Fishy smell from haylage...

[Sophie123]

Recently opened a new haylage bale at the yard and it has a horrible fish like smell coming from it, it also has large mouldy areas which are concerning.

Does anyone have any experience with this horrible smell?

 

[lcharles]

No idea but would it of been baled when really wet? I wouldnt feed mouldy hay x

 

[smokey]

I definitely wouldn't feed it! I agree it's probably been baled when still wet, and the smell indicates there is some bacteria working away there.

 

[Cuffey]

Sophie please dont feed it or allow others to do so
To be safe haylage should have an acid PH around 4 to 6
If you are smelling ammonia--fishy smell there has been secondary fermentation which could kill your pony

Lots of links available eg
http://www.haylageforhorses.co.uk/nutrition.htm

 

[Littlelegs]

It's off, don't feed it.

 

[YasandCrystal]

Good haylage should have a nice pleasant aroma, which I liken from my smoking days, many years ago to a fresh tobacco smell.

If it ever smells rank like sick or rotting then throw it, it's off. It should never be really wet. White mould is ok on haylage and not harmful. Hope this helps.

 

[MrsMozart]

Ditto the don't feed!

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