Last Updated: February 9, 2026
Target Keywords: horse destroys hay net, aggressive eater slow feeder, durable hay net for horses, horse rips hay net
Target Audience: Horse owners frustrated with nets being destroyed
2-Minute Version (Read This First)
1) What is the real problem?
Your horse is not “bad”. Most net destruction is a setup mismatch: hole size, mounting, hunger pressure, or all three.
2) Why does it matter?
Destroyed nets cost money, but the bigger issue is injury risk and chronic feeding stress.
3) What should you do next?
- Increase hole size first (many aggressive eaters do better at 1.75” to 2”).
- Anchor top and bottom so the net does not swing.
- If destruction continues, switch to container-style feeders instead of forcing net use.
The Frustrating Reality of Aggressive Eaters
You bought a slow-feed hay net expecting it to last months. Instead, your horse destroyed it in less than a week—or maybe just one night.
Sound familiar?
“Didn’t even last one night—my horse tore right through it.” — Amazon Review
“The material is too thin. My horse had it in shreds within days.” — Amazon Review
If you’re reading this, you’re in a very common situation. Net destruction shows up in review after review, especially with lighter materials.
But here’s the good news: there ARE solutions. In this guide, we’ll cover:
- Why your horse destroys hay nets (the behavior behind it)
- 5 proven solutions—from quick fixes to premium upgrades
- Product recommendations specifically for aggressive chewers
- When to ditch nets altogether
72-Hour Stabilization Plan (Use This First)
- Move to larger holes (often 1.75”-2”) immediately.
- Anchor top and bottom so the net cannot swing away.
- Increase forage access time to reduce panic eating.
- If destruction continues, stop forcing nets and trial a container feeder.
This short protocol solves a large share of “destroyer” cases before you spend more money.
Why Does Your Horse Destroy Hay Nets?
Before jumping to solutions, it’s important to understand why this behavior happens. Aggressive hay net destruction isn’t random—it’s communication.
The 6 Root Causes
| Root Cause | What’s Happening | Signs to Look For |
|---|---|---|
| Frustration | Holes too small, hay too hard to extract | Pulling, yanking, ears pinned back |
| Hunger Anxiety | Long periods without food create desperation | Frantic behavior when hay appears |
| Boredom | Insufficient mental/physical stimulation | Destructive behavior throughout stable |
| Wrong Net Position | Swinging nets are hard to eat from | Pawing, pushing with head |
| Natural Instinct Conflict | Horses evolved to graze head-down; high nets feel wrong | Attempts to pull net downward |
| Underlying Health Issues | Ulcers, dental problems, or nutritional deficiencies | Rushed eating, discomfort signs |
The Science of Frustration Behavior
Research from the University of Turin (Bordin et al., 2024) studied frustration behaviors in horses using slow feeders:
“The expression of frustration behaviors, such as bite and pull, was exacerbated with the use of haynets… When manipulating forage intake rate, it is important to assess the horse’s adaptation and acceptance of the slow feeding device.” — Kentucky Equine Research
Frustration indicators include:
- Biting and shaking the haynet
- Ears backward or pinned
- Pawing or striking with forelimbs
- Head pushing
- Flinging the net
- Giving up entirely (in extreme cases)
Survey Data (1,283 horse owners):
| Issue | % Reporting |
|---|---|
| Increased workload | 32-35% |
| Health problems | <8% |
| Accidents | <8% |
| High vertical nets → problems | 68.9% |
| Other net types → problems | 49.9% |
“Respondents using high vertical nets were significantly more likely to report at least one problem, compared to respondents using other types of nets.” — Roig-Pons et al., Journal of Veterinary Behavior (2025)
Quick Takeaway: 1,283-Survey Problem Report Rates
| Reported issue | Rate in survey | Practical meaning for aggressive eaters |
|---|---|---|
| No issues reported | ~50% | Many horses adapt when setup is correct |
| Increased workload | ~33% (32.7% operators / 34.4% owners) | Management friction is common during adjustment |
| Health problems | <8% | Monitor oral comfort and feeding behavior during transition |
| Accidents/injuries | 1.1-3.8% | Anchor method and shoeing status are critical risk controls |
| Frustration behaviors | <10% | Often reduced by larger holes and anti-swing setup |
Quick Takeaway: Net Type Comparison for Problem Risk
| Net type | Typical use share | Problem signal | Aggressive-eater recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Covering nets (CO) | 67% (highest) | Lower issue tendency than HV nets | Best starting structure for destructive horses |
| High vertical (HV) | 30-50% | Highest issue signal (68.9% >=1 problem) | Avoid as first-line option for known net destroyers |
| High horizontal (HH) | 21-50% | Intermediate signal | Use only with strong anchoring and larger holes |
| Ground nets (GR) | 12-24% | Lower overall issue signal, but hoof-risk concern | Prefer barefoot horses; avoid for shod destroyers |
Solution #1: Start with the Right Hole Size
The Problem with “Ultra Slow” Nets
Many horse owners buy 1” or 1.25” (ultra-slow) nets thinking smaller = better. But for aggressive eaters, smaller holes = more frustration = faster destruction.
