Alfalfa Hay for Rabbits: complete Guide

Of course, you want to provide your rabbit with the best possible nutrition, but we understand it can be confusing what kind of hay is best. Read this article to find out more about alfalfa hay and organic alfalfa hay or skip to our chart comparing prices for alfalfa hay, organic alfalfa hay, and timothy hay. 

While both conventional and organic alfalfa hay can be a good source of nutrients for rabbits, organic alfalfa hay offers even more benefits. This article dives into those benefits. If you already know what type of alfalfa you want, Blue Mountain Hay can provide you with high-quality options!

What is Alfalfa Hay and Why is it Good for Rabbits?

Alfalfa hay is a type of legume hay (as opposed to grass hay) that is high in protein, calcium, fiber, and other essential nutrients that rabbits need for optimal health. Rabbits are herbivores and require a diet that is high in fiber to maintain healthy digestion. Alfalfa hay is an excellent source of fiber and provides the necessary nutrients to help them grow and maintain healthy teeth and bones. Alfalfa hay has been described as a rabbit super food compared to other types of hay.

Here is a helpful table from Feed Greatness comparing different types of hay and their nutritional properties.

Generally speaking, it is recommended that adult rabbits have an 80% grass hay diet, such as timothy hay, rather than alfalfa.

Conventional and Organic Alfalfa Hay: Which One and Why?

What if you know you need alfalfa hay; are there better kinds than others?

Yes, we recommend Organic alfalfa hay. Blue Mountain Hay offers a high-quality, affordable organic alfalfa hay option!

Why choose organic alfalfa? Organic farming methods result in higher quality and nutrient-dense hay. The healthier growing environment of organic alfalfa hay promotes the growth of beneficial microorganisms that aid in digestion. Organic alfalfa hay is also less likely to contain harmful chemicals or toxins that can cause health problems in rabbits. Additionally, organic farming practices have a positive impact on the environment, promoting healthy soil and biodiversity.

Organic alfalfa hay is grown without the use of synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, or other chemicals. Instead, organic farmers use natural methods to fertilize the soil and control pests, such as crop rotation, composting, and natural predators.

Can Rabbits Eat Alfalfa Hay Every Day?: Frequency and Duration

Yes, rabbits can eat alfalfa hay every day, but the amount and frequency will depend on the age and health of your rabbit. 

Because it is so dense specifically in protein and calcium, alfalfa hay can be very beneficial for very young rabbits (1-7 months), or rabbits that need extra nutrition. But as they grow older, they may need a more balanced diet that includes other types of hay (grass hay), such as Blue Mountain Timothy Hay or Blue Mountain Organic Oat Hay (learn about organic oat hay for rabbits).

It is recommended that adult rabbits have at least a diet of at least 80% grass hay (rather than alfalfa, a legume hay).

In fact, it can be dangerous to give too much alfalfa to adult rabbits. The extra calcium may become too concentrated in their system giving them painful and possibly fatal stones. The extra protein could hinder their digestion, resulting in too much weight gain, Gastrointestinal Stasis (the stomach shuts down), and/or other serious conditions. Jump to our table comparing the nutrients of different types of hay 

That being said, alfalfa hay can be used well for adult rabbits as treats, to encourage eating in picky rabbits, and to help provide nutrients to malnourished or sick rabbits. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate feeding schedule and amount for your rabbit.

Cost of Alfalfa Hay for Rabbits: Organic and Conventional

Conventional Alfalfa Hay can actually be more expensive at times than Organic Alfalfa Hay because of the fertilizer costs that must be used (such as is the case with Blue Mountain Hay). At times conventional could be cheaper than organic, but even then, it is worth the investment for the health of your rabbit. 

Below is a table comparing our organic alfalfa hay, conventional alfalfa hay, and some grass hays. Choosing organic alfalfa hay can help prevent health problems associated with conventional hay, such as respiratory issues and GI stasis. When selecting hay for your rabbit, consider Blue Mountain Hay for high-quality organic and conventional alfalfa hay options!

Conclusion

Blue Mountain alfalfa hays are a good source of protein and calcium for rabbits. Feeding your rabbit Organic Alfalfa hay can offer many benefits, including improved nutrition, better digestion, reduced risk of health problems, and a positive impact on the environment (see our in-depth hay guide for small pets). For adult rabbits, Blue Mountain offers other hays that are a better source of fiber, such as Timothy or Organic Oat Hay. Using several different kinds of hay can provide a balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs. To learn more about Timothy Hay for rabbits read this article.

While conventional alfalfa hay can be a good source of nutrients for rabbits, choosing organic alfalfa hay or organic oat hay is a better option for most rabbit owners. If you’re curious, we also have information on hay for chinchillas. Check out our high quality, affordable organic hays or even our organic bedding (e.g. straw works as a great bedding in cat shelters)!