Whether you’re a proud bunny parent or are considering bringing a rabbit into your family, we want to make it easy to find the right hay for your little one. From oat hay to Timothy hay to grass hay, there’s a lot to understand, and we totally know it can be overwhelming. But here, we’ll explain each type in detail, and what kind of buns they’re great for. Cue the binkies and let’s dive in.
The Perfect Bunny Diet
Before we talk about finding the right hay for your little, let’s learn more about the perfect bunny diet. Rabbits are true herbivores; they should never eat animal products (meat or dairy). Instead, your bun should be offered a diet high in fiber. Unlike dogs or cats, bunnies are constantly eating and digesting, so having a constant source of hay helps keep their digestive system moving. Lots of fiber equals a happy rabbit with a healthy tummy.
Hay should be the bulk of your rabbit’s diet (80%). You can also supplement healthy and fresh vegetables daily, pelleted food in limited quantities, and treats in moderation. If you’re feeding your rabbit fruits and veggies, make sure they’re bunny safe.
What is Timothy Hay?
Timothy is the most common hay to give buns because it’s super delicious and nutritious. Timothy hay comes in three cuttings: 1st, 2nd, and 3rd.
1st cutting Timothy hay is high in fiber and low in protein and fat, making it great for bunnies who may have tummy issues or rabbits who need to lose a little weight. 1st cutting Timothy hay is high in stem and low in leaf, making it a delicious, fiber-filled meal.
2nd cutting Timothy hay is the complete package and the “gold standard” of rabbit hay. The balanced levels of protein, fiber, and fat make it perfect for every day. Most buns go crazy for its soft leaves, stem, and taste. You simply can’t go wrong with 2nd cutting Timothy hay.
3rd cutting Timothy hay is so soft. Green, velvety, and high in leaf, it’s perfect for buns who need to gain weight because of the low fiber and high protein and fat. You can also use 3rd cutting Timothy hay to add some variation to your bunny’s diet. In nature, bunnies forage for lots of different types of hay, so avoid diet fatigue by mixing it up occasionally. Variation is a good thing.
What is Oat Hay?
Oat hay can be used daily or as a treat hay; it’s super high in fiber, protein, and fat. It has a distinct yellowish color and is more stemmy than most Timothy hay. It also still has some oats attached, which make a yummy addition to any bunny’s diet. To avoid hay boredom, mix oat hay with your rabbit’s daily diet to really make their day. Your bun will be binkying all over the house after they get a taste of our delicious oat hay.
What is Grass Hay?
Many bunny owners wonder what the difference is between grass hay and other types of hay. Most of the hay we sell (both Timothy and oat) is grass hay. Grass hay is super high in fiber and provides lots of enrichment. Rabbits should be given unlimited amounts; they’re always eating to keep their GI tract moving. Grass hay helps everything move smoothly and is the key to avoiding tummy issues (GI stasis).
Another option for rabbits is legume hay, which is higher in protein and nutrients. Understand, though, that it should only be given to baby bunnies (under a year) or nursing rabbits (because it’s so high in protein, and can make your bun gain weight). Alfalfa hay is an example. Legume hay is a good option as a treat for adult rabbits; it’s really yummy and super dense.
Other Types of Hay
Timothy and oat hay are only two options for your bun. There are others, too. Some popular choices?
- Orchard hay – Similar to 2nd cutting Timothy hay but has a slightly different smell and broader leaves. Bunnies love having some variety in their diets, and orchard hay is a really nice change.
- Gourmet hay – Want to treat your bunny to a 5-star meal? Give them some gourmet hay! We’ve loaded up several kinds of hay with sweet-smelling herbs and flowers to make it an absolutely irresistible treat.
Bunnies love hay and it’s absolutely the most important part of their diet. High-quality hay should be fragrant and free of any mold or moisture. Many big box pet stores leave their hay sitting on shelves for weeks, if not months, so make sure you take a serious look before buying to make sure you’re getting the freshest every time.
At Small Pet Select, we examine each and every box of hay we send your family because you and your pets deserve the best. Our hay is fresh, convenient, and ready to ship whenever you are. Whether you’re buying Timothy hay, oat hay, or other goodies for your bunny, we’re here to help.
