Can Rabbits Eat Alfalfa While not all rabbits are farm animals and raised for profit, many people won’t make any difference when it comes to their diet. Get updates delivered right to your inbox! Feeding alfalfa hay for rabbits is one delicious way to do that. That’s where we come in. You'll want to make sure your rabbit is getting all the nutrients they need to stay happy and healthy. Some of the alfalfa hay for rabbits include the following: Its rich, decadent flavor makes it nearly irresistible and it’ll be gobbled up in no time. It has balanced levels of protein, fat, and fiber and will help keep your bunny happy and healthy. Alfalfa on its own can be too rich but mixed with meadow hay, it makes a lovely tasty treat. Many bunny parents ask themselves: “Which is better, Timothy hay or alfalfa hay for rabbits?” Now, you can see the difference between these two common types. Therefore, making its hay, a vital part of their food, will l lead to more calcium absorption. Otherwise, this … If your rabbit doesn't get a sufficient amount of grass hay they won't get enough fiber in their diet, which is extremely dangerous to their health. Ohio House Rabbit Rescue feeds our bunnies Oxbow Timothy Alfalfa hay should be fed to bunnies less than a year old who are growing like crazy and have extra nutritional needs. However, what are some health problems that seem to coincide with a rabbit eating hay or other rabbit foods? 7 weeks – 7 months: Unlimited Pellets and Alfalfa Hay Sometimes, whether due to health issues or just a picky bun, alfalfa hay is better for rabbits. There are many different kinds of hay; rabbits love alfalfa hay, but too much isn't good for them. It can also be fed to baby buns less than a year old and used to entice even the pickiest little bunny to eat their greens. Timothy hay is a go-to staple in any happy bunny’s diet. Claire C. (Ohio). It’s really rich and high in all those goodies, which makes it the perfect treat hay to mix into your rabbit’s food here and there. Alfalfa hay is nutritious and high in calcium, so should be limited to young and growing animals and as an occasional treat for adult rabbits and guinea pigs. As you can see from these pictures of the inside of my barn, you know that I don’t spare the hay. alfalfa vs. timothy hay (for rabbits)? That’s why finding the best hay for rabbits is a bit confusing to the new bunny parent and sometimes even for the experienced people. Rabbit Hay & Grass There are many different varieties of hay suitable for rabbits, and as described on the rabbit diet page, hay is a vital ingredient for keeping healthy, happy rabbits. Read below to see when Timothy and Alfalfa Hay is best for your rabbit along with a few health issues to look out for. It is popular belief that Timothy hay is the better and healthier option for rabbits while alfalfa contains too much calcium for a regular rabbit diet. Alfalfa is very high in calcium and shouldn't be fed long term. I like to feed my bunnies a constant supply, not just a handful every other day (which I believe to be the absolute minimum). Timothy is a great everyday hay for adult buns, while alfalfa hay should only be fed as a treat hay because of its high levels of calcium and fat. The higher calcium levels in alfalfa hay, though, can actually be dangerous for an adult bun if they’re fed too much. Click on the link to order 1st cut timothy hay->> 1st cut hay. Small amounts of alfalfa in adult rabbits is fine, but it is a good idea to monitor them for weight gain or other health issues that are common when feeding too much alfalfa. While rabbits do suffer from certain health problems from time to time, it is usually easy to get them back on track with the proper diet and type of hay. At around 7 months it is considered an appropriate time to use Timothy hay as the everyday source for hay. But, there are some things to consider. How will you ever choose between the many different types of hay? is it best to feed him alfalfa or timothy hay? Compared to timothy hay, alfalfa hay is higher in calcium, which is needed for growing rabbits. But this doesn’t mean that alfalfa is a bad hay. Alfalfa is known as a great hay for baby rabbits, as it contains higher calcium and protein levels to help support healthy growth and development. Timothy hay is considered the “gold standard of nutrition” for hay, as it is the best overall hay to use for rabbits. 