Question 1

Why should I use Hay Chix® nets? What are the benefits?

Accepted Answer

Hay Chix® nets save you time, money, hay and your horses’ overall health!· Less Clean-Up: By reducing hay waste, there's less to clean up in paddocks, stalls and pastures.· Proven Efficiency: Our nets (formerly Cinch Net) have been shown by the University of Minnesota to reduce hay waste by 57% in round bales and slow consumption to a more natural rate. Click here to read the study.· Improved Respiratory Health: The net prevents horses from burying their heads in the bale, reducing dust inhalation and improving respiratory health.· Healthier Horses: Grazing 24/7 is ideal for horses, allowing them to eat at their own pace. We offer various net options to meet your herd’s specific needs.

Question 2

Why is our net the best on the market?

Accepted Answer

We've combined real-world experience and University-backed research to design the best net on the market! At our research ranch in Weatherford, Texas, we are constantly evaluating best use practices for all the products we sell, manufacture and promote.· Top Quality: Made with premium materials and hand-sewn in Texas, our nets are built to last.· Expert Support: Our NETsperts use Hay Chix® nets themselves and are here to help whenever you have questions. ( info@haychix.com / 651-404-7377 )· Safe by Design: Fixed knots mean the holes won't stretch and become larger.· Easy to Use: Our signature Hoggle closure makes opening and closing safe & secure.· Always Innovating: We're constantly developing new solutions to make your life easier.

Question 3

Why do you offer so many sizes?

Accepted Answer

Because every herd is different. Whether stalled, in a pasture, small turnout, or a large herd—and whether you want to feed once a day or once a week—we've created a complete line to fit you and your herds routine.What do O, SF, and SFX stand for?O – Original (1¾" mesh)Our first and most versatile net. Great for:· Mixed herds· Feeding on the go—trailers, stalls, shows, or trail rides. Overall this opening size will not slow consumption as much as it will control waste, so it is a safe solution when feeding on the go.· Making hay last longer and reducing wasteSF – Slow Feed (1¼" mesh)Designed for easy keepers.· Slows hay consumption noticeably· Helps manage weight while keeping horses content· Reduces hay waste significantlySFX – Slow Feed Extreme (1" mesh)Ideal for extremely easy keepers and metabolic concerns.· Slows hay consumption even further· Best for closely monitored forage plansNote: All nets should be introduced properly by offering free-choice "loose hay" along with the net until your herd has proven to be capable of eating from the nets.Do you offer anything smaller than a 1" SFX?No, 1" is currently the smallest mesh size we offer.Some customers choose to double up their nets to reduce the hole size even more. If weight management is a challenge, we also recommend increasing your horse's exercise—something we've dealt with ourselves! We're always here if you have specific questions. We'd love to chat with you about your herd!

Question 4

How much does each net style hold?

Accepted Answer

Note:All capacities are estimates—our nets are generously sized to take the shape of whatever you put in them, making filling and handling easy!

Question 5

What net is best for inside a horse trailer?

Accepted Answer

The most popular choice is the Half Bale Net – 1¾" Original, which holds up to half a small 2-strand square bale.For shorter hauls or lighter feeding, try our Quarter Bale Net – 1¾" Original, designed to hold about two flakes.

Question 6

What net should I use on a large square bale?

Accepted Answer

We recommend the Large Bale 6' Net—it fits both 3x3x8 and 4x4x9 large square bales!

Question 7

What are Hay Chix® nets made of?

Accepted Answer

Hay Chix® nets are made from high-quality, UV-treated DuPont nylon non-toxic mesh and built to last.Proudly made in the USA—each net is handcrafted in Mineral Wells, TX by horse and livestock owners like you. Every net goes through a thorough quality control process to ensure you get the durability and performance you deserve.

Question 8

Why does our netting have knots?

Accepted Answer

After extensive research, we chose to use knotted netting because it is stronger and easier to repair. Knot-less netting is like pantyhose; the run has no place to stop!

Question 9

Why are Hay Chix® nets more expensive?

