Hay is an essential part of your pet rabbit’s diet when it comes to keeping them healthy and happy. With so many different types available, it can be confusing for rabbit owners to know which one to choose. Each type of hay offers unique nutritional benefits that support everything from digestive health to dental care. Since rabbits naturally graze throughout the day, hay encourages natural foraging behavior, keeping them occupied and reducing boredom. Let’s explore the most common types of hay, their individual benefits, and how to select the best option for your bunny’s specific needs.
The rabbit food pyramid is designed to reflect the ideal diet for a healthy rabbit, with hay forming the foundation as the most essential component. High-quality grass hay should make up around 80-90% of a rabbit’s diet and should always be available as it is the cornerstone of their diet.
Different Types of Hay
So what exactly is hay? Plain and simple it is just dried grass. Rabbits need to consume a LOT of grass as part of their daily diet, however fresh grass is not feasible for most people making hay the next best thing. Dried grass does lose a bit of it’s beneficial vitamins and minerals in the drying process, but quick drying aka barn dried or dried grass has a bit more nutritional value.
A Quick Guide
Timothy Grass (Phleum pratense) – The most popular and high in fiber
Meadow Grass – A mix of wild grasses, providing variety.
Orchard Grass (Dactylis glomerata) – Softer than Timothy, good for picky eaters.
Oat/Bermuda – Can add variety but should not be the primary source.
Alfalfa (Medicago sativa) – A legume, richer in protein and calcium, best for young rabbits.
Botanical – Can be a variety of grasses mixed with wild forage such as flowers and herbs
Timothy
Timothy hay is a perennial bunchgrass primarily grown in temperate regions, with major production in the United States (especially in states like Idaho, Washington, and Oregon), Canada, and parts of Europe. It thrives in cool climates with well-drained soil and is commonly harvested in multiple cuts throughout the growing season.
It consists of long, thin stems with cylindrical seed heads that have a slightly fuzzy or bristly appearance. It has a green to yellowish-green color, depending on the cut and drying process. The first cut tends to be coarser with thicker stems, while later cuts are softer with more leafy content. High-quality has a fresh, grassy smell. It is a favorite among rabbit owners due to its high fiber content and balanced nutrition.
Meadow
Meadow hay is grown in natural grasslands and meadows. It thrives in temperate climates with fertile, well-drained soil. Unlike timothy hay, which is a single type of grass, meadow hay is a mix of different grasses, herbs, and wildflowers, making its composition more diverse depending on where it is harvested. It is hard to know the true protein and calcium count due to the mixing of grasses.
It has a varied texture and color, ranging from green to golden yellow, depending on the plants included and the kiln drying process. It often contains a mix of fine and coarse strands, along with seed heads and the occasional dried flower or herb. This variety provides a more natural and enriching diet for rabbits, offering different flavors and textures and can vary depending on the location and season it’s harvested. High-quality meadow hay should have a fresh, sweet aroma.
Orchard
Orchard hay is a cool season grass that is primarily grown in temperate regions. It thrives in well-drained soil, is more drought resistant and is often used as an alternative for rabbits and other small animals that may have allergies to timothy hay. It grows in clumps or tufts with a tough fibrous root.
It has a softer texture compared to timothy hay, with long, thin, and slightly curved blades of grass making it a good choice for rabbits with sensitive tummies or those with dental issues. It is typically cut from sweet grasses, often found in orchards, and it’s soft and fragrant. It is typically a vibrant green color when fresh and has a sweet, fragrant aroma that many rabbits find appealing. Orchard grass is allergy-friendly, making it a great choice for humans sensitive to hay dust.
Oat
Oat hay is grown in various regions around the world. It is typically cultivated in the same areas where oats are grown for grain production, thriving in temperate climates with well-drained soil. Farmers harvest oat hay before the plant fully matures, ensuring it retains optimal nutrition for small animals like rabbits.
It has a mix of thick, hollow stems and long, flat leaves, often accompanied by unripe oat seed heads. Its color ranges from bright green to a golden hue, depending on when it was harvested and dried. The presence of oat seed heads adds extra texture and nutrition, making it a favorite among rabbits. It has a slightly sweeter smell and softer than Timothy hay, which might make it a good option for fussy rabbits. It provides a good source of fiber that supports digestive health and can prevent obesity and digestive issues.
Bermuda
Bermuda grass (Cynodon dactylon) is commonly grown in warm, tropical, and subtropical regions due to its heat and drought tolerance. It thrives in areas with full sun and well-drained soil and is more commonly available in warmer climates like the southern United States. Bermuda hay can sometimes be harder to find in other regions.