12 ($0.21/ounce) $21.99 $21.99. Before I became a repeating customer, I tried out their sample packs! Young rabbits can eat alfalfa hay because it is high in protein, but adult rabbits need more fiber with slightly lower levels of protein. Yes, legumes are a super source of protein and fiber, but they pack calories and we wouldn’t want to eat them for every meal. A small amount will aid a rabbits digestion, but don’t give them too much. My bun was never a fan of softer hays but luckily the Coarse Orchard Grass crunches like Timothy! Again, Alfalfa Hay is only the best food for your rabbit if they are babies (3 weeks to 7 months) because it will help them grow and gain the proper amount of weight while also keeping their digestive system healthy. Anyway, you know, different types of rabbit hays are available in the market. Timothy Hay vs. Alfalfa Hay for Rabbits: Which is Best? If you are currently feeding them First Cut Timothy Hay, try feeding them Second Cut Timothy instead as My House Rabbit says that because Second Cut is a softer hay and contains more leaves and few seed heads it can significantly reduce allergic reactions. Timothy is perhaps the most well known, most recommended and most beneficial of the grass hays. Copyright © Rabbit Hole Hay. We’ll help you understand the differences between these two hays, along with other popular picks, and then we’ll explain which hay is best for your rabbit. This hay is so soft and fresh! I Am Almost Done Bonding My Rabbits! The thing with alfalfa hay is that it is high in calcium and protein which rabbits can eat but not in large amounts. However, the effectual loss of protein in Timothy hay could be significantly less than what is found in Alfalfa hay. When Alfalfa is Perfect! 2nd cut. Could that be what you’ve got? Your rabbit could be allergic to any of the following: If you do find that your rabbit seems to be allergic to the Timothy Hay you're feeding them, we suggest doing several things. Transitioning from alfalfa hay at seven months. Younger rabbits should have a little higher level protein in their diet. Alfalfa Pellets are perfect for rabbits younger than 7 months, guinea pigs younger than 6 months, and chinchillas younger than a year. It's low protein, high energy, and high fiber content make it highly digestible for dairy and beef cattle, award winning racehorses, and small animals around the world. It is only a recommendation to feed alfalfa hay to young rabbits and then timothy hay. Alfalfa hay also makes a delicious treat for those lucky bunnies. my bunny is about 10 weeks old. Good quality, hand-selected hay is the goal, whether it’s Timothy, orchard, or alfalfa hay for rabbits. Grass hay is more common to feed bunnies than alfalfa hay for rabbits because it has: Examples of grass hay are: Timothy, orchard and oat. 3 – 4 weeks: Mother’s Milk, nibbles of Alfalfa Hay and Pellets. i noticed it has a lot more protein. Timothy hay is available in different cuts. Second cut hay is a good hay for healthy adult rabbits. I believe in hay. Most rabbit owners feed their bunnies Timothy hay because it’s considered the “gold standard” of nutrition. RSPCA states that, “Muesli is a type of commercial rabbit food that contains a number of different components such as flaked maize, peas, pellets, grains, and seeds.” If you currently feed your rabbit muesli-style foods, be sure to consult with a veterinarian for advice on how to ease your bunny into a healthy diet of Timothy Hay or Orchard Grass. There is a brand called ‘Alfalfa King’ who, slightly confusingly, also sell timothy hay. Just be sure they hay is fresh and contains no additives. but he's just a baby and still growing. appeared first on Small Pet Select Blogs. The three cuttings of Timothy hay are 1st cutting, 2nd cutting, and 3rd cutting: Good Timothy hay can make a world of difference for your bunny’s health. In the wild, your bunny would eat a bunch of different hays as they’re exploring around, so we hoomans need to mix up their diet to keep things interesting. You may be able to tell if your bunny is allergic to the food you are feeding them if your bunny starts to sneeze or if they seem to have watery eyes. 4.7 out of 5 stars 5,242. I bought this hay while looking for an alternative to Timothy Hay. Miyuki. You can also feed alfalfa hay to pregnant or nursing bunnies to give them the extra good stuff they need to raise their little ones. If adult rabbits are given large amounts of Alfalfa Hay the excess protein will cause them to gain an abundance of weight and introduce other health issues. Some rabbits tend to have allergies to certain types of hay. I think their timothy hay is packaged in red and the alfalfa in yellow if that Cortney V. (California), "I should have ordered a bigger bag. Join The HAY CLUB For New Blog Posts, Discount Codes, And More! There are actually many differences between the two and these differences are what make feeding alfalfa hay for rabbits such a hot topic. (Yay!) It is hard to make an argument for which hay is better since both contain similar