The Hole Size Strategy
| Hole Size | Speed | Best For | Frustration Risk |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1” | Ultra Slow | Ponies, minis, metabolic horses | ⚠️ HIGH for aggressive eaters |
| 1.25” | Very Slow | Easy keepers, small horses | ⚠️ Moderate-High |
| 1.5”-1.75” | Moderate | Most horses (start here) | ✅ Low |
| 2” | Light Slow | Seniors, hard keepers, aggressive eaters | ✅ Very Low |
| 2.5” | Very Light | Dental issues, extreme frustration cases | ✅ Minimal |
Recommendation for Aggressive Eaters
Start with 1.75”-2” holes, not the smallest available. Yes, your horse will eat faster—but:
- The net survives
- Frustration decreases
- You can gradually transition to smaller holes over weeks
“Switching to a hay net with larger holes (e.g., from 3cm to 4cm or 6cm) can significantly reduce frustration and prevent ripping.” — JustGrazin Custom Nets
Solution #2: Secure the Net Properly
Why Swinging Nets Cause Destruction
A hay net that swings freely is extremely frustrating for horses. Every time they try to grab a mouthful, the net moves away.
Result? They bite harder, pull harder, and eventually tear it apart.
How to Anchor Your Hay Net
| Method | How to Do It | Effectiveness |
|---|---|---|
| Tie both ends | Secure top AND bottom of net to wall/fence | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Best |
| Use a hay box/trough | Place net inside a container | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Best |
| Double-anchor points | Two attachment points prevent spinning | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Great |
| Corner mounting | Mount in a corner for natural stability | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Great |
| Single tie at top only | Only the top is secured | ⭐⭐ Poor (allows swinging) |
The Optimal Height
According to Dr. Andrea Ellis’s research:
“Hang the haynet so its bottom reaches no lower than the shoulder of the horse. We used hangers 30 cm above withers so horses can pull downwards, which allows gravity to help them.”
Avoid:
- Too high (causes neck strain, increases frustration)
- Too low (horses pull upward, creating more tension)
Solution #3: Upgrade to Heavy-Duty Nets
Not all hay nets are created equal. Cheap Amazon nets often use thin materials that can’t withstand aggressive use.
Premium Nets Built for Aggressive Eaters
| Brand | Material | Durability Rating | Key Feature | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gutzbusta | Heavy-duty polyethylene | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | “Pretty indestructible” | $$-$$$ |
| Orange Slow Feeder | Marine-grade netting, 1,200 lb breaking strength | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | UV inhibited, outdoor tough | $$ |
| Hay Chix | Heavy-duty Dupont fiber | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Reddit’s #1 recommendation | $$ |
| Trickle Net | 4mm rot-proof braided polyethylene | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Handmade, fixed 2.5cm holes | $$ |
| NibbleNet | Heavy-duty vinyl + poly webbing | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | USA made, multiple hole sizes | $$ |
| Shires Greedy Feeder | Reinforced nylon | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Budget-friendly durable option | $ |
User Testimonials
“I tried cheap Amazon nets first. They lasted 2 weeks. My Hay Chix net is going on 3 years with my destructive horse.” — Reddit r/Horses
“Gutzbusta nets are sought after for their exceptional quality, durability, and effectiveness.” — GutZBusta.com
Cost Comparison: Cheap vs. Durable
Scenario: Aggressive eater destroys cheap nets every 2 weeks
| Option | Cost | Lifespan | Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cheap Amazon net ($20) | $20 | 2 weeks | $520/year |
| Premium net ($80) | $80 | 2+ years | $40/year |
Investing in quality saves $480/year.
