5 Best Hay for Rabbits to Eat in 2025

Rabbits have been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. From the first time I brought home a tiny, twitch-nosed bundle of fluff named Bella to my current duo, Milo and Hazel, these little creatures have brought endless joy—and a fair share of challenges. One of the biggest lessons I learned early on is how vital the right diet is to a rabbit’s health. At the core of that diet is hay.

Over the years, I’ve tried dozens of hay brands and types. Some were a hit, others... not so much. My journey to find the best hay for my rabbits has been filled with trial, error, and plenty of “why won’t you eat this when it smells so good?!” moments.

With 2025 upon us, I decided to put together this guide to help fellow rabbit parents navigate the hay aisle—or online rabbit supply store—with confidence. Whether you’re a seasoned bunny parent or new to the world of rabbit care, here’s a breakdown of the five best types of hay for rabbits in 2025.

1. Timothy Hay: The Gold Standard

If you ask any rabbit owner—or veterinarian—what hay to feed your rabbit, Timothy hay is almost always the first answer. It’s been the cornerstone of rabbit diets for decades, and for good reason.

Why It’s Great:Timothy hay is high in fiber, which is essential for maintaining a rabbit’s digestive health. It’s also low in protein and calcium, reducing the risk of urinary issues and weight gain. For years, my rabbits have thrived on it, and I’ve noticed they’re most energetic when Timothy hay makes up the bulk of their diet.

Personal Favorite Brand:In 2025, I’ve been loving Oxbow’s Western Timothy Hay. It’s consistent in quality, with long, fragrant strands that my rabbits seem to enjoy munching on endlessly. I remember when Hazel was just a baby, and she’d bury herself in the hay pile like it was a personal playground. It’s hard to forget those moments when you see how much joy such a simple thing brings them.

Pro Tip:If your rabbit seems picky about Timothy hay, try offering different cuts—first cut tends to be coarser and richer in fiber, while second cut is softer and leafier.

2. Orchard Grass Hay: A Sweet Alternative

Not every rabbit is a fan of Timothy hay. Milo, for instance, went through a phase where he outright refused to eat it, and I was at my wit’s end. That’s when I discovered orchard grass hay—and it was a game-changer.

Why It’s Great:Orchard grass hay is slightly sweeter in aroma and taste than Timothy hay. It’s also less dusty, which makes it a fantastic option for rabbits (or owners) with allergies. I’ve noticed that Milo tends to gravitate toward orchard grass hay when I mix it with his usual Timothy hay—it’s like giving him a little treat without compromising on his nutritional needs.

Personal Favorite Brand:Small Pet Select Orchard Grass Hay has been a staple in our household for years. Their hay always arrives fresh, with a vibrant green color that smells divine. I remember one particular winter when Milo’s appetite dipped—switching to orchard grass hay perked him right up.

Pro Tip:Mixing orchard grass hay with Timothy hay can entice picky eaters while still providing the benefits of both types. It’s also a great way to add variety to your rabbit’s diet.

3. Meadow Hay: A Natural Buffet

If your rabbit is anything like Hazel, variety is key to keeping them interested in their food. Meadow hay is a blend of different grasses and herbs, creating a diverse, natural diet that mimics what rabbits would eat in the wild.

Why It’s Great:The mix of grasses and herbs in meadow hay provides a range of flavors and textures, which can be particularly appealing for rabbits who get bored with the same old hay every day. It’s also a softer hay, making it a good option for older rabbits or those with dental issues.

Personal Favorite Brand:In 2025, Vitakraft Meadow Hay has been a reliable choice. It’s well-sorted, meaning you won’t find random sticks or debris mixed in—a problem I’ve encountered with other meadow hay brands in the past. Watching Hazel nibble her way through a pile of meadow hay reminds me of how important it is to provide not just nutrition, but joy in their meals.

Pro Tip:Because meadow hay is softer, it’s best to pair it with a coarser hay like first-cut Timothy hay to ensure your rabbit’s teeth get the wear they need.

4. Alfalfa Hay: A Nutrient-Rich Treat for Young Rabbits

While alfalfa hay isn’t suitable for adult rabbits as a primary food source, it’s fantastic for young, growing bunnies or pregnant/nursing does. Alfalfa is a legume hay, which means it’s higher in protein and calcium than grass hays.

Why It’s Great:Alfalfa hay provides the extra nutrients young rabbits need during their critical growth stages. I remember when Hazel and Milo were babies, and alfalfa hay was the highlight of their day. Watching them grow strong and healthy on it was incredibly rewarding.