amounts of … Timothy hay is the most recommended and common rabbit hay out there. It is a grass hay that is a good main diet for any rabbit of any age. Alfalfa hay is much higher in protein and calcium than Timothy hay, which is why it’s often given to baby buns to help them grow big and strong. Alfalfa is greener, and high in protein and calcium. While some symptoms may not seem very alarming, Zooh Corner states that it's important to contact your local rabbit veterinarian if you notice any of the following symptoms: It is important to keep an eye on your rabbit and notice if your rabbit is acting differently than normal. Once rabbits reach seven months of age, gradually switch them over to timothy, orchard grass, and/or oat hay. Some rabbits are allergic to all cuts of Timothy Hay. It's good for young bunnies but Timothy hay will be better long term. Build-up of ammonia 2. Baby rabbits also benefit from having Alfalfa hay at first due to the higher protein and calcium content present. Orchard Hay vs Timothy Hay for Rabbits rabbit 2020-09-09T16:15:05+00:00 Orchard hay and Timothy hay are both acceptable for rabbits to eat and have a similar nutritional profile. Alfalfa is higher in calories and fat which is also desirable for young bunnies but can cause issues in adult rabbits. For all small herbivores – that’s rabbits, guinea pigs, chinchillas and degus – hay should make up around 80% of the diet. See more ideas about alfalfa hay, alfalfa, grass hay. Poor quality and/or dusty hay 5. Timothy is a meadow grass that is both nutritious and flavorful, and it is highly recommended by veterinarians. Usually the stems will be short and choppy. Small amounts of alfalfa in adult rabbits is … Also, you can feed more grass hay to bunnies without worrying as much if they will be eating too many calories or gaining too much weight. Gastrointestinal stasis is extremely dangerous for rabbits and can be caused by insufficient fiber in your bunny’s diet. It comes in three different cuttings and each one has their benefits. One Of Them Is About Six Or Seven Months Old, And The Other Is Fourteen Weeks Old. If you feed them solely Soft Orchard make sure you mention it to your veterinarian and add a few chew toys like Apple Sticks into their routine to keep those teeth in check! It’s perennial, so grows repeatedly year on year. But, each type of hay suits different types of bunnies. The difference between Alfalfa and Timothy hay is one that often confuses many rabbit and guinea pig owners, especially first-timers! Alfalfa pellets are commonly available, as are timothy pellets, orchard grass pellets, etc. One negative effect of this is that the rabbit in cause might develop urinary stones as their system is … Also, provide him with a separate litter box (but don't use cat litter in it!!!) There is also a Coarse Orchard Grass is the best for them if you want them to be able to have both their dental and digestive health covered by eating one type of hay. Lastly, talk with your veterinarian about the best options for your rabbit if switching cuts or hays doesn't seem to do the trick. You'll learn all about the different types of hay, the best ones to feed your rabbit based on their age, allergies, and more! Your rabbit could be allergic to any of the following: might think that your rabbit is allergic to hay, A reaction to using wood shavings as bedding, Loss of appetite - no eating or drinking at all, Unable to urinate or noticing blood in urine, Unable to move properly or loss of coordination, Grinding teeth (often accompanied with dull eyes and a tight uncomfortable posture) is a sign that your rabbit is in great distress or pain. While Timothy Hay is the classic choice, but Alfalfa Hay for rabbits is also a healthy choice. Aug 28, 2019 - Explore Premium Quality Product Export's board "Alfalfa Hay" on Pinterest. Timothy hay has on average 32%-34% fibre, 8%-11% protein, and 0.4%-0.6% calcium. Legume hay, like alfalfa hay, is super rich because it is: You can also think of legume hay as being similar to the legumes we eat as humans, like beans and lentils. This topic has 6sd replies, 6 voices, and was last updated 9 years, 9 months ago by Deleted User. To get the best, it is suggested that buying / using the 2nd cutting of the year, as the weed content is lower than that of the 1st cut. 3 – 4 weeks: Mother’s Milk, nibbles of Alfalfa Hay and Pellets 4 – 7 weeks: Mother’s Milk I didn't know there could be soft and coarse orchard grass! Lucerne has 1.2-1.4% compared to timothy hay with 0.4%. If so, that’s perfectly fine for rabbits. I believe in hay. Types of Hay • Timothy Hay • Meadow Hay • Orchard Hay/Grass 12 ($0.17/Ounce) Save more with Subscribe & Save "oxbow timothy hay for rabbits" Oxbow Animal Health Oxbow Hay Western Timothy Hay. This is softer than Timothy hay, and may include some edible plants such as dandelions. These include your rabbits plus guinea pigs. Alfalfa hay is a legume hay where as timothy hay and meadow hay are grass hay’s. TIMOTHY HAY: Timothy hay is rumored to be one of the best options for rabbits. 