The Importance of Hay in a Rabbit’s Diet (And What Else to Feed for Optimal Health)
If you’re a rabbit owner, one of the most important things you can do for your pet’s health is get their diet right. Rabbits have very specific nutritional needs, and at the heart of it all is one essential ingredient: hay.
In this guide, we’ll explain why hay is vital, how much your rabbit should eat, and what other foods and healthy treats you can safely include to support a long, happy life.
Why Hay Is Essential for Rabbits
Hay should make up around 80–90% of your rabbit’s daily diet. It’s not just food — it’s the foundation of their overall health.
1. Supports Digestive Health
Rabbits have a delicate digestive system that relies on a constant intake of fibre. Hay keeps everything moving properly and helps prevent serious conditions like gut stasis.
2. Maintains Dental Health
Rabbit teeth grow continuously throughout their lives. Chewing fibrous hay naturally wears their teeth down, preventing painful dental issues.
3. Encourages Natural Behaviour
Foraging and grazing on hay mimics a rabbit’s natural habits, keeping them mentally stimulated and reducing boredom.
Best Types of Hay for Rabbits
Not all hay is the same. Here are the best options:
- Timothy Hay – The gold standard for most adult rabbits
- Meadow Hay – Great for variety and enrichment
- Orchard Grass – Softer and ideal for fussy eaters
- Alfalfa Hay – Higher in calcium, best for young rabbits (under 6 months)
👉 Tip: Always choose fresh, dust-free, sweet-smelling hay with a natural green colour.
How Much Hay Should Rabbits Eat?
A simple rule:
👉 Your rabbit should eat a pile of hay at least the size of their body every day
Hay should always be:
- Available 24/7
- Replenished daily
- Kept clean and dry
What Else Should Rabbits Eat?
While hay is the main component, a balanced rabbit diet also includes fresh foods and high-quality pellets.
🥬 Fresh Vegetables (Daily)
Leafy greens provide essential vitamins and hydration.
Good options include:
- Kale (in moderation)
- Romaine lettuce
- Spring greens
- Coriander
- Parsley
- Dandelion leaves
Introduce new vegetables slowly to avoid digestive upset.
🥕 Rabbit Pellets (In Moderation)
Pellets should only make up a small portion of your rabbit’s diet.
- Choose high-fibre, natural pellets
- Avoid mixes with seeds, cereals, or colourful bits
- Feed approximately 1 egg cup per day per rabbit (depending on size)
🍎 Healthy Treats (Occasional)
Treats should be given sparingly but can be great for bonding and enrichment.
Safe treats include:
- Small pieces of apple (no seeds)
- Banana (very small amounts)
- Carrot (occasionally, due to sugar content)
- Natural forage treats like dried herbs or flowers
Foods to Avoid
Some foods can be harmful or even toxic to rabbits:
❌ Iceberg lettuce
❌ Chocolate
❌ Processed human foods
❌ Sugary treats
❌ Bread and cereals
Always stick to natural, rabbit-safe foods.
The Key to a Healthy Rabbit Diet
To summarise:
- 80–90% Hay (essential for digestion and teeth)
- Fresh greens daily
- Small amount of quality pellets
- Occasional natural treats
A hay-rich diet doesn’t just keep your rabbit healthy — it helps prevent costly vet bills and ensures they live a longer, happier life.
Shop Natural Rabbit Food & Hay
At Woofingtons, we carefully select high-quality, natural hay, feeds, and treats to support your rabbit’s health — because we believe in pet health over profit.
Pop into one of our stores in Leigh, Pemberton or Hindley, or shop online to give your rabbit the very best.