It consists of fine, thin, wiry long strands with a soft texture. The color ranges from light green to golden, depending on the drying process. It is gentle on the digestive system. It sometimes contains small, fuzzy seed heads, though high-quality Bermuda hay is cut before it fully develops seeds
Alfalfa
Alfalfa hay is a legume hay (member of the pea family)grown in many regions worldwide, with major production in the United States (particularly in California, Arizona, Idaho, and the Midwest), Canada, and parts of Europe, Australia, and South America. It thrives in well-drained, nutrient-rich soil and is known for its ability to grow in both temperate and arid climates, thanks to its deep root system that helps it access underground water sources and it’s typically cut in its early growth stage.
It has a softer and leafier texture compared to grass hays. Characterized by its vibrant green color, delicate stems, and an abundance of small, clover-like leaves, it also produces small purple or white flowers when allowed to bloom. Alfalfa hay is richer in protein, calcium, and energy than other types of hay, making it an ideal choice for young, growing rabbits, pregnant or nursing does, but not suitable as a staple for adult rabbits due to its higher calorie and calcium content. It has a distinct fresh, sweet smell that many rabbits find appealing.
Botanical
Botanical hay is not a specific type of grass, but rather a blend of different hays, such as timothy, orchard, or meadow hay, mixed with dried herbs and flowers like chamomile, lavender, rose petals, or clover. Because it is a mix, its origin depends on where the base hay and herbs are grown. The grass hays typically come from the United States, Canada, or Europe, while the added botanicals can be sourced from various regions worldwide.
It has a varied appearance due to the mix of grasses and herbs. It usually has a combination of green and yellow hues, depending on the drying process, with noticeable bits of colorful flowers, leaves, or stems mixed throughout. The herbs and flowers give it a fragrant, aromatic smell that many rabbits find enticing which makes it a good choice for enticing picky eaters or encouraging foraging behavior.
While it provides the same fiber benefits as regular hay, the added herbs may offer additional enrichment and mild health benefits, such as digestive support or stress relief and is often used as a treat or supplement to a regular diet. Botanical hay should be used in moderation alongside other types of hay to ensure a balanced diet.
Other Hays: Grains such as wheat and barley can add variety, but shouldn’t be the primary hay source due to slightly different nutrient profiles and, in some cases, higher starch or calorie content. Bromegrass is a bunch grass high in fiber that is great for dental and intestinal health.
The Growing Process
Understanding how hay is grown, harvested, and sourced can help you choose the best quality for your pet.
Growth Cycle & Environmental Needs: Hay thrives in temperate climates with plenty of sunshine and moderate rainfall. Well-drained soil with proper nutrient content (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium) helps grasses grow tall and strong. Farmers must avoid over-fertilization, which can increase nitrate levels and make the hay unsafe for rabbits.
Harvesting: The timing of the harvest is crucial for hay quality. Grasses are harvested with a machine called a swather. It crimps the stems every 2.5-3 inches for quick evaporation of stem moisture helping the drying time. There are 3 different harvesting times referred to as first, second and third cutting.
Understanding Hay Cuttings
1st Cut Hay: Harvested early in the season (late spring). This is coarse, high in fiber, and somewhat grassy (stemmy) with seed heads. It’s good for weight control & gut motility
2nd Cut Hay: Harvested mid-season ( mid-late summer). It is softer, sweeter, and leafier than the first cut. This cut is lower in fiber and higher in protein, making it suitable for younger, growing rabbits and rabbits that need a little extra nutrition.
3rd Cut Hay: Harvested later in the season (autumn). It is very soft and leafy, lower in fiber, less fibrous and the sweetest of the cuts. Because it is higher in protein & calories as well as it’s soft texture, it is good for picky eaters, seniors, or underweight rabbits, and often given to bunnies with dental issues.
Drying & Curing: After cutting, hay is left in the field to dry naturally in the sun and air (or wind). Proper drying ensures the hay has low moisture content (below 15%) to prevent mold growth. This can take anywhere from 4-7 days.
Turning: Farmers may rake and turn the hay several times to dry it evenly. Once fully dried, hay is baled into small, medium, or large bales for storage and distribution.
Baling: The baling machine picks up the hay putting it into a compression chamber where it is packed and formed into a bale. A tying mechanism is then used to hold the bale together. The bale in turn is picked up by a self propelled wagon called a “bale wagon”.
Storage & Quality Control: Hay must be stored in a dry, well-ventilated area to prevent mold, dust, and nutrient loss. High-quality rabbit hay should be green in color (not yellow or brown), free from excessive dust, mold or a musty smell and fresh-smelling with a natural, grassy aroma.
