Alfalfa is one of the most nutritious and versatile forage options available for livestock, horses, and small animals. Known for its high protein content, digestible fiber, and rich vitamin and mineral profile, alfalfa is a staple in many feeding programs. Whether in the form of alfalfa hay, alfalfa pellets, or alfalfa cubes, this legume offers numerous benefits for animal health and performance.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the differences between these three forms of alfalfa animal feed, their advantages, and how to choose the best option for your animals.
Why Alfalfa is a Superior Animal Feed
Alfalfa (Medicago sativa) is often called the “Queen of Forages” due to its exceptional nutritional value. Some key benefits include:
- High Protein Content (15-22%) – Supports muscle growth and repair.
- Rich in Calcium & Phosphorus – Essential for bone health, especially in growing and lactating animals.
- Digestible Fiber – Promotes gut health and efficient digestion.
- Vitamins A, D, E, and K – Boosts immune function and overall vitality.
- Natural Antioxidants – Helps reduce oxidative stress in animals.
Because of these qualities, alfalfa is widely used for:
- Horses (performance, breeding, and senior horses)
- Dairy and beef cattle
- Goats, sheep, and rabbits
- Small pets like guinea pigs and chinchillas
Now, let’s dive into the three primary forms of alfalfa feed: hay, pellets, and cubes.
1. Alfalfa Hay: The Traditional Forage Choice
Alfalfa hay is the most common and natural form of alfalfa feed. It consists of dried alfalfa plants, typically baled for easy storage and feeding. For those seeking top-quality forage, our premium alfalfa hay bales offer exceptional nutrition and quality.
Benefits of Alfalfa Hay
✅ Encourages Natural Grazing Behavior – Animals chew longer, promoting saliva production and digestive health.
✅ High Palatability – Most livestock and horses prefer the taste and texture of alfalfa hay.
✅ Excellent for Dental Health – The fibrous structure helps wear down teeth naturally.
✅ Flexible Feeding Options – Can be fed free-choice or in measured portions.
Best Uses for Alfalfa Hay
- Horses: Ideal for high-performance equines, young growing horses, and lactating mares.
- Dairy Cows: Enhances milk production due to its protein and calcium content.
- Small Animals: Rabbits, guinea pigs, and other herbivores thrive on leafy alfalfa hay.
Learn more about alfalfa hay for different animals to understand how it benefits various species.
Considerations When Feeding Alfalfa Hay
⚠ Quality Matters – Look for green, leafy hay with minimal stems and no mold.
⚠ Protein & Sugar Content – Some animals (e.g., insulin-resistant horses) may need moderated intake.
⚠ Storage Needs – Must be kept dry to prevent spoilage.
For premium alfalfa hay for sale, ensure you source from reputable suppliers to guarantee freshness and nutritional value.
2. Alfalfa Pellets: Convenient & Nutrient-Dense
Alfalfa pellets are made by compressing dried alfalfa into small, uniform pellets. This form is highly convenient and reduces waste.
Benefits of Alfalfa Pellets
✅ Easy to Store & Feed – Less space required compared to bales.
✅ Consistent Nutrition – Each pellet contains a balanced portion of leaves and stems.
✅ Reduced Waste – Animals can’t selectively eat only the leaves, ensuring full nutrient intake.
✅ Ideal for Mixing with Grains – Great for creating customized feed blends.
Best Uses for Alfalfa Pellets
- Senior Horses & Cattle: Easier to chew for animals with dental issues.
- Small Livestock: Convenient for goats, sheep, and rabbits.
- Supplemental Feeding: Works well alongside pasture or lower-quality hay.
Considerations When Feeding Alfalfa Pellets
⚠ Soaking May Be Needed – Some animals prefer softened pellets.
⚠ Dust Control – Low-dust pellets are better for respiratory health.
⚠ Balanced Diet Required – Should be part of a varied feeding program.
For high-quality alfalfa pellets, choose products with no artificial additives and high leaf content.
3. Alfalfa Cubes: The Perfect Middle Ground
Alfalfa cubes are a hybrid between hay and pellets—lightly compressed alfalfa in cube form. They offer the benefits of both hay and pellets.
Benefits of Alfalfa Cubes
✅ Retains Natural Fiber Length – Better for digestion than finely ground pellets.
✅ Less Messy Than Loose Hay – Reduces waste while still encouraging chewing.
✅ Easy to Portion Control – Ideal for precise feeding programs.
✅ Good for Travel & Training – Convenient for transporting and feeding on the go.
Best Uses for Alfalfa Cubes
- Performance Horses: Provides sustained energy without excess bulk.
- Beef Cattle: Enhances weight gain and feed efficiency.
- Small Farms: Easier handling compared to large bales.
For cattle and goat owners, our guide on alfalfa hay for cattle and goats provides specialized feeding recommendations.
Considerations When Feeding Alfalfa Cubes
⚠ Soaking Option – Can be soaked for older animals or those with choke risk.
⚠ Check for Hardness – Some cubes may be too dense for easy chewing.
⚠ Storage Conditions – Should be kept dry to maintain freshness.
For top-grade alfalfa cubes for sale, select products that are uniform in size and free from dust.
How to Choose Between Alfalfa Hay, Pellets, and Cubes
| Factor | Alfalfa Hay | Alfalfa Pellets | Alfalfa Cubes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Feeding Behavior | Encourages grazing | Less natural chewing | Moderate chewing |
| Storage | Requires more space | Compact storage | Moderate space needed |
| Waste Reduction | Higher waste | Minimal waste | Low to moderate waste |
| Best For | Horses, dairy cows, small pets | Senior animals, mixed feed | Performance animals, travel feeding |
Final Recommendations
- For Natural Grazing → Choose alfalfa hay or our premium alfalfa hay bales.
- For Convenience → Opt for alfalfa pellets.
- For Balanced Fiber & Portion Control → Use alfalfa cubes.
Conclusion
Alfalfa remains one of the best forage choices for livestock and horses, offering unmatched nutrition in various forms. Whether you prefer the natural appeal of alfalfa hay, the convenience of alfalfa pellets, or the balanced benefits of alfalfa cubes, each option has unique advantages.
By understanding your animals’ needs and feeding goals, you can select the best alfalfa product to optimize their health, performance, and well-being.