The HayBox Automatic Hay Feeder is designed to save you time, money, and support the health and well being of your horses. You can set the timer to feed multiple times per day-- rain, snow, or shine!
❓Tired of feeding hay twice a day in every kind of weather without a break?
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✓Reviewed by Ann Pruitt, InfoHorse.com·Updated April 2026
HAYBOX automatic hay feeder installed in a horse pen by The Hay Box
Created by Todd Libsack in Greeley, Colorado , the HayBox was born out of decades of experience in hay production and horse ownership. Todd understands the feeding struggle — the time, the routine, and the stress of finding reliable help when plans change. After too many nights running outside in a storm or rearranging life around feeding schedules, he finally said:.
TheHAYBOX- Built By a Horse Owner- For Horse Owners!
If you have horses, you understand the commitment. Feeding isn't optional — it’s every morning, every evening, in every kind of weather. Whether it’s raining sideways, snowing, or blowing 40 mph, the horses still expect and need their meals. And if you’re stuck at work, heading to a roping, out to dinner, or on vacation, your mind is back at home, hoping someone fed on time.That’s exactly where the HayBox began.
Created by Todd Libsack in Greeley, Colorado, the HayBox was born out of decades of experience in hay production and horse ownership. Todd understands the feeding struggle — the time, the routine, and the stress of finding reliable help when plans change. After too many nights running outside in a storm or rearranging life around feeding schedules, he finally said:
“There has to be a better way to feed.”
So he built it!
The HayBox allows owners to program multiple openings and closings a day and night — delivering the exact schedule horses need without requiring the owner to be there. Today, every HayBox is still built with the same purpose:
To make feeding easier for people — and better for horses.
Feeding Science: The Case For Constant Forage
Horses are grazing animals designed to eat small amounts of forage nearly around the clock. Their stomachs continuously produce gastric acid, whether food is present or not. Without steady orage to buffer that acid, the stomach lining can become irritated, increasing the risk of painful ulcers.
Ulcers aren’t the only concern. Inconsistent forage intake increases the risk of colic—one of the leading causes of equine death—and can trigger stress behaviors such as cribbing, stall weaving, wood chewing, and aggression. Irregular feeding patterns may also disrupt metabolism, making horses more prone to insulin resistance, obesity, and laminitis.
Veterinarians and equine nutritionists agree: horses do best when their digestive systems stay active. Frequent, timed feedings regulate acid levels, maintain gut motility, stabilize blood sugar, and promote mental calmness. Even for horses on restricted diets, controlled 24-hour access to forage supports calmer behavior, improved digestion, fewer metabolic spikes, and a reduced risk of colic, ulcers, and laminitis.
Benefits OF HAYBOX VS. Traditional Feeding
Traditional Feeding:
* Digestive Health - Long Gaps- Acid Buildup- Ulcer Risk
* Colic Risk - Fast Intake- Mobility Swings
* Behavior- Cribbing, Pawing, Wood Chewing
* Metabolism- Blood Sugar Spikes
* Owner Time- Must Feed 2-3 Times per day
* Hay Waste- Dragged, Stomped, Blown Away
* Far From Natural Grazing That Nature Intended
HayBox Controlled Slow Feeding:
* Digestive Health - Continuous Forage Buffers Acid
* Colic Risk - Slow, Steady Intake- Supports Gut Motility
* Behavior- Calm Horses, Reduced Stress
* Metabolism- Balanced Metabolism
* Hay Waste- Enclosed Feeding Reduces Waste * Owner Time- Automatically Feeds For Days or Weeks
* Supports Natural Grazing That Nature Intended Power & Construction
Power: 12-volt plug-in or solar wireless system
Build: Heavy-duty, powder-coated steel
Mobility: Forklift pockets for easy placement
Control: Programmable to open/close multiple times per day
What Size HayBox Is Right For YOU?
Mini HayBox Feeder — $4,995
• Best for 1–2 horses
• Holds 2–3 small square bales
• Ideal for stalls or individual pens
• Plug-in or solar power • Heavy-duty, powder-coated steel Dual Long HayBox Feeder — $11,995
• Best for 2–8 horses
• Holds 10–12 small bales or one 3×3×8 bale
• Dual-sided feeding — perfect between runs
• Plug-in or solar power
• Heavy-duty, powder-coated steel
Does The HayBox Actually Encourage Most Horses To Drink More Regularly?
