When it comes to picky rabbits, hay shopping can get a bit tricky finding what hay they like! 3rd cutting Timothy hay and Orchard hay are both recommended for picky rabbits who aren’t eating enough hay. They’re generally a softer cut and easier to chew if you're a bun with less energy. So let’s talk about 3rd Cut Timothy hay Vs Orchard hay and end this decision fatigue.
Who Needs These Softer Hay Varieties?
Rabbits need to eat a lot of hay! They need a constant flow of fiber through their digestive system to keep things moving as they should and avoid blockages.
1st and 2nd Cutting Timothy hay should be tested out first with your rabbit to see if they’re happy with more fiber and roughage to help wear down their teeth.
If your bun isn’t loving their meals then you’ll want to test out some of these softer varieties and see what they think. Some rabbits who are older and have less energy may want to switch to a softer variety. And some rabbits are just picky!
Melissa W. | Review of Orchard hay
So happy I found this hay!
My babies LOVE this hay! The Orchard and Timothy hay from SPS has been a hit with my very spoiled picky eaters. I have a lion head bunny and two baby goats. After purchasing from local farm supply stores and worrying- as they didn’t seem interested in eating hay that was inconsistent and mostly stems. Also, I was tired of SO many trips to the store. SPS hay is so fresh, green, smells and just looks good, and arrives right to my house quickly (in about 2 days). It is more pricey, but my babies are happy!
3rd Cut Timothy Hay Vs Orchard Hay For Rabbits
Timothy and Orchard grass hay are both popular choices in the rabbit world. And both check off the important boxes needed to find the best free-choice hay for rabbits.
High fiber
Low fat
Low protein
Low calcium
We know the goal when it comes to rabbit nutrition is to have our buns eat as much fiber as they can. And that can be done when they have quality hay that they love to eat!
So what it really comes down to is what does your rabbit think? Which hay gets them to kick up their feet?
Let them decide!
For a limited time, we’re offering a special deal to new customers: a 15% discount on our Sampler Box, which includes both 3rd cutting and Orchard Hay as well as Oat and 2nd cutting, too! Rather than playing the guessing game for the next couple of months, you can let your furry friend try four different types of premium quality hay all at once!
To take advantage of this offer, simply click here and enter the promo code SAMPLER at checkout. Don’t forget, this discount is only available for new customers, so don’t miss out on the chance to give your small pet the best possible care!
Maria P. | Review of 3rd Cutting Timothy Hay
Best 3rd cut Timothy Hay!
My picky buns have been fed the 3rd cut Timothy hay from SPS for years. As always, SPS never disappoints them. At night they poop and sit in their litter box for long times enjoying their hay, the green and fresh hay. One bun has teeth issues and is maintained by the vet, and the 3rd cut is just perfect. The other bun can chew fine and loves this cut too. Customer service is exceptional. Shipping is fast and packaging is good, too. Their thank you cards are always cute with bunnies pics. I highly recommend this great quality hay!
Nutrients
Orchard hay is surprisingly similar to Timothy hay when it comes to the nutrients your bun is getting. Both work great for getting your bun a great amount of fiber and protein. Orchard hay has a little bit more protein than Timothy hay, but both have a good ratio of calcium and phosphorus for rabbits.
Texture
3rd cutting Timothy hay and Orchard grass are both known for being a softer variety compared to the earlier cuts of Timothy hay. This is why it’s recommended for rabbits who don’t eat enough of the earlier cuttings or who don’t have the energy to chew up more fibrous hay.
They have a larger amount of leaves and fewer stems than 1st and 2nd cutting Timothy hay.
Taste
Orchard hay usually has a sweeter taste than Timothy hay. While also giving off a stronger aroma. It knows how to get the rabbit’s attention!
The Allergy-Friendly Choice
Orchard hay is harvested earlier than Timothy hay which gives it fewer flower heads. Flower heads are where all the pollen is! So, orchard hay is less likely to bother people with allergies.
Many rabbit parents with Timothy hay allergies find that Orchard hay makes them feel much better and their rabbit loves it!
Although most of the flower heads are included with 1st cutting Timothy hay. So some people find they do okay with the 3rd cutting!
How To Store Hay To Keep It Fresh
Hay needs to be stored properly in order to maintain its nutrient profile and avoid damage.
The best place to store hay is in a dark, dry place. Sunlight can damage hay and excess moisture can lead to mold and bacteria growth.
Good ventilation helps keep the hay fresh and dry as well! You definitely don’t want to store your hay in a humid stuffy garage.
3rd Cut Timothy Hay Vs Orchard Hay: Don’t Stress
This is one of those choices that shouldn’t be hard to make at all. Because you really can’t go wrong! Grab yourself a sampler box to check and see what your bun has to say about the matter. When you only offer the best choices then you know you’ll end up with a winner.
Binkie into the hay pile buns!
We are not veterinarians, and none of our information should be construed as veterinary advice.
Before adding any new product, please consult your exotic veterinarian. If your pet is acting unwell and you have concerns for their well being, please contact your vet immediately.
