How to Choose the Right Bale Feeder for Your Farm

Choosing the right bale feeder isn’t just about price, it’s about reducing waste, saving time, and keeping your stock healthy. The right feeder for one farm might not suit another, so it’s worth matching your feeder to your stock numbers, bale type, feeding area, and paddock conditions.

Here’s a quick guide to help you pick the best bale feeder for your setup.

1. How Many Animals Are You Feeding?

The number of cattle (or sheep) you’re feeding at one time affects the size and type of feeder you’ll need.

* Up to 10 head: A smaller feeder like our Little Bale Feeder is ideal. It’s compact, easy to move, and built for lighter use.
* 10–20 head: Consider a Big Bale Feeder or Beast Bale Feeder for more feeding space and capacity.
* 20+ head or mobs: Go for a Mega Bale Feeder or Double Bale Feeder, heavy-duty, high-capacity designs built for larger herds or multiple bale types.

Tip: If you're break-feeding or shifting mobs regularly, choose a feeder with skids or one that’s easy to shift with a loader.

2. What Type of Bale Are You Feeding Out?

Different bale types need different feeder styles.

* Round bales: Most feeders will suit, but cradles and ring feeders work well to reduce trampling.
* Square bales: Look for feeders with open tops and wide sides to accommodate the bulk and shape.
* Silage bales: Go for heavy duty designs as these bales can be heavy and hard on your feeder.

Not sure? Our Big Bale Feeder handles both round and square bales, giving you flexibility year-round.

3. Are Your Paddocks Dry or Wet?

In wet, muddy paddocks, ground feeding can lead to up to 40% feed loss, that’s money wasted.

Choose a feeder that:

* Keeps the bale elevated off the ground
* Has skids or raised rails to stop it sinking
* Is hot-dip galvanised to resist corrosion

Our Mega Bale Feeder is a great option here — rugged, easy to shift, and keeps hay off the ground, even in rough winter paddocks.

 

4. Want to Save on Feed Waste?

The design of your feeder has a massive impact on how much hay ends up underfoot. Look for features like:

* Cradle bars or feed barriers: to slow down animals and prevent trampling
* Tapered troughs: that catch loose hay and stop it being lost
* Solid base or platform: to reduce mud contamination

Farmers tell us they save 20–30% in hay when they move from feeding on the ground to using a proper bale feeder, that adds up fast.

 5. Durability and Maintenance

A feeder might be cheaper upfront, but if it bends, rusts, or falls apart, it’ll cost you more long-term.

Look for:

* Fully welded frames
* Hot-dip galvanised finish
* NZ-made quality built for local conditions

Kiwi Cattle Yards feeders are built in New Zealand from heavy-duty steel and are designed to take a hiding season after season.

6. Do You Need to Move the Feeder Often?

* If you're set-stocking or feeding in one area, a heavier or fixed feeder might be fine.
* If you're shifting feeders between paddocks, look for a design with:

  * A strong frame to lift with your forks
  * Tow rings or skids
  * Lightweight build (without compromising strength)

Final Word: Get the Right Tool for the Job

Every farm is different and so is every feeding system. If you're not sure what suits your place best, get in touch with our team. We'll help you match your stock numbers, paddock layout, and bale type to the right feeder.

Ready to Choose?

Browse our full range of bale feeders here: kiwicattleyards.co.nz/bale-feeders

Got a question? Call us or send a message we’re happy to help.