Yes! The HayBox Feeder does seem to encourage most horses to drink more water. Because they’re eating smaller, more frequent portions throughout the day, their digestive system stays active and balanced, which naturally makes them drink more. Horses are calmer and less stressed when they eat like this, and that usually means they stay better hydrated too.
CanHayBoxActually Help My Horse Business?
Yes! For horse businesses, the HayBox has been a real asset. It acts like a controlled “mini pasture” that gives horses the benefit of grazing behavior without the risks that come from lush pastures, like laminitis or founder. Boarding barns that use HayBoxes have noticed healthier, calmer horses and happier boarders. Many owners are willing to pay more or stay longer knowing their horses are being fed this way — and the feeders also qualify as a business tax deduction since they’re considered equipment that supports horse health and management.
Coming Soon
HayBox Stall Feeder (Indoor Model) — compact footprint for barns
HayBox Panel Feeder (Large Bale Model) — feeds from large or round bales
What Do People Say About HayBox?
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
My horses have never looked better, and my hay costs are lower.
Kacy S
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Peace of mind. No matter where we are, our horses are fed.
Jessica W
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Best investment we’ve made for our horses.
Kyle H
Check out what people are saying on our Google Reviews!
Conclusion- A Smarter Way To Care For Your Horses! Order HayBox Today!HayBox isn’t just a feeder—it’s a healthier way to feed horses. Horses are built to graze around the clock, and when we honor that natural rhythm, everything improves: digestion, behavior, hydration, and overall well-being.
Less waste. Less stress. Less labor. More consistency, more savings, and more time to enjoy your horses Call Todd today and let him help you with your hay feeding chores— forever! HAYBOX automatic hay feeder installed in a horse pen by The Hay Box
What exactly is the HAYBOX Automatic Hay Feeder?
The HAYBOX is a programmable, timed forage feeder that gives horses controlled access to hay throughout the day and night instead of one or two big manual meals. A heavy-duty actuator opens and closes an automated lid on a schedule you set, dispensing hay in portions so horses graze closer to the way nature intended. The result is fewer long fasting gaps, steadier intake, and a barn chore that handles itself, rain, snow, or shine.
HAYBOX powder-coated steel automatic horse feeder product photoWho builds the HAYBOX, and where? The HAYBOX was created by Todd Libsack of Libsack Hay Farms in the Greeley, Colorado area, born from decades of hands-on experience in hay production and horse ownership. It is a "Built By a Horse Owner — For Horse Owners" product, designed by someone who lived the feeding struggle: the early mornings, the storms, and the stress of finding reliable help when plans change. That working-ranch perspective shaped every detail, from the actuator rating to the way the lid sheds precipitation.
HAYBOX automatic horse feeder outdoors in use on a Colorado propertyWhat is the HAYBOX made of, and how is it built to last? Each feeder is crafted from robust steel that is powder coated for long-term durability, with the standard finish in "Hammered Gray." Construction emphasizes safety with rounded corners, a hinged safety gate, and a safety-hinged front lid that folds back for headroom while a horse eats. A perforated floor provides airflow and drainage, and the lid is sloped to shed rain and snow. The heavy-duty actuator is rated for 330 to 450 pounds depending on the model and is built to operate down to -13°F while protected from dust and moisture.
HAYBOX Single Mini automatic hay feeder for one horse
How does the programmable feeding actually work?
You program the timer to open and close the lid multiple times per day and night on a schedule customized to your horses and your life. The timer includes backup memory so your feeding program survives a power outage, and an easy-loading door swings outward with an interior latch for quick refills. Power can be standard plug-in, and a solar panel option is available for pastures and pens without easy access to an outlet. Some models also include sled tracking so the unit can be repositioned around your property.
Why does timed forage feeding matter for equine health?
Horses evolved as trickle grazers, and long gaps between meals can raise the risk of gastric ulcers and colic, while unlimited free-choice hay can drive obesity, insulin resistance, and laminitis. By delivering controlled, timed access throughout the day, the HAYBOX slows consumption and keeps the digestive system working steadily, supporting weight management and reducing the digestive stress of feast-or-famine routines. It also cuts hay drop and waste, keeping feeding areas cleaner and ensuring each horse gets the right amount.