Accepted Answer

Because quality matters.· Made with only the best materials· Handmade in the USA – materials and all!· Built to last (cheaper nets often need to be replaced multiple times)· Backed by our 30-day money-back guarantee. YES, you can use it during the trial!

Question 10

How do I clean my Hay Chix® net?

Accepted Answer

Wash with warm water and a mild dish soap, then hang to air dry. Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach, as they will break down the fibers.Quick tip: Put your net back to work before it's completely dry—the netting fibers love moisture!

Question 11

Should I take the twine or plastic net wrap off my bales?

Accepted Answer

Yes—ALWAYS! Twine and plastic wrap can pose a serious choking or colic risk. As the bale is eaten down, loose twine can slip through the net and catch on your animal. Always remove it before using your net.

Question 12

How do I introduce my Hay Chix® net?

Accepted Answer

Always offer free-choice "loose hay" alongside the net for the first week, even if your animals have used slow feed nets before. This helps them adjust comfortably.

Question 13

How do I store my Hay Chix® net?

Accepted Answer

If you're storing your net seasonally, first wash it and let it dry completely. Then, place it in a sealed container to keep out mice and pests. When you're ready to use it again, re-wet the net—moisture helps the netting fibers bulk up and become stronger.

Question 14

Can I make my own net?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We offer DIY Netting made from the same high-quality material we use in our finished products. That said, most customers find it's easier, and often more cost-effective, to purchase a ready-to-use Hay Chix® net. After all, your time is valuable!

Question 15

What is self-regulating?

Accepted Answer

Horses are natural grazers. They are meant to have access to forage 24/7. When we control their feeding times, they can lose the natural ability to know when they're full.Self-regulating happens when a horse is given consistent access to forage. After an initial increase in eating (usually a week or two), they typically settle into a natural rhythm and eat only what they need.Important: Don't let the hay run out entirely. When a bale gets low, leave about 30 lbs. as free-choice hay while introducing the next netted bale. This helps your herd feel secure and supports self-regulation.

Question 16

Self-regulating is not happening, when will it?

Accepted Answer

Most horses begin to self-regulate within about 3 weeks, but it can vary based on factors like stall time, exercise, how they were previously fed and stress level.If your horse isn't there yet, don't worry—keep hay available at all times and increase their exercise if possible. Consistency and movement are key to helping them adjust.

Question 17

My horse will not eat from the net, why?

Accepted Answer

Some horses may refuse the net at first, assuming you will give them more free-choice hay. Allow them to adjust by offering the free-choice hay, and then give them an extended period of time with the net (try 12 hours) and see how much your horse has eaten.Almost all horses do just fine on the 1 3/4" netting. If this happens on the 1 1/4" or 1" netting, you may want to exchange for a larger opening size, as your horse may be frustrated.If this is an older horse who lacks the ability to thrive, you can also look into our Large Stock 2 1/2" opening size or talk to your veterinarian about what you can do for their diet to perk him/her up.

Question 18

How do Hay Chix® nets compare to other slow feed nets on the market?

Accepted Answer

We are not in the business of putting other people down, and we believe there is usually a place in the market for everyone. Hay Chix® is first for quality, service, and knowledge. We were first to the market with our Large Bale Cinch Net and we have set a standard set that others attempt to copy.We have a guarantee on our products that allows you to try it out to see whether it will work with your feeding program. Our nets are the ONLY University proven nets for facts that do not transfer across the board, as other nets are not made with the same materials or hand-sewn like Hay Chix® nets.

Question 19

Which mesh size should I use for…

Accepted Answer

Mixed Herds (Easy + Hard Keepers):Start with the 1¼" Slow Feed—it helps maintain weight in easy keepers.If you have more hard keepers, go with the 1¾" Original and increase exercise for the easy ones.Easy Keepers:Start with the 1¼" Slow Feed.If it's not working within 30 days, switch to the 1" Slow Feed Extreme.Foals:Use the 1¾" Original or 1¼" Slow Feed.If you are worried about hooves getting caught, place in a feeder or hang nets high.Draft Horses:All mesh sizes work—make your choice based on body condition.Always follow proper net introduction.Donkeys & Mules:Typically best on the 1¼" Slow Feed.If overweight, try the 1" Slow Feed Extreme.Introduce with free-choice loose hay.Goats, Sheep, Llamas & Alpacas:Use the 1¼" Slow Feed—great for small muzzles and preventing waste.Cattle:Use our Large Stock Net (2½") made specifically for large herds and easy access.Geriatric Horses:The 1¾" Original usually works best.If needed, switch to the 2½" Large Stock Net within the 30-day trial.

