How to fill a hay net?

To fill a bag- or pocket-shaped hay net, simply put the hay through the opening at the top of the net.

Using a hay net is truly very easy and practical.

No hatches to open, systems to unhook, or plates to remove. Filling a hay net is therefore a quick and simple task, which makes your life easier and doesn't turn feeding horses into a chore.

Filling a sheet net

For those shaped like a sheet, the question of filling doesn't arise, as they are designed to cover a manger or hay rack: you just need to stretch them over the forage.

What about other models?

Filling pocket and bag hay nets

As their name suggests, these slow-feeding nets take the form of a pocket or bag.
The number of straps and the shape of the opening make the difference.

Common point: they are completely closed and sturdily sewn, with the exception of an opening at the top.
Insert the hay by hand through this top opening.

Above all, avoid using a sharp or cutting tool, such as a pitchfork, to take the hay and fill the bag: the metal tines could damage the textile fibers and tear the net. Filling is done by hand.

How to close the net?

For the bag-shaped hay net, attach it using the straps in the corners, making sure to place the opening at the top.
It is then "closed" and the hay does not fall to the ground.

You can also use a rope to close the opening, or even carabiners.
In that case, prefer a stainless steel carabiner with a safety screw.

For the pocket-shaped one, hang it by placing the opening at the top: the opening will close, just like with a classic bag.

You don't have to do anything else.

Filling a round or square bale net

A round hay bale weighs 200 to 600 kg, so it is not a question here of trying to fill the net with hay.

A round bale net is slipped around the hay bale, a bit like a sock.
The hay bale is placed on the ground (or in a pasture hay feeder), and the net is slipped over it. You go all the way around by rolling the hay bale.

For square bales, it's exactly the same principle.

Is a special tool required?

No, you don't need any tools to fill your hay net.

There is no specific knot, fastener, or system: nothing to unscrew, unlock, or unpin…

Simply open the top of the net and stuff the forage inside.