Solution #4: Try Container-Style Slow Feeders
For the most aggressive destroyers, hay nets might simply be the wrong solution. Container-style feeders offer the same slow-feeding benefits—without anything to bite through.
Container Options for Aggressive Eaters
| Product | Design | Why It Works | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Porta-Grazer | Rotating restrictor pan design | No net at all—nothing to destroy | $249-379 |
| OptiMizer InStall | Manger with replaceable UltraNet | Net is protected inside container | $495-545 |
| Hay Box with Metal Grate | Openings in metal, not fabric | Metal can’t be chewed through | $150-300 |
| DIY Rubbermaid + Net | Net secured inside heavy trough | Trough protects net edges | $100-130 |
Why Container Feeders Work
- Physical protection: Net is inside a container; edges aren’t exposed
- Stability: Heavy containers don’t swing or move
- Ground-level option: Natural head-down posture reduces frustration
- Nothing to grab and pull: Horses access hay through openings, not by yanking
Spotlight: OptiMizer UltraNet
For the most extreme destroyers, OptiMizer offers an UltraNet upgrade:
| Feature | Standard Net | UltraNet |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Regular knotless | Ultra-high strength polymer |
| Tensile Strength | Standard | 15x stronger than steel (claimed) |
| Cost | Included | +$99 |
| Best For | Normal horses | Aggressive chewers, net destroyers |
Solution #5: Address the Root Cause
If your horse is aggressively destroying nets—not just wearing them out—there may be an underlying issue beyond frustration.
Health Checks to Consider
| Issue | Symptoms | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Gastric Ulcers | Rushed eating, discomfort, girthiness | Veterinary gastroscopy |
| Dental Problems | Difficulty chewing, dropping feed, quidding | Regular dental exams |
| Nutritional Deficiency | Persistent hunger despite adequate hay | Hay nutrient testing |
| Boredom/Isolation | Destructive behavior throughout stable | More turnout, enrichment |
Why Ulcers Matter
Research shows horses fed fewer than 3 meals per day are 6-7 times more likely to develop gastric ulcers (Banse et al., Luthersson et al.). An ulcer-prone horse may eat aggressively because:
- Their stomach hurts when empty
- They associate food with pain relief
- Hunger anxiety drives frantic eating
Solution: If ulcers are suspected, consult your vet. Treatment + continuous forage access can dramatically change behavior.
The “Constant Forage” Approach
Counter-intuitively, free-choice hay can actually reduce aggressive eating:
“Oddly, the best way to stop overeating in my experience is free feeding. When they know food is always there, they stop panic-eating.” — Reddit r/Horses
| Feeding Method | Aggression Level | Why |
|---|---|---|
| 2 meals/day (restricted) | ⚠️ HIGH | Creates feast/famine anxiety |
| Multiple small meals | Moderate | Reduces but doesn’t eliminate |
| Slow feeder 24/7 | ✅ LOW | Constant access = no panic |
Quick Wins: What to Try First
Before investing in expensive equipment, try these quick, low-cost adjustments:
72-Hour Test Protocol
- Day 1: Increase hole size (if possible) or switch to a larger-hole net temporarily
- Day 1: Double-secure your net (anchor top AND bottom)
- Day 2: Add a second hay source (even just a pile on the ground) to reduce hunger anxiety
- Day 3: Observe behavior changes
If destruction continues after 72 hours: Move to premium products or container feeders.
