When it comes to equine nutrition, hay and forage are the foundation of a healthy diet. One of the most popular and nutrient-rich options among horse owners is alfalfa cubes. These compact, easy-to-store cubes are made from chopped and compressed alfalfa hay, offering a convenient and consistent source of high-quality forage.
What Are Alfalfa Cubes?
Alfalfa cubes are made by chopping alfalfa hay into smaller pieces, then compressing them into dense, cube-shaped portions. These cubes are typically 1 to 2 inches in size and can be fed dry or soaked in water, depending on your horse’s needs.
Unlike baled hay, alfalfa cubes offer a uniform composition, reducing the risk of sorting or wastage. They’re especially useful for horses with dental issues, picky eaters, or those who need controlled portions of forage.
Top Benefits of Alfalfa Cubes for Horses
1. High in Protein and Calcium
Alfalfa is naturally rich in digestible protein—ideal for supporting muscle development, growth, and recovery in working or growing horses. It also contains a high amount of calcium, which is essential for strong bones, especially in young or lactating mares.
2. Excellent Energy Source
The cubes provide a great energy boost for performance horses, senior horses that need to maintain weight, or those recovering from illness. Alfalfa is highly digestible and palatable, making it a preferred energy source over grain for many horses.
3. Dust-Free and Consistent Quality
Unlike traditional hay, alfalfa cubes are generally dust-free, making them a better option for horses with respiratory issues such as heaves or allergies. The consistency in quality also ensures your horse is getting the same nutrition in every bite.
4. Less Waste, More Efficiency
Feeding alfalfa cubes results in less wastage compared to loose hay. Horses are less likely to toss cubes around or let them spoil in their stalls, making cubes a more cost-effective and cleaner feeding option.
5. Convenient Storage and Portability
No need for large hay storage spaces—alfalfa cubes are compact and easy to store in bins or sealed bags. This makes them ideal for travel, boarding, or events where transporting loose hay is impractical.
How to Feed Alfalfa Cubes to Horses
While alfalfa cubes are beneficial, it’s important to feed them properly to avoid digestive upset and ensure your horse gets the most from them.
1. Start Slowly
When introducing alfalfa cubes to your horse's diet, do so gradually over 7–10 days. Sudden dietary changes can cause colic or diarrhea.
2. Soak for Safety
While some horses can safely chew dry cubes, it’s recommended to soak alfalfa cubes in water—especially for older horses, those with dental issues, or horses prone to choke. Soaking for 15-30 minutes until soft helps ensure safe consumption.
3. Balance With Other Forage
Alfalfa cubes are nutrient-dense, so they shouldn’t replace all your horse’s forage unless recommended by a vet or nutritionist. They’re often best used to supplement grass hay or mixed forages.
4. Watch Protein and Calcium Levels
Because alfalfa is high in protein and calcium, it’s not ideal for all horses. Easy keepers, insulin-resistant horses, or those with kidney issues may require lower-protein forages like timothy or orchard grass.
5. Feed by Weight, Not Volume
Always measure cubes by weight rather than volume to avoid overfeeding. On average, one flake of hay equals approximately 5–6 lbs of alfalfa cubes (dry weight). Adjust according to your horse’s weight, activity level, and other dietary inputs.
Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Eat Alfalfa Cubes?
Ideal For:
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Performance horses needing more energy and muscle support
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Senior horses with dental issues or trouble chewing hay
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Growing foals and lactating mares needing high calcium and protein
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Underweight horses that require a calorie-dense supplement
Not Ideal For:
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Overweight horses or easy keepers
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Horses with Cushing’s Disease or insulin resistance
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Horses prone to bladder stones or hypercalcemia
Always consult with your vet or an equine nutritionist before making significant dietary changes.
Where to Buy High-Quality Alfalfa Cubes
At Cook Feed & Outdoor, we carry premium brands of alfalfa cubes trusted by horse owners across the country. Our feed experts can help you choose the right product based on your horse’s age, activity level, and nutritional needs.
What to Look for in Alfalfa Cubes:
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Pure alfalfa with no fillers
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Low moisture content (less chance of mold)
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No added sugars or artificial binders
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Reputable manufacturers like Standlee, Manna Pro, or Triple Crown
We also offer bulk purchase options and convenient local delivery services to make feeding your horse easier than ever.
Common FAQs About Alfalfa Cubes
1. Can I feed alfalfa cubes as the only forage source?
Yes, but only under guidance. Horses need around 1.5% to 2% of their body weight in forage daily, and cubes can meet this requirement. However, variety and digestive health are often better supported with mixed forages.
2. Are soaked alfalfa cubes okay to feed in the winter?
Absolutely! Use warm water to soak the cubes in colder months. This can also encourage horses to drink more water, reducing the risk of impaction colic.
3. How long do soaked cubes last?
Once soaked, feed them within 2–4 hours, especially in warmer temperatures. Leftovers can ferment quickly and may become unsafe.