The use of a large stainless steel hay feeder can help you regulate the amount of feed your animals receive each day. This type of feeder can be installed on a slab platform. Use some guidelines to aid with choosing a feeder to purchase and setting it up on your agricultural property.
Feeders
A large hay feeder that is constructed of metal may contain a slide-out loading platform. Spindles or cage-like structures are featured with this type of unit. A series of spindles will support rolled hay products. Cage-like structures will support large bales of hay that are rectangular in shape. When shopping for an agricultural hay feeder, consider how large a unit is and its load capacity. Research how the unit will need to be loaded and the type of base material that the feeder should be set up on.
Many feeder units contain a sloped base. The sloped surface will prevent water from accumulating within the unit. A series of vents that run underneath a unit will allow water to exit the feeder. Feeder styles may support feeding small groups of animals or large herds.
Hay feeders may vary in height. The types of livestock that you own should be contemplated when choosing a feeder unit. Your animals should be able to comfortably access a feeder from each side. Staggered openings along the sides of a feeder will allow you to space your animals out when they are eating hay.
Placement And Canopies
Stainless steel hay feeders will not rust. These types of feeders are durable and easy to clean. Considerations concerning where your animals will be standing while they are eating hay should be taken. If you currently use a series of troughs for feeding purposes, you may want to swap the troughs for a new feeder. The feeder can be added to the same area where the troughs are currently located.
If you are going to set up a new feeding area, consider the direction in which the sun rises and sets. Your feeder should be directly in the path of sunlight. The sunlight that beats down on the feeder during the winter will aid with melting ice or snow that accumulates on the feeder. If you would like to protect your animals from the elements, choose a spot to install the new feeder. Then, purchase a canopy and have it installed over the new feeder unit.
Contact a hay feeder supplier to learn more.