Pronunciation: [ˈə͡ʊt hˈe͡ɪ] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "oat hay" can be confusing as both "oat" and "hay" have unique sounds. "Oat" is pronounced as [oʊt] with a long "o" sound followed by a "t" sound. "Hay" is pronounced as [heɪ] with a long "a" sound followed by a "y" sound. When combined, the two words make the word "oat hay" pronounced as [oʊt heɪ]. Oat hay is a type of forage used to feed horses and other livestock.
Oat hay is a type of forage or feed that is derived from the oat plant, scientifically known as Avena sativa. It is primarily composed of the stems and leaves of the oat crop that have been harvested and allowed to dry.
As its name suggests, oat hay is made from oats, which are a common cereal grain cultivated for their edible seeds. However, unlike the grain itself, oat hay is not intended for human consumption but rather used as feed for livestock, particularly horses and cattle.
Oat hay is valued for its high nutritional content, as it contains essential minerals, vitamins, and carbohydrates. It is considered a good source of energy for animals, providing sustenance for their growth, reproduction, and overall maintenance. Additionally, oat hay is often preferred for its palatability, making it more appealing to animals and encouraging them to consume their required daily intake.
The production of oat hay involves cutting and drying the oat plants in the field before baling them into compact packages for storage and transport. This preservation method allows farmers and animal caretakers to have access to oat hay throughout the year, especially during periods when fresh forage availability is limited.
In summary, oat hay is a type of fodder made from the stems and leaves of the oat plant. It serves as a highly nutritious feed for livestock, particularly horses and cattle, providing them with essential nutrients and energy for their overall well-being.
The word "oat" in "oat hay" comes from the Old English word "āte", which can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "aitran". This word eventually evolved into "oat" in Middle English.
"Hay" has a different origin. It can be traced back to the Old English word "hēg", meaning "grass, pasture" which also existed in Old Norse as "heiðr". Moreover, this word ultimately derived from the Proto-Germanic word "hauhaz".
Therefore, "oat hay" refers to hay made from the grass of oats, combining the Old English and Proto-Germanic roots of the individual words.
