Hay that is stored over a long period of time will lose which essential vitamin?

Hay that is stored over a long period of time will lose vitamin A. This vitamin is particularly susceptible to degradation due to exposure to light, heat, and moisture during storage. Vitamin A is crucial for various bodily functions in horses, including vision, immune function, and skin health. When hay is harvested and cured, it contains a good amount of vitamin A, predominantly in the form of carotenoids. However, as time passes, these carotenoids can break down, especially in conditions that are not optimal for hay storage.

This degradation means that horses consuming old hay may not receive adequate levels of vitamin A, which can lead to health issues. It is essential for horse owners and caregivers to consider the storage conditions of hay and to test its nutritional quality over time to ensure that vitamin A levels remain sufficient for the animals' needs. Proper management of hay storage can mitigate losses and help maintain nutritional value for the horses.