Question 20

How long does a Hay Chix® net last?

Accepted Answer

Most customers reorder every 3–5 years. Every herd is different, and some herds are more destructive than others.Good news! Hay Chix® nets are easy to repair, and you can order patch kits and repair twine directly from us to extend the life of your net.

Question 21

How many horses can eat from one net?

Accepted Answer

While every herd is different, we suggest no more than 5 horses per round bale to allow everyone enough time at the bale without issues of dominance.

Question 22

Can horses tear holes in a Hay Chix® net?

Accepted Answer

Yes, it is possible. (There is a fine line between breaking strength and horse safety.) We want the net to break away if a horse/animal gets itself into a bad situation. The horses/animals' safety is always #1.If you follow our suggested guidelines for introduction and do not allow your hay nets to go empty, you should have great success. Remember, horses will be hardest on the nets when they are learning to eat from them. To show you how much we believe in our product, we give you 30 days to make your decision on whether our net is the right choice for you.If you find a hole in your net, they are very easy to fix! A small amount of repair twine came with your original net (it is attached the product tag to the net). If you no longer have that repair twine, reach out to us!

Question 23

How do I stop hole-tearing behavior?

Accepted Answer

Check your nets daily and repair any new holes right away using the Hay Chix® Repair Twine included with your net. Quick fixes help stop the behavior from becoming a habit.If the hole is too large, reach out—we offer free Patch Kits or extra twine within 90 days of purchase.Usually, after a repair, the horse stops. If not, send us photos at info@haychix.com—we're always here to help!

Question 24

Can my horse/animal paw holes in my Hay Chix® net?

Accepted Answer

While anything is possible with horses, this has not been a common occurrence. The horses may paw at the net to loosen the hay. If this is a concern to you, use a feeder as a barrier around the netted bale. What kind of barrier? We can help you with this, too! Contact us today! (info@haychix.com / 651-404-7377)

Question 25

How do I repair my net with the Repair Twine?

Accepted Answer

Don't worry, repairing your net is easy! A small piece of repair twine was included with your original net (it held the product tag). If you've misplaced it, contact us and we'll get you more. Need a full spool? You can order one HEREFor step-by-step help, check out our YouTube tutorial: Hay Chix® Net Repair Video

Question 26

What is the tensile strength of Hay Chix® netting?

Accepted Answer

Our Original material is 360 lbs. The heavy-duty is 640 lbs.

Question 27

Did my Hay Chix® net shrink?

Accepted Answer

Your Hay Chix® net should not shrink. Over time, the nylon fibers bulk up as they're exposed to dirt, moisture, and temperature changes. This gives the net a thicker look, which is entirely normal—and actually a sign of durability!

Question 28

My horse has shoes, can I use Hay Chix® nets?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can! Just make sure the net is hung high enough so your horse can't paw and catch a shoe—or use a feeder or hay ring that's flush with the ground for added safety.Creative setup ideas include:· Water tanks· Homemade feeders· Tires· Boots (Soft Rides etc.) For more inspiration, check out our Facebook page; the sky's the limit for safe, DIY feeding setups with shod horses!

Question 29

My new net looks thinner than my old net…Why?

Accepted Answer

That's normal! Over time, the nylon fibers bulk up as they're exposed to dirt, moisture, and temperature change. This gives your older net a thicker look—and actually makes it stronger with every use.

Question 30

What if my horse has a dental issue?