The Nutritional Benefits
By understanding the nutritional differences, you can provide the right type of hay based on your rabbit’s age, health, and preferences, helping to ensure a long, healthy, and happy life.
Timothy
- High Fiber: Around 30-40% fiber, which aids in digestion and prevents obesity.
- Low in Protein: Typically 8-12% protein, which is ideal for adult rabbits.
- Low in Calcium: Low calcium content makes it safe for adult rabbits without the risk of kidney problems or bladder stones.
Meadow
- Moderate to High Fiber: Similar to Timothy hay, with a fiber content of around 30-40%. It helps promote good digestive health.
- Varied Nutrition: The different types of plants in meadow hay can offer a wide range of vitamins and minerals, but it can also vary depending on the specific batch.
- Low Protein and Calcium: Like Timothy hay, it’s low in protein and calcium, making it ideal for adult rabbits.
Orchard
- Moderate Fiber: It contains around 25-30% fiber, so it supports digestion but is a bit softer than Timothy hay.
- Low Protein and Calcium: Like other hays, orchard hay is low in protein and calcium, which is great for adult rabbits.
Oat
- High Fiber: Oat has a fiber content similar to Timothy, around 30-40%.
- Low Protein and Calcium: Like other grass hays, oat has a low protein and calcium profile, which is perfect for adult rabbits.
- Contains Oats: The leaves and stems of the oat plant provide healthy, fiber-rich material without the added sugar and fat that come with mature oats.
Bermuda
- Nutritional Content: Much the same as Timothy or Orchard, it is is high in fiber but with slightly lower protein and calcium levels.
- Calories: contains a moderate amount of calories
- Note: Most rabbits don’t find it as appealing as other varieties, however this can be a suitable alternative for owners with allergies due to its finer texture and lower dust content.
Alfalfa
- High Protein: Contains about 15-20% protein, which supports growth and development in young rabbits but can lead to obesity or kidney issues in adult rabbits.
- High in Calcium: Alfalfa has a higher calcium content (around 1-2%) compared to grass hays. This is beneficial for young rabbits, but can cause health issues for adults, such as bladder stones or kidney problems.
- Lower Fiber: Alfalfa is lower in fiber than other grasses, with around 25-30% fiber.
Botanical
- Moderate Fiber: Similar to meadow, botanical typically contains 25-35% fiber.
- Herbal Nutrients: The herbs in botanical hay can provide added vitamins and antioxidants, but it’s usually not a complete diet on its own.
Fiber Content: Grasses ike Timothy, Meadow, and Oat are high in fiber (30-40%) and provide essential digestive support. Alfalfa, on the other hand, has lower fiber and higher protein and calcium, which is best for young rabbits or those in special conditions.
Calcium and Protein: Alfalfa is high in both calcium and protein, making it suitable for young rabbits, pregnant does and nursing mothers, but potentially harmful to adults if fed in excess. Grasses like Timothy and Orchard are lower in both, making them ideal for adult rabbits.
Texture and Appeal: Some rabbits prefer softer hay like Orchard or Second Cut Timothy due to their mild flavors and textures, while others may prefer the coarser, more fibrous options like First Cut Timothy or Meadow.
Digestive and Dental Health
Rabbits are herbivores with a unique digestive system that requires a high-fiber diet.
Digestive Health
A rabbit’s digestive system is designed for continuous fiber intake. They have a hindgut fermentation digestive system, meaning their intestines rely on fiber and a delicate balance of gut bacteria to function properly. Without enough hay, serious health problems like GI stasis, bacterial imbalance, and intestinal blockages can occur.
Gut Movement: The rabbit’s digestive system is designed for constant movement to process food efficiently and prevent blockages. Hay is rich in insoluble fiber, which stimulates peristalsis (the wave-like muscle contractions that push food through the digestive tract). Without enough fiber, food slows down increasing the risk of GI stasis—a life-threatening condition where the digestive system shuts down.
Without enough fiber: The GI tract slows down, allowing gas to build up. Pain from gas leads to a reduced appetite, worsening the problem. Gut bacteria become imbalanced, producing harmful toxins.
Cecal Fermentation: Rabbits produce cecotropes (soft nutrient-rich droppings) that they re-ingest for essential nutrients. A diet rich in hay provides the long-strand fiber needed to maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria for healthy cecotrope production. The cecum is a specialized part of the rabbit’s gut that ferments fiber and produces the cecotropes. A proper balance ensures that “good bacteria” thrive, preventing harmful bacteria from overgrowing and causing digestive upset or enterotoxemia (a dangerous bacterial overgrowth).
