How Much Hay Should a Rabbit Eat Daily?

Hay should make up the majority of your rabbit's diet — about 80-90% of their daily food intake. But what does that actually look like in practice?

The Importance of Hay

Rabbits are herbivores whose digestive systems are designed to process fibrous plant material continuously. Hay provides:

• Essential fiber — Keeps the digestive system moving properly
• Dental wear — The grinding action of chewing hay helps wear down constantly growing teeth
• Nutritional balance — Provides vitamins, minerals, and protein
• Mental stimulation — Foraging for hay keeps rabbits engaged and satisfied

How Much Hay Per Day?

A healthy adult rabbit should eat a bundle of hay roughly the size of their body every day. Here's a more practical breakdown:

• Small breeds (2-4 lbs): 1-2 cups of hay daily
• Medium breeds (4-8 lbs): 2-3 cups of hay daily
• Large breeds (8+ lbs): 3-4 cups of hay daily

Remember: You can't overfeed hay! It should always be available, 24/7.

Choosing the Right Hay

Timothy hay is the gold standard for adult rabbits. It's low in calcium and calories, high in fiber, and rabbits love it. Other good options include:

• Orchard grass
• Oat hay
• Meadow hay

Avoid alfalfa hay for adult rabbits unless specifically recommended by your vet — it's too high in calories and calcium for everyday feeding.

Tips for Success

• Keep it fresh — Replace hay daily and store in a cool, dry place
• Use a hay rack — Keeps hay clean and off the floor
• Mix types — Combining timothy with a little orchard grass adds variety
• Watch for changes — A sudden decrease in hay consumption can signal health issues