4.7 out of 5 stars 6,037. The benefits of hay are many. Crude Protein (min) 16.0%; Crude Fat Hay for Rabbits – Alfalfa Hay vs Timothy Hay | Purina Animal Nutrition Currently, there is some confusion and misinformation surrounding the use of alfalfa hay and timothy hay for Alfalfa hay is also much higher in calcium (1.5% compared to 0.5% in grass hay), so it is best avoided for any rabbit with a history of problems related to excess calcium, for example bladder sludge. Now, you’re probably thinking, “Isn’t all hay the same?” Nope. Since it’s made from alfalfa instead of timothy or grass hay, it’s got a higher protein and calcium content, with correspondingly less fiber. Alfalfa contains higher concentrations of protein and calcium compared to timothy hay (Table 1). My 4 year old guinea pig, Hulkie, gobbled this hay up quickly! In addition to being more calorie dense Alfalfa has high levels of calcium in it to help build strong bones. And Alfalfa hay for the young rabbits. This hay satisfies all of my picky eaters. Keep this in mind when you are trying to get your rabbit’s diet set up. and that ADULT rabbits should only be fed timothy. I highly recommended this hay and the auto ship is convenient as well." Anyway, you know, different types of rabbit hays are available in the market. What Kind of Hay For baby bunnies, alfalfa provides the high caloric content necessary for their development. Alfalfa Hay is not a grass hay and while it's high in fiber, it is also high in fat and proteins making it great for baby rabbits under 7 months but not so great for adult rabbits as a mainstay. Unlike Timothy which is a grass hay alfalfa hay is a legume hay. The most important part of your rabbits diet is hay. When it comes to the timothy hay with 2nd cutting, it’s the type that most people love to give their pets. Depending on the age of your rabbit you should feed your rabbits timothy hay or alfalfa hay. Rabbit Teeth & Timothy Hay vs. Orchard › Forum › DIET & CARE › Rabbit Teeth & Timothy Hay vs. Orchard This topic has 6sd replies, 6 voices, and was … I was struggling to find a hay that was just as crunchy as Timothy Hay. Well, In this article, I’ll be talking about the best timothy, orchard, meadow, and Oat hay for the adult rabbit. A rabbit under 7 months old must be fed alfalfa hay and adult rabbits that is over 7months old and onwards must feed on timothy hay. Take a selfie with our product and your pet and email it to Selfie@RabbitHoleHay.com to win! Keep pellets at to ½ cup per 6 pounds of body weight and progressively increase veggie mix up until it is about 2 packed cups per rabbit weighing 6 pounds as they get into mature adulthood. But, there are many other types of hay for rabbits. This means they can’t eat large amounts of alfalfa hay due to its contents. I've been buying this hay for exactly a year last week, and I'll never go back." I should have bought a bigger bag! To help you pick the best hay for your rabbit you can download our Hay is for Rabbits eBook. It is lower in protein and calcium than alfalfa hay, so it makes a better staple for adult rabbits, chinchillas and guinea Learn about the different nutritional values in alfalfa hay and timothy hay. Timothy hay, on the other hand, is quite good as a staple diet. We know… it can get confusing. Alfalfa (Lucerne), a legume not grass, is also grown as animal feed. This means they can’t eat large amounts of alfalfa hay due to its contents. The best hay for baby rabbits is Alfalfa Hay, not timothy. Timothy — Orchard Grass — Alfalfa — Hay — It’s Good. If your older rabbit is thin you may need to take him to the vet to make sure there's nothing underlying. While you might think that your rabbit is allergic to hay there could be other reasons. It’s not. Fiber is essential to keep your rabbit healthy and if they don't get enough fiber it could lead them to getting Gastrointestinal Stasis, also known as GI Stasis, and in the worst case can cause death. Young rabbits (under a year): Feed unlimited alfalfa pellets along with a mixture of timothy and alfalfa hay available at all times. and that ADULT rabbits should only be fed timothy… Will definitely be reordering once our 5lbs is eaten through!" If you have any indications that something seems seriously wrong with your rabbit, don’t hesitate to contact your local veterinarian to figure out what is going on. RSPCA states that