Slow-feeding dispensers for horses: Who, how and why?

Slow-feeders are feed dispensers designed to mechanically slow feed intake. As such, they are a promising tool for improving the welfare of horses by meeting their behavioural and physiological feeding needs while controlling the risk of obesity. However, there is limited knowledge regarding the current use of slow-feeders by horse owners and the profile of horses using such feeders. The objective of this questionnaire-based study was to evaluate the slow-feeding practices among horse owners and yard operators in some French-speaking European countries (Belgium, France and Switzerland). We received 1,283 replies, revealing that the population of horses fed with slow-feeders differs from the general population of ridden horses in several aspects, such as age, training, and housing. This information is valuable for ensuring representative sampling in future studies. Regarding the type of slow-feeder used, more than 85% of the respondents reported using hay nets, with hay nets covering the hay in the hayrack or surrounding a bale of hay being particularly popular. The main reasons for using slow-feeders were waste management, weight reduction, and increased feeding time for horses. Most respondents did not encounter any issues when using slow-feeders and less than 10% of respondents reported health problems and accidents resulting from the use of slow-feeder. Differences were also found between countries and between operators and owners, indicating that different user profiles have varying requirements for the feeder they use. • Most respondents use hay nets as slow-feeders. • Slow-feeders are usually used for extended periods (need for safe feeders). • Horses using slow-feeders have a peculiar profile (housing, training, age, shoeing). • Suspended and wall-fixed nets are more likely to be associated with problems. • Future studies should consider this information to guide their research.