Exploring the World of Hay steamers: A Comprehensive Guide
Imagine the tranquil ambiance of your stable on a peaceful morning, with the sun gently rising, and your horses eagerly anticipating their breakfast. You're dedicated to providing them with the best care, and that includes their daily serving of hay. But here's the twist – not all hay is equal, and neither are the methods used to prepare it.
Welcome to the realm of hay steamers, a true game-changer in equine nutrition and respiratory health. Whether you're an experienced equestrian or just beginning your journey in horse care, understanding the intricacies of hay steamers is essential. Why, you might ask? Because the right hay steamer can profoundly impact your horses' well-being.
In this blog, we'll embark on a voyage to explore the captivating world of hay steamers. We'll delve into various brands, uncover their unique features, and demonstrate how they can revolutionize the way you provide nourishment to your equine companions. So, saddle up and join us on this journey as we unveil the secrets of hay steaming and help you find the perfect fit for your stable.
A Glimpse at Different Hay steamer Brands:
Haygain: Renowned for its High Temperature Hay Steamers, Haygain supports respiratory, digestive, and overall horse health. It's the scientifically proven method for significantly reducing irritants and allergens commonly found in forage. Haygain's patented steaming technology also adds moisture to hay, aiding digestion and hydration.
Simply Steam: This effective, user-friendly, and budget-friendly hay steamer brand is based in the heart of the Peak District in Derbyshire.
Hayvape: Offering a unique approach, Hayvape can convert a substantial amount of water into steam in just one hour. This ensures that even the driest and dustiest hay emerges soft, moist, and delectable. It also infuses the aroma and flavor of herbs into the hay as it steams.
Sanderson Hay Steamers: Located in Hampshire, Sanderson Hay Steamers utilize ARPRO, a lightweight material. They employ Pulse Steam Technology™, a powerful system of multiple steam jets coordinated by pre-programmed software and sensors.
Smartsteam: Offering a cost-effective solution, Smartsteam's Hay U steamer is portable and easy to maneuver, making it convenient for use around the yard.
Ascotuk: Recognized as the Horse Equipment Retailer of the Year at the Central England Prestige Awards 2020/2021, Ascotuk manufactures hay steamers to industrial specifications using food-grade materials.
Nuveq: Leading the hay steaming innovation with over a decade of experience, Nuveq employs a purpose-built steam generator and a 360° steaming system to ensure consistent steaming throughout the chest.
There are numerous other brands of hay steamers on the market, depending on which region you are based in. The names mentioned above are reputable companies that offer hay steamers for purchase. However, for those feeling crafty and looking to save, there are DIY options. Many equestrians have learned to build and use homemade steamers, often utilizing the "Wheelie Bin" Method.
What to Consider When Steaming Hay:
Temperature is crucial when effectively steaming hay. Scientific studies have shown that steaming is the most effective way to reduce microbial allergens in hay due to its high heat application. In fact, when compared to soaking, steaming is the only method that significantly reduces both bacterial and mold contamination. Soaking hay, on the other hand, can increase bacterial counts in hay, especially if it sits for an extended period before consumption.
Although steaming reduces mold counts significantly, the clinical benefits of feeding steamed hay versus soaked hay to horses with asthma can vary. Therefore, it's essential to employ additional strategies to reduce allergen exposure and consult a veterinarian for appropriate medical treatments when managing horses with respiratory allergies.
In summary, steaming hay is generally more advantageous than soaking, as it decreases both dust and microbial contamination. Commercially available steamers are safe and easy to use. They vary in capacity and steaming time, typically taking 60 to 90 minutes to heat the hay to at least 100°C/212°F. While instructions for building homemade hay steamers can be found online, they come with safety concerns and associated risks.
If you're seeking further guidance, the Nuveq team is ready to assist you in your quest for the ideal hay steamer.