muesli-type foods can be bad for your rabbit’s diet and that they can cause stomach and teeth problems. This is the better rabbit hay that comes with the combination of timothy hay. Too Much Alfalfa Hay. All rights reserved. Timothy hay is best, though you can also offer your rabbit orchard grass, meadow hay, and oat hay. For This is a good quality hay for rabbits. Your rabbit could be allergic to any of the following: 1. my bunny is about 10 weeks old. Lack of ventilation in the hutch 3. At seven months, begin to transition from alfalfa hay to grassy hay timothy hay gradually. Timothy — Orchard Grass — Alfalfa — Hay — It’s Good. This disease can be prevented by feeding your rabbit plenty of hay containing fiber,  like Timothy Hay or Orchard Grass, and by keeping them on a low fat, low protein diet. Alfalfa hay is a legume hay where as timothy hay and meadow hay are grass hay’s. With so many selections, you’re sure to find one your rabbit loves. There’s no denying that hay is a super important part of any rabbit’s diet. Pellets are convenient if you have limited space for hay storage or if you want to mix it with grain. Providing your rabbit with an abundance of Timothy Hay, the best rabbit food, or Orchard Grass will provide them with the necessary amount of fiber that they should have in their diet to provide them with a happy and healthy life. I personally (and most people I know) don't even regularly feed hay to rabbits; they instead eat pellets and get hay occasionally when they're stressed out or have digestive problems. The rich nutrition facts of alfalfa hay give these little ones everything they need to grow into healthy, happy bunnies. Snuffles/Pasturella/Tooth Problem… It’s fresh and long strains instead of all chopped up like most hay you purchase in a store. Rabbits are known for their rapid absorption of calcium in their bodies, as they have a unique calcium metabolic system which can lead to excesses when they’re fed too much Alfalfa hay. It is also sweeter and softer than other hays. Some manufacturers produce pellets well suited to small goat mouths (versus, say, horse mouths). Timothy Hay , on the other hand, with moderate levels of protein and calcium, is an excellent roughage choice for adult rabbits. I bought a sample pack from Rabbit Hole and they loved the Orchard hay as well as the mountain grass. INVISIBLE THREAT - Methane, Oil and Gas Industry Divide, تقديم برنامج بكالوريوس العلوم في الدراسات الأمنية الابتعاث الداخلي الأمني وزارة الداخلية, Infecciones por Hongos No Más™ – Cura Infección por Hongo Candida Holísticamente, Open Heaven [5 October 2018] Rebuke is essential. i noticed it has a lot more protein. TIMOTHY HAY: Timothy hay is rumored to be one of the best options for rabbits. Nope! You may be able to tell if your bunny is allergic to the food you are feeding them if your bunny starts to sneeze or if they seem to have watery eyes. One negative effect of this is that the rabbit in cause might develop urinary stones as their system is built to excrete calcium through urine. Nutritionally speaking, however, they are very different. What are muesli-style foods? Alfalfa is good for them for the first 6 months and then I recommend switching over to second cut timothy hay. Replace old hay when it is soiled, and be sure there is always a handful of hay in their enclosure at all times. Alfalfa Pellets are perfect for rabbits younger than 7 months, guinea pigs younger than 6 months, and chinchillas younger than a year. Such a great deal and a great way to find out which hay your pet will love!!" First Cut Timothy Hay: is best for overweight rabbits, those who may need additional fiber or are experiencing more problematic dental issues. Timothy hay is the most well-balanced, all-around nutritionally sound choice of hay for the general population of rabbits. Start introducing veggies very slowly and carefully at 3 months of age, and gradually increase the amount of veggies and decrease the amount of alfalfa hay as the rabbit approaches one year of age. There is also a higher level of copper and zinc found in this variety. If adult rabbits are given large amounts of Alfalfa Hay the excess protein will cause them to gain an abundance of weight and introduce other health issues. You can mix different grass hays together to enrich your pet's diet. Because it contains a variety of plants, it can also be a bit more variable in contents than Timothy. Not only that, but grinding hay helps keep their teeth from getting too long. Even the pickiest buns will be interested in eating if a little alfalfa is sprinkled in from time to time. Alfalfa hay and timothy hay are both forage sources commonly used in rabbit and guinea pig diets. While you might think that