Fluffy Feeders with iron shoes

1. Is there a risk of the horse getting stuck?

Yes, it is possible that the net could get between the shoe and the hoof. However, when the feeder is not tied to anything, the risk of a horse getting stuck (as could happen with hanging hay nets) is very small.

Over 70% of our customers use Fluffy Feeders with shod horses and find them safe.

When assessing the safety of our feeders for a particular horse, we look at both benefits and risks. On one hand, we consider the possible risks of using the feeder. On the other hand, we consider the risks of not using slow feeding tools, such as gastric ulcers, laminitis, colic, impaction colic, obesity, mental health issues, boredom, and increased stress levels.

If using Fluffy Feeders can help prevent any of these conditions, then the benefits clearly outweigh the potential risks.

2. What if the horse has ice studs?

Fluffy Feeders have been successfully used throughout the year, even during the winter conditions.

If there are sharp edges on the shoe/hoof, such as nails or ice studs, and the horse paws at the feeder, the fabric may be damaged. Typically, smaller holes do not spread, and larger holes can be repaired (by sewing or with fabric tape).

Important: With proper and regular hoof care the risks mentioned in points 1 and 2 can be minimized. The horse owner is ultimately the best person to decide whether it is safe to use our feeders with their horses.

Please note that several horse veterinarians and clinics are among our resellers, and many equine well-being specialists are also our customers. They consistently report that the benefits outweigh the risks.