Which model fits your barn, and how do you order? The Single Mini (54"W × 33"D × 41"H, 500 lbs) is $4,995.00, holds three small bales or a quarter of a 3×3×8 bale, opens on one side against a fence or building, and suits a single horse. The Dual Long (117"W × 63"D × 60"H, 2,000 lbs) is $11,995.00, holds up to twelve small bales or one 3×3×8 bale, opens on both sides for runs and pen centers, and serves six to eight horses. Upgrades include a custom-color powder coat for $350 and a solar panel for $375. To order, call HayBox at (970) 573-6353 or use the "Order Yours Today!" buy-now page at thehaybox.com.
Created by Todd Libsack in Greeley, Colorado, the HayBox was born out of decades of experience in hay production and horse ownership. Todd understood the feeding struggle: the time, the routine, and the stress of finding reliable help when plans change. After too many nights running outside in a storm and rearranging life around feeding schedules, he said, "There has to be a better way to feed." So he built it. The HayBox lets owners program multiple openings and closings a day, delivering the schedule horses need without requiring the owner to be there.
Why does forage timing matter for horses?
Horses are grazing animals designed to eat small amounts of forage nearly around the clock. Their stomachs continuously produce gastric acid whether food is present or not. According to The HayBox, without steady forage to buffer that acid, the stomach lining can become irritated, which raises the risk of ulcers. Inconsistent forage intake also raises the risk of colic and can trigger stress behaviors like cribbing, weaving, wood chewing, and aggression.
What HayBox sizes are available and how much do they cost?
Mini HayBox Feeder — $4,995. Best for 1-2 horses. Holds 2-3 small square bales. Ideal for stalls or individual pens. Plug-in or solar power. Heavy-duty, powder-coated steel.
Dual Long HayBox Feeder — $11,995. Best for 2-8 horses. Holds 10-12 small bales or one 3×3×8 bale. Dual-sided feeding, perfect between runs. Plug-in or solar power. Heavy-duty, powder-coated steel.
How is the HayBox built and powered?
Power: 12-volt plug-in or solar wireless system. Build: heavy-duty, powder-coated steel. Mobility: forklift pockets for easy placement. Control: programmable to open and close multiple times per day.
Does the HayBox encourage horses to drink more?
According to The HayBox, yes — most horses on the feeder seem to drink more water. Because they're eating smaller, more frequent portions throughout the day, their digestive system stays active and balanced, which the company says naturally encourages drinking. Calmer, less-stressed horses also tend to stay better hydrated.
Can the HayBox help my horse business?
Yes. The HayBox can act like a controlled "mini pasture" — giving horses the benefit of grazing behavior without the laminitis or founder risks that come with lush pastures. Boarding barns using HayBoxes report healthier, calmer horses and happier boarders. Many owners are willing to pay more or stay longer when their horses are fed this way. The feeders also qualify as a business tax deduction as equipment supporting horse health and management.
What new HayBox models are coming?
Two more models are listed as coming soon: the HayBox Stall Feeder (Indoor Model) with a compact footprint for barns, and the HayBox Panel Feeder (Large Bale Model) for feeding from large or round bales.
How do I order The HayBox?
Call Todd directly at 970-573-6353 or email [email protected]. The HayBox is at 23981 County Road 64, Greeley, Colorado 80631.
What is the HAYBOX Automatic Hay Feeder?
The HAYBOX is a programmable steel hay feeder that gives horses controlled, timed access to forage throughout the day and night. An automated lid driven by a heavy-duty actuator opens and closes on the schedule you set, dispensing hay in portions so horses graze more naturally. It is designed to save time, reduce hay waste, and support equine digestive health.
Who created the HAYBOX and where is it made?
The HAYBOX was created by Todd Libsack of Libsack Hay Farms in the Greeley, Colorado area. It grew out of his decades of experience in hay production and horse ownership. The company describes the product as 'Built By a Horse Owner — For Horse Owners.'
How many times a day can the HAYBOX feed my horses?
You can program the timer to open and close the lid multiple times per day and night on a schedule customized for your horses and your routine. The system is built around trickle-feeding, so you can spread feedings out to mimic natural grazing. Many owners set it for several small feedings rather than one or two large meals.
What models and sizes does the HAYBOX come in?