Personal Favorite Brand:Kaytee Alfalfa Hay has been a standout in terms of quality and availability. It’s soft, fragrant, and perfect for baby rabbits.

Pro Tip:Once your rabbit reaches six months of age, gradually transition them to a grass hay like Timothy or orchard grass. Too much calcium from alfalfa hay in adult rabbits can lead to health issues like bladder sludge.

5. Botanical Hay: The Gourmet Experience

For rabbits who appreciate the finer things in life—or simply need a little extra encouragement to eat their hay—botanical hay is a delightful option. It’s typically a blend of Timothy hay with dried herbs and flowers like chamomile, lavender, or marigold.

Why It’s Great:The added herbs not only enhance the hay’s aroma but also provide calming properties. I introduced botanical hay to Hazel during a particularly stressful time—she was recovering from a spay surgery—and it helped her relax while keeping her digestive system moving.

Personal Favorite Brand:Oxbow’s Botanical Hay is a clear winner in this category. The mix of herbs smells amazing, and Hazel often digs through the pile to find her favorite bits first. It’s like a scavenger hunt for her!

Pro Tip:Use botanical hay as a supplement or treat rather than a primary hay source. The variety keeps things exciting without overloading their diet with herbs.

How to Choose the Right Hay for Your Rabbit

While these five types of hay are fantastic options, it’s important to remember that every rabbit is unique. What works for one bunny might not work for another. Here are some tips to help you make the best choice:

1. Observe Your Rabbit’s Preferences:Rabbits can be surprisingly opinionated about their food. If one type of hay isn’t a hit, try another until you find what they love.

2. Focus on Freshness:Always look for hay that’s green, fragrant, and free of dust. Rabbits are more likely to eat hay that smells fresh and inviting.

3. Provide Variety:Mixing different types of hay can keep your rabbit interested and ensure they get a well-rounded diet.

4. Prioritize Dental Health:Coarser hays like first-cut Timothy are great for keeping a rabbit’s teeth worn down, which is essential for preventing dental issues.

FAQ: Choosing the Best Hay for Your Rabbit

1. How much hay should I feed my rabbit each day?

Rabbits should have unlimited access to fresh hay every day. Think of hay as the foundation of their diet—it should make up about 80-90% of what they eat. A good rule of thumb is to provide a pile of hay about the same size as your rabbit each day. Some days, they might munch through it all; on others, they’ll leave a little behind. Just make sure the pile is always fresh and clean.

When Hazel was a baby, I remember worrying she wasn’t eating “enough” hay, but I realized rabbits tend to snack throughout the day rather than finishing a set portion in one go. Just keep the hay coming, and they’ll graze as they need to.

2. Can I mix different types of hay for my rabbit?

Absolutely! In fact, mixing hays is a great way to keep your rabbit interested in their food and ensure they’re getting a variety of nutrients. For example, you could mix Timothy hay with orchard grass or add a little botanical hay for a special treat. It’s like creating a hay buffet for your bunny.

When Milo was being picky, mixing orchard grass with his regular Timothy hay made all the difference. He loved digging through the mix to find the bits he liked best.

3. My rabbit doesn’t seem to like hay. What should I do?

If your rabbit isn’t eating hay, don’t panic! First, try offering different types of hay—some rabbits prefer softer orchard grass, while others like the coarser texture of first-cut Timothy hay. You can also experiment with mixing in small amounts of botanical hay to make it more appealing.

Sometimes, presentation matters, too. Placing hay in a clean, dry area or a fun hay feeder can encourage them to nibble. I once sprinkled a little dried chamomile on Hazel’s hay pile when she was being stubborn, and it worked like a charm!

If your rabbit still refuses to eat hay, consult a vet—it could be a sign of dental problems or other health issues.

4. What’s the difference between first cut, second cut, and third cut hay?

The “cut” refers to when the hay was harvested during the growing season:

• First Cut: Coarser, thicker stalks with high fiber content. Great for rabbits who need help wearing down their teeth.

• Second Cut: Softer and leafier, with a balanced texture. Most rabbits prefer this for daily feeding.

• Third Cut: The softest and richest in nutrients but lower in fiber. It’s better as a treat or for picky eaters.

In my house, second cut is the go-to, but I like to keep a bit of first cut on hand for variety (and to keep their teeth in tip-top shape).