Without enough fiber: Dysbiosis (imbalance of gut bacteria) can occur, leading to soft, unformed cecotropes or diarrhea. The rabbit may stop eating cecotropes, missing out on essential nutrients like B vitamins. Harmful bacteria can multiply, releasing toxins that cause severe illness.
Gas and Bloat: Hay absorbs water and helps regulate moisture content in the digestive tract. If a rabbit consumes too many processed foods (like pellets or sugary treats), the lack of fiber can lead to gas buildup. Rabbits cannot pass gas efficiently, leading to painful bloating.
Without enough fiber: Gas pockets form, causing pain and reducing appetite. Rabbits may hunch over, grind their teeth, and refuse food—signs of GI distress.
Prevents Hairblock & Trichobezoars: Rabbits naturally ingest fur while grooming (especially during shedding season), but unlike cats, they cannot vomit to expel it. Hay acts like a natural brush in the gut, pushing ingested hair through the intestines before it forms a blockage (trichobezoar).
Without enough fiber: Hair can accumulate, forming an intestinal blockage requiring emergency surgery.
Regulates Stool Formation: Hay ensures well-formed fecal pellets, which are a sign of a healthy digestive system. Rabbits produce two types of droppings: Fecal pellets (dry, round droppings) and Cecotropes (soft, nutrient-rich droppings they eat). A diet too low in fiber and high in carbohydrates can result in mushy, malformed feces or excessive, unformed cecotropes.
Without enough fiber: Soft, smelly, or clumped droppings can signal gut imbalance or cecal dysbiosis.
Dental Health
A rabbit’s teeth grow at a rate of approximately 2-3 millimeters per week. Hay is essential to rabbit dental care. It has the perfect fibrous texture to encourage prolonged chewing, ensuring that teeth remain at a healthy length and shape. Without it, dental disease can quickly develop, leading to pain, infections, and serious health complications such as malocclusion (misalignment), painful spurs, and difficulty eating.
Natural Tooth Wear: Rabbits are hypsodont animals, meaning their teeth grow continuously throughout their lives. If not properly worn down, teeth can become too long, causing painful conditions like spurs (sharp points on the molars), malocclusion (misalignment of the teeth), and even abscesses. Chewing encourages a grinding motion that naturally files the teeth down, unlike pellets or softer foods that don’t require as much chewing effort.
Molar Health: Many dental problems in rabbits start with the molars, which are located deep in the mouth and can be difficult to examine without veterinary tools. Because hay is coarse and fibrous, it forces rabbits to chew in a side-to-side motion helping in the prevention of spurs which can cut into the tongue or cheek.
Prevention of Slobbers: Overgrown teeth can cause a rabbit to drool excessively, which is often called “slobbers.” This is not only uncomfortable, but can lead to skin infections and fur matting.
Behavioral Benefits: Because chewing is a natural behavior, if a rabbit is not given enough hay, they might chew inappropriate objects, such as cage bars or furniture, which can lead to broken teeth or ingestion of harmful materials.
Choosing the Right Type
Not all hay is the same, and choosing the right type depends on your rabbit’s age, dietary needs, and health conditions. Different hays vary in fiber, protein, and calcium content, all of which play a role in maintaining digestive and overall health. That being said, whichever you choose should always be dry, fresh, fragrant and free of mold.
For Young Rabbits (Under 7 Months): Baby rabbits need extra protein (15-18%) and calcium to support rapid growth, bone development, and muscle formation. Pregnant and nursing (to boost milk nutrition) mothers should have Alfalfa also. Alfalfa is rich in calcium (1.2-1.5%) and higher in protein (15-18%), making it ideal for young rabbits, however, as rabbits approach 5-6 months old, they should transition to Timothy, Orchard, or Meadow to prevent excess calcium buildup.
For Adult Rabbits (7 Months – 5 Years): Adult rabbits require lower protein (12-14%) and calcium than babies, making Timothy the best choice. High-fiber (28-34%) keeps the gut moving and prevents GI stasis. Orchard Grass is good for picky eaters or rabbits with allergies to timothy. Meadow offers diversity in taste and texture and provides variety and enrichment, keeping rabbits interested in eating regularly. Oat hay can be a fun treat adding variety and enrichment, but should be used in moderation due to its higher starch content.
For Senior Rabbits (5+ Years): Older rabbits may experience weight loss or dental issues, making softer hays like Orchard Grass or Meadow a good choice. If a senior rabbit is losing weight, small amounts of Alfalfa can be reintroduced to provide extra protein and calories. If the rabbit has dental disease, finely chopped hay or hay cubes soaked in water may be necessary.