Accepted Answer

Depending on the actual issue, Hay Chix® nets may be a HUGE benefit for your horse. If your horse tends to quid its hay or can't chew it up, by using a Hay Chix® net (typically the 1 3/4" Original), the amount of hay they take in is lessened and the horse can chew and swallow each bite. This will reduce the need for so much complete feed.If your horse has other dental problems, check with your veterinarian or equine dentist first. In most cases, horses do just fine as they typically maneuver the netting with their lips. For those of you who love research: Effect of hay nets on horse bodyweight, body condition score, hay usage, and dental health in mature adult horses - ScienceDirect

Question 31

Can my Hay Chix® net freeze to the ground?

Accepted Answer

It can happen, but it's uncommon. The hay usually insulates the netting under the bale, and horses tend to move it around enough to prevent freezing.Freezing is more likely when there's very little hay left and freezing rain is in the forecast. To prevent this, try attaching the net opening to your feeder base, or place a pallet or tarp underneath the netted bale, with a feeder around it.

Question 32

I am tax exempt, do you have to charge me tax?

Accepted Answer

You can email (info@haychix.com) your tax-exempt form for us to keep on our account file. Once we have this file, we will remove the tax charge.

Question 33

How can you help my rescue?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely!!! CLICK HERE to learn more about our White Horse Rehab program!

Question 34

Do you sponsor people?

Accepted Answer

We do consider sponsorships and donations, but due to the high number of requests, we aren't able to support them all. To apply, please download and complete our sponsorship form at least 90 days in advance of when the product is needed.Submit your form to info@haychix.com with the subject line: Sponsor/Donation Request Click here to download the Sponsor/Donation Form

Question 35

How do I become an Authorized Hay Chix® dealer?

Accepted Answer

Please contact us at dealer@haychix.com for dealership information!

Question 36

How long will it take to receive my order?

Accepted Answer

Shipping rates and options are calculated at checkout. Most orders ship within 24–48 hours of processing.Need it fast? Place your order on a business day before 10 AM CST—we'll do our best to prioritize it, but expedited shipping is not guaranteed. (Note: USPS Priority Mail is not considered expedited.)You'll receive tracking info as soon as your order ships.Questions? Call us at 651-404-7377, we're happy to help!

Question 37

Do you ship internationally?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we do!To place an international order, start by creating an account—click the "Sign-In" link at the top right of our website and enter your shipping details. If your country isn't listed, call us at 651-404-7377 and we'll do our best to help.Note: To use FedEx International, you'll need a FedEx account number. If you don't have one, you'll need to select another shipping option.Questions? We're just a call away, 651-404-7377!

Question 38

What are my payment options?

Accepted Answer

You can choose from any of our available payment methods during checkout. Just note—your order won't ship until payment is received.

Question 39

Can Hay Chix® make me a custom net?

Accepted Answer

We typically don't take on custom orders, but we do consider bulk custom requests on a case-by-case basis.Please email us at info@haychix.com with details, and we'll see how we can help!

Question 40

Can I get a discount?

Accepted Answer

Check out our referral program!Send your friends a 20% discount, and when they place an order using your link, you'll get $20 off your next purchase. [Check out our Referral Program HERE!]

Question 41

What is your warranty?

Accepted Answer

We stand behind our products with two great guarantees:30-Day Risk-Free Money Back GuaranteeTry it for 30 days—if you're unsatisfied, we'll refund or exchange your product (less shipping).90-Day Satisfaction GuaranteeNeed repair twine or a patch kit? We'll supply it free within the first 90 days.

Question 42

How do I return or exchange a product?

Accepted Answer

It's very simple! Click Here

Question 43

I don't have a receipt, can I get my money back?

Accepted Answer

Yes! As long as your order was placed online or by phone and it's within our 30-day guarantee period, we can look it up in our system and process your return. No printed receipt needed!

Question 44

I bought a net from a Hay Chix® dealer and I want to exchange, how can I do this?

Accepted Answer

If it's within 30 days and you have the original receipt, we're happy to help with an exchange.Customers are responsible for return shipping and must request an RMA number to start the process. [Click here to get started.]

Frequently Asked Questions