Grass-Alfalfa Mix Hay
For moderate work, older horses, or gastric-sensitive horses -- a mix hay splits the difference between grass hay's lower calories and alfalfa's higher protein and ulcer-buffering benefits.
Runner-up: Timothy or Orchardgrass Hay · Retake the quiz
Why this fits you
- Your horse is in moderate work -- more than light riding, less than heavy training.
- Your horse is a senior needing more digestible, higher-quality forage.
- Your horse has diagnosed or suspected gastric ulcers.
A grass-alfalfa mix combines the moderate calorie profile of grass hay with some of alfalfa's protein and calcium benefits, making it a versatile middle-ground choice -- particularly useful for moderate-work horses that need a bit more than pure grass hay, older horses that benefit from more digestible forage, or horses managing gastric ulcers where alfalfa's buffering properties help without the full calorie load of pure alfalfa.
How it compares
| Hay type | Protein | Sugar/starch risk | Typical use |
| Timothy or Orchardgrass Hay | 8-10% | Moderate | Healthy adult maintenance |
| Low-Sugar Hay | Varies (tested) | Tested under 10% | Metabolic/laminitis horses |
| Alfalfa Hay | 15-20% | Low-moderate | Growth, lactation, heavy work |
| Grass-Alfalfa Mix Hay | 10-15% | Low-moderate | Moderate work, ulcers, seniors |
| Bermudagrass Hay | 7-10% | Generally low | Southeast maintenance |
| Hay Cubes or Chopped Forage | Varies by type | Varies by type | Dental/chewing issues |
Buying checklist
- A good middle-ground choice when you're not sure between grass and alfalfa alone
- Check the actual mix ratio -- proportions vary by supplier
- Good option for senior horses transitioning away from straight grass hay
When this isn’t the right fit
A mix may be more than an easy keeper needs, and it is not a substitute for tested low-sugar hay in a metabolic horse. The ratio varies by supplier, so ask what is in the bale.
Other results from this quiz may suit your situation better:
- Hay Cubes or Chopped Forage: for horses that drop wads of hay, chew slowly, or have missing teeth
- Alfalfa Hay: for young growing horses, nursing mares, or horses in heavy work
- Bermudagrass Hay: for horse owners in the Southeast and Gulf Coast
- Low-Sugar Hay: for metabolic horses (insulin resistance, EMS, Cushing's/PPID) or those with a laminitis history
- Timothy or Orchardgrass Hay: for most healthy adult horses in light to moderate work
Because this touches your horse’s health or comfort, check with your veterinarian before you act on a general guide like this one.
Run the numbers
Frequently asked questions
What's a typical grass-to-alfalfa ratio in mix hay?
Ratios vary by supplier, commonly ranging from 50/50 to 80/20 grass-to-alfalfa -- ask your hay supplier about their specific mix if the exact ratio matters for your horse's needs.
Is mix hay good for senior horses?
Often yes -- the added digestibility and protein can help older horses maintain condition, especially if dental issues make heavier, coarser hay harder to process.
Can mix hay help with ulcers as much as pure alfalfa?
It provides some buffering benefit from its alfalfa content, though likely less than pure alfalfa -- discuss the right forage strategy with your vet if ulcers are a specific, diagnosed concern.
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