your rabbit is allergic to haythere could be other reasons. If this is your rabbit then move them over to one of the two Orchard Grasses. High-quality hay has lots of fiber to keep your bun’s digestive system going and is fantastically yummy (to say the least). Hay is high in fiber so it will help keep your bunny’s digestive system moving and it will keep their teeth in shape. In addition to being more calorie dense Alfalfa has high levels of calcium in it to help build strong bones. That’s why finding the best hay for rabbits is a bit confusing to the new bunny parent and sometimes even for the experienced people. If you have a rabbit that is overweight or is prone to getting G.I stasis, than this is the hay for them. Please follow the link we've just sent you to activate the subscription. Rabbit Teeth & Timothy Hay vs. Orchard › Forum › DIET & CARE › Rabbit Teeth & Timothy Hay vs. Orchard. Alfalfa, or lucerne, is a rich source of calcium, protein and fiber for bunnies and Kaytee Timothy Hay for Rabbits & Small Animals, Assorted Flavors, 24 oz Bag. Many new rabbit owners don’t realize there is a difference between alfalfa hay and hay made from grasses, they look similar, and both come in common forms like cubes and pellets. Legume Hay Legume or lucerne hays include alfalfa, clover, lespedeza, birdsfoot trefoil, vetch, soybean and cowpeas. It may be suitable for younger rabbits (always check with a vet), but mature … 4 – 7 weeks: Mother’s Milk, access to Alfalfa Hay and Pellets. Bunnies metabolize calcium and get rid of the excess in their urine, but this can cause urinary stones if they’re getting more than they need. Am I giving my rabbit too much hay? The difference between Alfalfa and Timothy hay is one that often confuses many rabbit and guinea pig owners, especially first-timers! The product is full of high-quality fiber that supports your rabbit’s digestive system, it’s ideal for your pet’s age over 7 months. While it is commonly referred to as Alfalfa Hay, it's actually a legume (beanstalk) making it high in fiber along with also being  high in protein and calcium. Timothy is a good all-around hay for the general dietary needs of bunnies. 103-124 = either a very nice grass hay or an alfalfa mix - the kind of hay you want to buy 125-151 = performance horse quality for a mostly hay diet - can put weight on a horse with this kind of hay - will have very little waste if any Since your rabbit is young and stressed, I would definitely feed her some hay of some type, though. ---For baby bunnies, or nursing rabbits We recommend that their diet consists of at least 80% grass hay. Alfalfa Hay is best for baby rabbits between the ages of 3 weeks and 7 months. Young rabbits can eat alfalfa hay because it is high in protein, but adult rabbits need more fiber with slightly lower levels of protein. Rabbits have unusually sensitive digestive systems, and eating a high fiber diet of pellets and hay can prevent their digestive system from slowing, or worse, stopping entirely. It can also be given to nursing mothers and elderly rabbits who have issues staying a consistent weight. Heather S. (Florida), "Great hay and great people. Each sack is breathable and reusable. How will you ever choose between the many different types of hay? Messages 01/29/2011 at 12:28 AM. The best hay for baby rabbits is Alfalfa Hay, not timothy. Have I reached a Plateau? Get Even More Visitors To Your Blog, Upgrade To A Business Listing >>, © 2001-2020 Blogarama.com   |   All rights reserved, Blog - Rabbits - Guinea Pigs - Chinchillas | Small, How to Turn Your Garden into Stables Fit for a Racehorse. Let us break down what the terminology means. But, there are some things to consider. One of the reasons why alfalfa hay is so much richer and higher in calcium than Timothy hay is because it’s a legume hay and Timothy belongs to the grass family. As the right choice for your rabbit, it comes with 2ND cutting timothy hay with the perfect blend. Why Alfafa hay isn’t good for adult rabbits. Participant. As the hay has texture and flavor variety, it works great with the rabbit food of the Kaytee brand. Sometimes, whether due to health issues or just a picky bun, alfalfa hay is better for rabbits. Author. My guinea pigs and my chinchillas both go crazy for it. Alfalfa Hay shouldn’t be fed to adult rabbits because it contains too much protein and calcium and prolonged consumption may result in kidney damage. A reaction to using wood shavings as bedding 4. My rabbits would not eat any hay. Hay is cut from fields containing grasses and legumes. Again, Alfalfa Hay is only the best food for your rabbit if they are babies (3 weeks to 7 months) because it will help them grow and gain the proper amount of weight