5. Can I feed alfalfa hay to an adult rabbit?

Alfalfa hay is high in protein and calcium, which is great for young, growing rabbits but not ideal for adults. Feeding alfalfa to adult rabbits regularly can lead to health issues like bladder sludge or kidney stones.

That said, a small handful of alfalfa as an occasional treat won’t hurt. It’s like giving them a slice of cake—you wouldn’t serve it for every meal, but it’s fine in moderation.

6. How do I store hay to keep it fresh?

Proper storage is key to keeping hay fresh and appealing to your rabbit. Store it in a cool, dry place with good air circulation. Avoid sealing it in plastic bags, as trapped moisture can lead to mold. Instead, use breathable storage solutions like a cardboard box, a fabric bag, or even the original hay packaging if it’s designed to allow airflow.

I once made the mistake of storing hay in a damp garage—let’s just say the smell told me it was time to throw it out. Lesson learned!

7. Can I use hay as bedding for my rabbit?

While hay can technically be used as bedding, it’s better to use it as food. Rabbits often eat the hay they’re surrounded by, so if you use it for bedding, you’ll need to ensure it’s always clean and fresh. For bedding or litter box material, consider alternatives like paper-based bedding or wood pellets. Then, place hay on top of the litter box to encourage munching while they “go.”

This setup works perfectly for Hazel and Milo—plus, it keeps their space clean and cozy.

8. How do I know if my rabbit’s hay is high-quality?

High-quality hay should be green, fragrant, and free of excessive dust or mold. When you open a fresh bag, it should smell sweet and grassy, not musty or stale. Avoid hay that looks brown or feels overly dry.

Whenever I open a new bag of hay, I always take a moment to check the color and give it a good sniff—it’s the easiest way to tell if it’s fresh and worth feeding.

9. Is there a difference between “horse hay” and “rabbit hay”?

Hay labeled for horses can sometimes work for rabbits, but you’ll need to check the quality and type. Timothy hay or orchard grass sold for horses is often cheaper than rabbit-specific hay, but it may be coarser or dustier. Always inspect the hay to ensure it’s suitable for your bunny before feeding.

Once, I bought a bale of “horse hay” from a local farm, and while it saved me money, I had to sift through it to remove twigs and coarse pieces. It worked out, but the extra effort might not be worth it for everyone.

10. How do I transition my rabbit to a new type of hay?

Rabbits can be creatures of habit, so transitioning to a new hay should be done gradually. Start by mixing a small amount of the new hay with their current hay, gradually increasing the ratio over 1-2 weeks. This helps avoid digestive upset and gives your rabbit time to adjust to the new flavor and texture.

When I introduced orchard grass hay to Milo, it took about a week for him to fully embrace it. Patience is key—rabbits like to take their time with new things!

11. My rabbit seems to waste a lot of hay. What can I do?

Wasting hay is a common frustration for rabbit owners. The truth is, rabbits are natural foragers, and they often pull hay out to sort through it. While it may seem wasteful, this behavior is normal.

To minimize waste, try using a hay feeder to keep the hay off the floor and encourage more organized eating. Any clean hay they don’t eat can also be repurposed for composting or used as mulch in your garden.

I’ve learned to accept a bit of hay mess as part of the rabbit-parenting experience. Hazel loves to toss her hay around—it’s like her version of redecorating.

12. How do I know if my rabbit is eating enough hay?

Healthy rabbits should spend a large portion of their day munching on hay. Signs they’re eating enough include:

• Regular, firm droppings (a good sign of digestive health).

• Steady weight and good energy levels.

If your rabbit isn’t eating hay or seems lethargic, consult a veterinarian—it could indicate an underlying health issue.

When Hazel had a minor dental problem last year, her hay consumption dropped noticeably. Catching it early made all the difference in her recovery

Final Thoughts

As we move into 2025, the options for high-quality rabbit hay are better than ever. Whether your bunny prefers the classic Timothy hay, the sweet notes of orchard grass, or the wild variety of meadow hay, there’s something out there for every taste and need.

For me, the joy of rabbit care lies in the little moments—like watching Hazel’s ears twitch as she explores a fresh pile of hay, or seeing Milo flop contentedly after a satisfying meal. Choosing the right hay isn’t just about nutrition; it’s about creating a happy, healthy life for your furry friend.

Here’s to finding the perfect hay for your rabbit in 2025—because they deserve nothing but the best. 🐇