The Benefits of Feeding Timothy Hay to Horses

September 3, 2025

Timothy hay is one of the most trusted and widely used forages for horses of all breeds, ages, and activity levels. Known for its high fiber content, moderate protein, and naturally low sugar and starch, Timothy hay promotes digestive health, weight management, and overall equine wellness.

In this guide, we’ll break down the nutritional value of Timothy hay, why it’s a favorite among horse owners and veterinarians, and how to choose the right form of Standlee Premium Timothy Grass hay for your horse’s needs.

Why Choose Timothy Hay for Horses?

Timothy hay is a cool-season grass hay that offers a balanced nutritional profile:

• Moderate protein levels for maintaining muscle and condition
• High fiber to support digestive health and gut motility
• Naturally low sugar and starch, ideal for horses prone to metabolic issues

This makes Timothy hay an excellent choice for:

• Easy keepers who maintain weight easily
• Horses in light to moderate work
• Senior horses with lower calorie requirements
• Horses sensitive to high-sugar forages or with conditions like insulin resistance or Equine Metabolic Syndrome

Key Benefits of Timothy Hay

Supports Digestive Health

The high-fiber content of Timothy hay helps maintain a healthy digestive tract by keeping feed moving steadily through the gut. Horses are natural grazers, and long-stem fiber in Timothy hay mimics this behavior, reducing the risk of ulcers and digestive upset.

Helps Maintain Healthy Weight

Timothy hay is filling without being overly caloric, making it a smart option for horses that need weight control. Its moderate energy content supports satiety, encourages chewing, and helps manage metabolic conditions.

Gentle Nutrition for Special Needs Horses

With its lower sugar content and balanced nutrients, Timothy hay is ideal for:

• Horses recovering from illness or surgery
• Senior horses with reduced activity or dental challenges
• Horses needing a low-NSC (non-structural carbohydrate) forage

Choosing the Best Timothy Hay Format

Standlee Timothy Grass hay products come in several convenient forms to match your horse’s diet and management needs. Click each to learn more or shop now:

Timothy Grass Pellets

Consistent nutrition in every scoop. Ideal for picky eaters or horses with dental challenges. Can be soaked for easier chewing and added hydration.

Timothy Chopped

Soft, chopped forage perfect for older horses, picky eaters, or those needing an easy-to-chew option. Great for mixing with other feeds and reducing waste.

Alfalfa/Timothy Cubes

A blend of gentle Timothy and higher-protein Alfalfa for horses needing added calories or condition support. Dense and easy to store; soak for safety and hydration.

Compressed Timothy Bales

Long-stem fiber for grazing-like behavior and digestive health. Convenient to transport and easy to inspect for freshness. Also available as Timothy/Orchard blends.

Feeding and Preparation Tips

• Feed by weight, not by volume – a “flake” can vary in weight.
• Transition gradually over 7–10 days to avoid digestive upset.
• Soak pellets or cubes for senior horses, hydration support, or fast eaters.
• Consult a veterinarian or equine nutritionist before making significant dietary changes.

Why Trust Standlee Timothy Hay?

Standlee products are grown in nutrient-rich volcanic soil in southern Idaho and sun-cured for maximum quality. Every batch is tested for nutrient consistency, low dust, and freshness. Whether you choose hay pellets, cubes, chopped, or bales, you’ll get:

• Consistent, high-quality nutrition
• No preservatives or dyes
• Trusted by horse owners, trainers, and veterinarians nationwide