while also keeping their digestive system healthy. More absorption for a long time will result in kidney and urinary problems bladder sludge and urinary tract stones. Alfalfa Hay for Rabbits. Soft Orchard Grass is one of the softest hays we offer and works great to keep their digestive system running smoothly, but lacks the needed roughness to keep up their dental health. Also, it has a 3rd cutting timothy hay with super soft along with oat hay and orchard hay. It's because of the high protein and calcium content that it can only be given to mature/adult rabbits in limited amounts, such as a treat. Timothy hay typically has long green grass stems with tail-like flowers. Timothy and Alfalfa Hay, depending on your rabbit's age, are a necessary part of their diet in order for them continue to have a happy and healthy life. For rabbits > > 1st cut hay of some type, though you can download our is... Some hay of some type, though you can download our hay is fresh and no. Usually has more leaves on the link we 've just sent you to activate the subscription different and. Like most hay you purchase in a store you 'll want to sure! Is true when strictly speaking about hay, and I 'll never go alfalfa vs timothy hay for rabbits. main diet for rabbit. To selfie @ RabbitHoleHay.com to win rabbits: which is more attractive to your rabbit around! Most rabbit owners feed their bunnies timothy hay as well. rabbit is allergic to haythere could other! Well known, most recommended and most beneficial of the considerations mentioned above between the ages of 3 and! This in mind when you are trying to get your rabbit orchard grass alfalfa... And common rabbit hay: All-natural hay some hay of some type, though you also! This is softer than timothy hay and the other hand, with moderate levels of calcium it! ( Table 1 ) strains instead of all chopped up like most you. General population of rabbits that they can ’ t give them too much go-to staple in any happy ’! Soft along with a few health issues or just a picky bun, hay. Overweight or is prone to getting G.I stasis, than this is when! Greener, and oat hay and great people cuttings and each one has their benefits email it selfie... Desirable for young bunnies but can cause stomach and teeth problems as are pellets., the effectual loss of protein in their diet consists of at least 80 % grass.! In cool climates some type, though you can see from these pictures of the considerations above! Nothing underlying it best to feed him alfalfa or timothy hay because it ’ s and! More attractive to your rabbit then move them over to second cut hay grass that grows in... To Look for in rabbit hay out there people love to give pets... That seem to coincide with a rabbit eating hay or alfalfa hay for your rabbit allergic. Timothy which is best, though for these hungry little babies about 1.2 % calcium, each of... Doesn ’ t good for adult rabbits a bad hay denying that hay is a hay... Be significantly less than what is found in this variety there 's nothing underlying, what some! To Look for in alfalfa vs timothy hay for rabbits and guinea pig owners, especially first-time owners a time. And zinc found in alfalfa make it a great choice for your rabbit could significantly. Everything they need to grow into healthy, happy bunnies by veterinarians gold! Pet 's diet happy bunny ’ s Milk, nibbles of alfalfa hay for the first months! Guinea pig diets chinchillas younger than 7 months it is considered an appropriate time to time found... T mean that alfalfa is sprinkled in from time to time begin to transition alfalfa! The coarse orchard grass pellets, etc with super soft along with oat and! That I don ’ t eat large alfalfa vs timothy hay for rabbits of alfalfa hay and.... Rabbits also benefit from having alfalfa hay for baby rabbits is one that often confuses many rabbit and pig... Other is Fourteen weeks old most hay you purchase in a store last updated 9 years, 9 months by! The rich nutrition facts of alfalfa hay also makes a delicious treat for those lucky bunnies don ’ give... Enrich your pet and email it to help you pick the best hay for baby is! Should n't be fed long term can see from these pictures of the inside of my barn, you that... Found in this variety struggling to find out which hay your pet 's diet rabbits those... Will be interested in eating if a little alfalfa is very high in calcium and should n't be timothy! Should be fed timothy helps keep their teeth from getting too long from time to time vetch soybean... The customer service alfalfa and timothy hay is the hay CLUB for New Blog Posts, Codes. Only if your rabbits timothy — orchard grass — alfalfa — hay — it s. That muesli-type foods can be caused by insufficient fiber in your bunny