Hay is one of the most important parts of a rabbit or guinea pig’s diet. Good-quality grass hay provides essential fibre, supports healthy teeth and digestion, and allows them to graze throughout the day. For most adult rabbits and guinea pigs, fresh hay should make up the majority of their diet and be available at all times.
Supports Healthy Digestion
Rabbits and guinea pigs need plenty of fibre to keep their digestive system working normally. The long fibre found in grass hay helps keep food moving through the gut, which is why regular access to hay is so important. If your rabbit or guinea pig stops eating or you notice a change in their droppings, contact your veterinarian promptly.
Helps Keep Teeth Healthy
Rabbit and guinea pig teeth continue to grow throughout their lives. The chewing and grinding required to eat fibrous hay helps naturally wear their teeth down. Pellets and softer foods don’t require the same amount of chewing, so they shouldn’t be used as a replacement for hay.
Encourages Natural Grazing
Rabbits and guinea pigs naturally spend a large part of their day eating and foraging. Having hay available gives them plenty of opportunity to graze and helps keep them occupied. Try offering hay in racks, piles or different areas of their enclosure to encourage natural foraging behaviour.
What Type of Hay Should I Feed?
Good quality grass hays such as Timothy, meadow, oaten or orchard grass are suitable everyday choices for most adult rabbits and guinea pigs. Choose hay that smells fresh and is clean, dry and free from mould. Different grass hays can also be offered to provide some variety in taste and texture.
Lucerne (alfalfa) hay is higher in protein and calcium and may be suitable for young, growing animals or when specifically recommended, but it generally isn’t the main everyday hay for healthy adults.
Keep Hay Available Every Day
Pellets, fresh vegetables and other suitable foods can form part of a balanced diet, but hay should remain the mainstay for rabbits and guinea pigs. Keep plenty of clean, fresh hay available at all times and replace anything that becomes wet or soiled. If your pet suddenly starts eating less hay than usual, speak with your veterinarian.