Product Recommendation Matrix
| Your Situation | Recommended Solution | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Moderate aggression, first attempt | Hay Chix or Gutzbusta (larger hole) | $60-100 |
| Destroyed multiple nets | Orange Slow Feeder (marine grade) | $80-120 |
| Extreme destroyer, net not viable | Porta-Grazer (no net) | $249-379 |
| Want professional solution | OptiMizer with UltraNet | $595+ |
| DIY/budget option | Container + anchored net | $100-150 |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake | Why It Fails | Better Approach |
|---|---|---|
| Buying the smallest holes possible | Maximizes frustration | Start with 1.75”-2”, decrease gradually |
| Single-point hanging | Net swings = frustration | Double-anchor or container |
| Empty nets for hours | Creates hunger panic | Ensure continuous access |
| Replacing with same cheap net | Same product = same result | Upgrade materials or design |
| Ignoring health issues | Treating symptom, not cause | Vet check for ulcers/dental |
Case Study: From Destroyer to Calm Eater
Horse: 16hh Thoroughbred, history of destroying 2-3 nets per month
Previous Setup:
- Cheap 1.5” hole net from Amazon
- Hung from single ceiling ring
- Fed twice daily
Problems:
- Net destroyed in 3-5 days
- Horse showed signs of frustration (ears back, head pushing)
- Rushed eating when hay appeared
Changes Made:
- Switched to Hay Chix with 2” holes
- Placed inside 100-gallon Rubbermaid trough
- Added low-quality grass hay pile for 24/7 nibbling
Results After 4 Weeks:
- Same net still intact
- Calmer eating behavior
- No signs of frustration
- Estimated annual savings: $400+ on net replacements
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I just give up on hay nets?
Not necessarily. Most aggressive eaters can use hay nets successfully with the right:
- Hole size
- Mounting method
- Net quality
If nets truly don’t work, container feeders are an excellent alternative.
Will a smaller hole size eventually work if I train my horse?
Possibly, but proceed slowly. Introduce smaller holes only after your horse is calm and comfortable with larger holes. Never force a frustrated horse onto an even more restrictive system.
Are knotted or knotless nets better for aggressive eaters?
Both can work:
- Knotted nets: Often more durable due to traditional rope construction
- Knotless nets: Gentler on teeth, but ensure they’re heavy-duty (not cheap thin mesh)
The material strength matters more than knot style.
My horse is shod—are hay nets safe?
Extra caution is needed. Ground-level nets pose entanglement risk for shod horses. Survey data shows that 60% of horses using slow feeders are barefoot (vs. 27% general population), suggesting owners recognize this risk.
For shod horses, consider:
- Wall-mounted nets (off the ground)
- Container-style feeders
- Elevated hay racks
Conclusion
Watching your horse destroy hay net after hay net is frustrating—and expensive. But with the right approach, even the most aggressive eaters can benefit from slow feeding.
Key Takeaways:
- Understand the behavior: Destruction = communication (frustration, hunger, boredom)
- Start with larger holes: 1.75”-2” is better than ultra-small for aggressive eaters
- Secure the net properly: Double-anchor, no swinging
- Invest in quality: Premium nets cost less in the long run
- Consider containers: For extreme cases, ditch nets for Porta-Grazer or similar
- Check for health issues: Ulcers and dental problems can drive aggressive eating
Your horse isn’t trying to be difficult—they’re telling you something. Listen, adjust, and find the system that works for both of you.
Related Articles
- slow feeder troubleshooting guide - Go step-by-step when destruction behavior escalates or changes suddenly.
- hay net hole size guide - Match opening size to reduce frustration-driven biting and ripping.
- OptiMizer hay feeder review - See a high-durability feeder option for persistent heavy chewers.
- best slow feeder buying guide - Compare alternatives if your current setup keeps failing.
Research Sources
- Bordin et al. (2024). Feeding behaviour related to different feeding devices. Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition.
- Kentucky Equine Research. (2024). Slow-Feeding Devices: Stresses in Horses Studied.
- Roig-Pons et al. (2025). Slow-feeding dispensers for horses: Who, how and why? Journal of Veterinary Behavior.
- Reddit communities: r/Equestrian, r/Horses
- Amazon product reviews (analyzed 2026-02)
- Product sources: Gutzbusta.com, HayChix.com, OrangeSlowFeeder.com, RidingWarehouse.com
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes and does not replace veterinary advice. If your horse shows signs of health issues (ulcers, dental problems, nutritional deficiencies), consult a qualified veterinarian.