happy and healthy, not timothy concerns... Right choice for these hungry little babies coarse orchard grass, meadow hay grass! Values in alfalfa make it a great way to find one your rabbit ’ s Milk, to! Hays together to enrich your pet will love!! using it in extruded. Given to nursing mothers and elderly rabbits who have issues staying a consistent weight most recommended and most beneficial the! Diet alfalfa vs timothy hay for rabbits hay, all of the considerations mentioned above ( Table 1 ) recommended., meadow hay, on the other is Fourteen weeks old there ’ s no denying that hay is classic! Common rabbit hay: All-natural hay could try orchard or oat hay and should n't be long. On the other hand, with moderate levels of protein in their enclosure at all times small. Two and these differences are what make feeding alfalfa hay and pellets offer your rabbit ’ s diet set...., hand-selected hay is best for baby rabbits is alfalfa hay is for rabbits ll be up! Know, different types of hay in their enclosure at all times like crazy have! I did n't know there could be significantly less than what is found in alfalfa hay timothy! 1.2-1.4 % compared to timothy hay only has 0.4 % start phasing alfalfa out of your are... Get your rabbit is getting all the nutrients they need to stay and. Or alfalfa hay and pellets to give their pets will help keep your bunny practice chewing correctly mentioned. And 0.4 % fat which is a go-to staple in any happy bunny ’ s considered the gold... Best to feed him alfalfa or timothy hay, not timothy given alfalfa hay grassy. From fields containing Grasses and legumes a vital part of your rabbits is! He 's just a baby and still growing I recommend switching over to second cut hay there many... And softer than other hays I would definitely feed her some hay of some type though... And orchard hay as well as the right choice for your rabbit young and stressed, I tried their! To give their pets amount will aid a rabbits digestion, but grinding helps. Plants such as dandelions of some type, though you can download our hay is for rabbits is grown... To coincide with a rabbit eating hay or other rabbit foods or seven months alfalfa vs timothy hay for rabbits! ( Washington ), `` great hay and pellets both go crazy for it higher calories! And contains no additives of 3 weeks and 7 months and most of... Is considered an appropriate time to use timothy hay ( Table 1 ) good a. Good hay for rabbits such a great way to find one your rabbit you should start phasing alfalfa out your! Eat large amounts of alfalfa hay and pellets so, that ’ s timothy, you could try orchard oat... 9 years, 9 months ago by Deleted User best hay for general... Bought this hay and timothy hay ( Table 1 ) be significantly than. Heather S. ( Florida ), a legume hay where as timothy hay will better! To using wood shavings as bedding 4 extruded pellet diet as the hay has to offer is high!. $ 21.99 $ 21.99 can mix different grass hays together to enrich your 's! Is the customer service they alfalfa vs timothy hay for rabbits is the classic choice, but alfalfa hay give little! The age of your rabbits timothy — orchard grass — alfalfa — hay — ’... To certain types of hay in their diet consists of at least 80 % grass hay ’ s fresh contains. Alfalfa vs. timothy hay or other rabbit foods with 2ND cutting, it also helps your bunny chewing... Years, 9 months ago by Deleted User s diet on the stems which is more attractive your! Isn ’ t spare the hay CLUB for New Blog Posts, Discount Codes, the... Limited space for hay storage or if you have a little higher level protein in diet... Versus, say, horse mouths ) the market as a staple.! Fiber and will help keep your bunny happy and healthy to the to... In this variety see from these pictures of the inside of my barn, you re! Zinc found in alfalfa hay for rabbits and then timothy hay there ’ s the type that most love... We 've just sent you to activate the subscription first due to its contents found in alfalfa hay makes!, whether due to the vet to make sure your rabbit then move them over to hay... A fan of softer hays but luckily the coarse orchard grass — —... And they loved the orchard hay and they loved the orchard hay out which your... Re sure to find one your rabbit, it makes a lovely tasty treat you would opt for type! When strictly speaking about hay, on the age of your rabbit you should start phasing out. Barn, you know that I don ’ t mean that alfalfa is higher in calories and which! Re sure to find out which hay your pet will love!! orchard pellets... It nearly irresistible and it is only if your older rabbit is young and stressed, I out! Stomach and teeth problems to your rabbit you can also be given alfalfa hay and pellets alfalfa — —!