Getting a forage analysis done: step by step

Why a forage analysis is worth the effort

Hay from the same field can vary considerably between cuts. First-cut hay contains on average 8–10% crude protein, while second cut sometimes reaches 14% or more. Too much protein puts strain on the kidneys and increases the risk of laminitis in insulin-sensitive horses. Too little energy and the horse loses condition, even if you are providing enough kilograms. An analysis costs between €30 and €75 per sample, depending on the laboratory and the number of parameters. That is a fraction of what you spend annually on concentrates and supplements that you may be giving unnecessarily.

What does a standard analysis measure?

A basic package covers the most important nutritional values. For a more complete picture, choose an extended package that also includes minerals.

• Dry matter (DM%) — determines the actual amount of feed per kilogram of product
• Crude protein (CP) — essential for muscle development and recovery
• Crude fibre and NDF/ADF — indication of digestibility and gut fill
• Starch and sugars (WSC/ESC) — crucial for insulin-sensitive and PPID horses
• VEM or NEL — energy value expressed per kilogram of dry matter
• Minerals (calcium, phosphorus, magnesium) — optional but valuable

How to take a representative sample

Good sampling is the foundation of a reliable result. One handful from one bale is not representative of an entire batch.

• Take samples from at least 10 different bales or points within the batch
• Use a clean, dry stainless steel or plastic corer for solid bales
• With loose hay, always pull a handful from the centre of the bale
• Mix all sub-samples in a clean bucket and take approximately 500 grams from this
• Put the final sample in a zip-lock bag, remove the air and send it chilled

Which laboratory do you choose?

In the Netherlands you can go to Eurofins Agro, Blgg AgroXpertus and several regional feed labs. Compare not only the price, but also the turnaround time (usually 3–7 working days) and whether they offer horse-specific parameters. Some labs automatically provide results in horse norms (CVB or NRC 2007), which makes translating them into a ration considerably easier. Ask specifically for the 'horse package' or 'forage horse'; a dairy cattle analysis sometimes lacks parameters such as ESC that are critical for horses.

Results received: what now?

A result full of abbreviations and tables can be overwhelming. Upload the figures to your horse profile in EquiSight and put your question to EquiCoach. The intelligence compares the values with your horse's requirements based on weight, age, workload and health status, and provides concrete advice on additional minerals to feed or on reducing concentrates. Also note the batch date and supplier, so that with a new delivery you can immediately compare whether the quality has remained consistent.

How often do you repeat the analysis?

Schedule the analysis with every new batch of forage, or at least twice a year if you buy from the same supplier. Use the calendar in EquiSight to set a reminder for the next sampling. If you have a horse with a metabolic condition such as EMS or PPID, a twice-yearly analysis is a standard routine — not a one-off project. Over the years you will build up a database that shows how nutritional values vary by season and cut, valuable information for your vet or nutritional adviser.