There are two main models. The Single Mini measures 54"W × 33"D × 41"H, weighs about 500 lbs, holds three small bales or a quarter of a 3×3×8 bale, and is best for a single horse. The Dual Long measures 117"W × 63"D × 60"H, weighs about 2,000 lbs, holds up to twelve small bales or one 3×3×8 bale, and serves six to eight horses.
How much does a HAYBOX cost?
The Single Mini HayBox Feeder is priced at $4,995.00 and the Dual Long HayBox Feeder is $11,995.00. Optional upgrades include a custom-color powder coat for $350 and a solar panel for $375. For current availability and ordering, call (970) 573-6353.
What is the HAYBOX made of?
The HAYBOX is crafted from robust steel that is powder coated for durability, with the standard finish in 'Hammered Gray.' It features rounded corners, a hinged safety gate, and a perforated floor for airflow and drainage. The construction is built for long-term reliability in barn and pasture environments.
Is the HAYBOX safe for horses?
Yes. Safety is built in through rounded corners, a hinged safety gate that gives horses adequate eating space, and a safety-hinged front lid that folds back to provide headroom during feeding. The steel structure is sturdy, and the automated lid is sloped to shed rain and snow. The design reflects Todd Libsack's hands-on experience as a horse owner.
Can the HAYBOX run on solar power?
Yes. A solar panel upgrade is available for $375, which makes the feeder ideal for pastures and pens without easy access to an electrical outlet. Standard units can also run on plug-in power. The solar option lets you place feeders wherever your horses are kept.
What happens to my feeding schedule if the power goes out?
The HAYBOX's programmable timer includes backup memory, so your feeding program is preserved even during a power outage. When power returns, the feeder continues running your saved schedule. This protects your horses from missed or disrupted feedings.
How does the HAYBOX help reduce the risk of ulcers and colic?
Horses are natural trickle grazers, and long gaps between meals can increase the risk of gastric ulcers and colic. By delivering controlled, timed access to hay throughout the day and night, the HAYBOX keeps the digestive system working steadily and slows consumption. This more natural feeding pattern helps reduce the digestive stress of large, infrequent meals.
Can the HAYBOX help with weight management and laminitis-prone horses?
Yes. Free-choice hay can lead to overconsumption, obesity, insulin resistance, and laminitis, while the HAYBOX gives you portion control over how much and how often your horse eats. By regulating intake on a set schedule, it helps manage weight and supports easy keepers or metabolic horses. It is a useful tool for owners trying to balance forage access with calorie control.
Does the HAYBOX reduce hay waste?
Yes. The feeder is designed to reduce hay drop and waste by dispensing controlled portions rather than leaving a full bale exposed. This keeps feeding areas cleaner and helps ensure each horse gets the right amount of nutrition. Over time, reduced waste can offset part of the feeder's cost.
How does the actuator and lid system work?
An automated lid is powered by a heavy-duty actuator rated for roughly 330 to 450 pounds depending on the model. The actuator opens and closes the lid on your programmed schedule and is rated to operate in temperatures as low as -13°F while protected from dust and moisture. The lid is sloped to shed precipitation, keeping hay dry between feedings.
How do I load hay into the HAYBOX?
The HAYBOX has an easy-loading door that swings outward with an interior latch, so you can quickly fill it with several bales at once. Because it holds multiple bales, you can load it less often than you would feed by hand. The Single Mini holds three small bales and the Dual Long holds up to twelve small bales.
Which model is right for a single horse versus a herd?
For one horse, the Single Mini is ideal — it opens on one side to sit against a fence or building and fits individual stalls or pens. For groups, the Dual Long opens on both sides, making it well suited to run-in setups and the center of larger pens, and it serves six to eight horses. Choosing the right model comes down to herd size and where you plan to position the feeder.
How do I order a HAYBOX?
You can order directly through the 'Order Yours Today!' buy-now page at thehaybox.com or by calling HayBox at (970) 573-6353. Owners report that Todd is great to work with and communicates through every step of the order. Reaching out by phone is the best way to confirm current pricing, model availability, and shipping.
What do customers say about the HAYBOX?
Customers praise the convenience and the health benefits for their horses. One owner reported their horses are healthy with less hay loss and called the convenience 'out of this world,' adding that buyers won't be disappointed. Another said it works exactly as described, programmed it to feed twice a day, and noted it gave them the freedom of knowing their horses are fed on time even when they're away from home.