What is "feedbag"

feedbag \feedbag\, feed bag \feed bag\n. a canvas bag that is used to feed an animal (such as a horse or mule); animal feed such as oats are placed in the bag, and it is fastened at the top of the head, covering the muzzle. The animal may then eat the contents while thus wearing the feedbag.

Syn: nosebag.

alt. A horse's nosebag. n. A horse's nosebag.

n. a canvas bag that is used to feed an animal (such as a horse); covers the muzzle and fastens at the top of the head [syn: nosebag]

A feedbag, feed bag, feeding bag, nosebag, or morral, is a bag, filled with fodder, and attached to the head of a horse, enabling it to eat. The main advantages are that only a small amount of the feed is wasted, and it prevents one animal consuming the ration of another.

It can be made of leather, reeds, but more commonly is a thick fabric or light canvas. Some modern designs are made of cordura or other durable nylon, with a solid bottom and mesh sides for ventilation.

To access the portion of the feed near the bottom of the bag, the horse needs to be able to touch its head to the ground, allowing it to push its nose into the end of the bag.

When a horse uses a feedbag for the first time, offering it in a hand-held position, without strapping it on, may allow the horse to become accustomed to it. This can reduce the risk of the horse panicking. Care must be also taken to adjust the bag to ensure that the horse can breathe easily.

For extended rides, a plastic bag can be placed inside, allowing it to serve as a water bucket, with the head strap being used as the handle.

In popular US culture, the feedbag is used in the expression "strap on the old feedbag", meaning to "dine". It suggests that the diner will pay little attention to etiquette, and that the meal will be taken simply to satisfy one's hunger. The term is also used in numerous restaurant names.