the horse from pulling out large mouthfuls. Common mistake: a loose drawstring allows the horse to access hay too quickly, defeating the slow-feeding purpose.
  4. Step 4: Hang at the correct height: Hang the haynet so the bottom is at the horse's chest height. This encourages a natural head-down eating posture and reduces the risk of foreign material falling into the net. Checkpoint: adjust height if the horse struggles or can lift the net with its nose.
  5. Step 5: Monitor and adjust as needed: Observe your horse during the first few uses. If the horse finishes too quickly, switch to a smaller hole size. If it becomes frustrated, try the 6cm hole or a larger net with more hay. Common mistake: expecting all horses to adapt immediately—some may need a gradual transition.

Product facts

  • PortionPacer™ Haynets: 3cm hole size can extend eating times by up to 30% on average. 6cm hole size has a similar feed rate to ad lib, floor fed hay on average. You can choose the mesh size based on whether you want to slow intake or match natural grazing pace.

    PortionPacer™ Haynets

    PortionPacer™ Haynets

  • PortionPacer™ Haynets: Available in five sizes from 2kg to 12kg capacity. Selecting the right capacity prevents overfilling and ensures the haynet works as intended for your horse's portion.