Rabbits with Weight Problems: Overweight rabbits need a high-fiber, low-calorie diet to increase gut motility and prevent obesity-related issues. Timothy, Orchard, and Meadow are recommended and avoiding Alfalfa. On the other hand, underweight or recovering rabbits may need more calories and protein. Alfalfa can help with weight gain but should only be used temporarily.
Sick Rabbits: Orchard Grass which is easier to chew and 2nd cut Timothy for protein are recommended.
Rabbits with Bladder Issues (Sludge or Stones): Rabbits prone to urinary sludge need lower calcium intake thus high-calcium hay like Alfalfa can contribute to bladder stone formation. Timothy, Orchard and Meadow are recommended.
Rabbits with Dental Issues (Molar Spurs, Overgrown Teeth): Soft hays such as Orchard Grass, 2nd Cut Timothy, Meadow are easier to chew for rabbits with painful teeth or misalignment issues. If a rabbit refuses to eat due to severe dental disease, consult a vet for alternative fiber sources such as Oxbow’s Critical Care or Sherwood’s Recovery.
Recommended Guidelines
Baby Rabbits & Nursing Mothers (0-6 months): Alfalfa & Timothy mix
Adult Rabbits (6 months – 5 years): Primarily Timothy, Orchard, or Meadow
Senior Rabbits (5+ years): Softer hay (Orchard, Meadow); some Alfalfa for underweight rabbits
Overweight Rabbits: High-fiber, low-calorie (1st Cut Timothy, Orchard)
Underweight or Sick Rabbits: Higher calorie (Alfalfa, 2nd or 3rd Cut Timothy)
Bladder Issues: Low-calcium (Timothy, Meadow, Orchard)
Dental Issues: Soft (Orchard, 2nd/3rd Cut Timothy)
Purchasing The Best Quality
By selecting high-quality hay, you ensure optimal digestive health, dental wear, and overall well-being for your rabbit!
Source from reliable farms, specialty rabbit hay suppliers, or high-quality pet brands.
Check freshness (green color, fresh smell, minimal dust).
Choose the right cut based on your rabbit’s age and needs.
Store properly in a cool, dry place.
Local Farms & Feed Stores: Buying from local farms ensures freshness and quality since the hay hasn’t been stored for long periods or shipped long distances. Some horse feed suppliers also carry Timothy and Orchard Grass. Ask farmers about their harvest practices, pesticide use, and storage methods. NOTE: This is not only a huge savings, but you are helping to support a small local business!
Online Rabbit-Specific Retailers: Research first to find reputable retailers. These are a few:
- Small Pet Select – Premium quality hay, direct from farms, with different cut options.
- Oxbow Animal Health – Trusted brand with Timothy, Orchard, and Organic Meadow hays.
- KMS Hayloft – High-quality hay with great customer reviews.
- Rabbit Hole Hay – Specializes in fresh hay with different cuts and packaging.
- Anderson Hay – Natural and Organic…Offers the best cut in every box
Pet Stores (Physical & Online): Most major pet stores (Petco, PetSmart, Chewy) sell Timothy and Orchard Gras. Be cautious: Big-box pet stores often stock that has been sitting in storage for a long time, reducing freshness.
Organic & Specialty Markets: Some organic farms and specialty markets sell non-GMO, pesticide-free hay, which is a great choice for rabbits with sensitivities.
Bulk Suppliers & Co-Ops: If you have multiple rabbits, buying in bulk from a farm co-op or a direct supplier can be cost-effective. Make sure it is stored properly and free from contaminants.
What To Avoid
Mold and/or damp – Can cause respiratory issues and digestive upset.
Overly yellow/brown in color – Indicates loss of nutrients and poor freshness.
Too much dust – Can lead to respiratory problems.
Pesticide-treated – Always look for organic, untreated .
Storage Tips:
- Store in a cool dry place avoiding heat and moisture. A garbage can with a loose fitting lid works well for a bale.
- Keep out of direct sunlight (which leaches vital nutrients) and away from hazardous materials.
- Check for mold, mildew before serving.
Final Thoughts…
Hay is far more than just a simple snack for your rabbit—it’s a vital part of their daily diet that promotes health and well-being. By understanding the different types and their unique benefits, you can make informed choices that help keep your rabbit in top condition. Whether you’re feeding your bunny Timothy, Meadow, or any other variety, providing fresh, high-quality hay should always be a top priority for any rabbit owner.
Sources:
- Ramnaraine, Amy “The Importance Of Hay” Rabbit.org
- Small Pet Select “Rabbit Hay Feeding” & “Choosing the Right Hay for Rabbits”
- San Diego Rabbits “All About Hay”
- Anderson, Molly “Timothy Hay vs. Orchard Grass” December 31, 2024 Anderson Hay
