Salmonella Risk in Horse Feed: Chicken Manure & Hay

Yes, hay fertilized with improperly composted chicken manure can transmit Salmonella to horses. Salmonella bacteria reside in the intestines of animals (including poultry) and are shed in feces. If fresh or inadequately composted manure is applied to fields, it can contaminate hay during harvest.

How Contamination Occurs

Proper composting (reaching 55–65°C for several days) kills Salmonella. Incomplete composting leaves viable bacteria that can survive on hay for weeks to months. Horses ingesting contaminated hay can develop salmonellosis.

Clinical Signs in Horses

• Diarrhea (often foul-smelling, watery, or bloody)
• Fever
• Lethargy, depression
• Anorexia, weight loss
• Colic signs
• Severe cases: septicemia, endotoxemia, laminitis, death

Prevention & Action

• Source hay from reputable producers who follow manure management guidelines.
• Ensure manure is fully composted before field application.
• Store hay dry and off the ground to reduce bacterial growth.
• If exposure is suspected, contact a veterinarian immediately. Early treatment (fluid therapy, antibiotics, supportive care) improves outcomes.