How Much Hay Should Rabbits & Guinea Pigs Eat?
If there is one piece of advice you’ll hear over and over again from rabbit and guinea pig owners, it’s this:
Hay should make up the majority of their diet.
But what does that actually look like?
The Golden Rule
Your rabbit or guinea pig should have unlimited access to fresh hay, all day, every day.
Not just at breakfast. Not just in the evening. Always.
Their digestive system is designed to process fibre almost constantly, and their teeth never stop growing. Having hay available at all times helps support both healthy digestion and natural tooth wear.
“Unlimited” Doesn’t Mean They Eat It All
You might notice your little one pulling hay out of the pile, sitting on it, or seemingly wasting it.
That’s completely normal.
Buns and piggies are surprisingly selective. They’ll often search through a pile to find the tastiest stems and leaves before coming back later for more. It may look messy, but it’s simply part of their natural foraging behaviour.
How Much Do They Actually Eat?
Every animal is a little different, but as a general guide:
Hay should make up around 80 to 90% of your bun or piggies diet.
Fresh greens, pellets, and treats should make up the remaining portion in appropriate amounts.
If you find yourself refilling the hay rack/pile several times a day, that’s usually a great sign!
Fresh Is Best
Hay is at its most inviting when it’s:
Sweet smelling
Dry and crisp
Free from mould or dust
Green rather than dull brown
Replacing hay regularly throughout the day can encourage more nibbling - especially if your pet enjoys freshly topped up piles.
A Few Ways to Encourage More Hay Eating
Try scattering hay around their enclosure instead of keeping it all in one rack.
Stuff hay into cardboard tubes or forage toys.
Mix a few safe dried herbs or flowers through the hay for extra interest.
Place hay beside litter trays, as many buns enjoy eating while they use them.
Every Mouthful Counts
Hay isn’t just another food in the bowl. It’s the foundation of a healthy diet and supports everything from digestion to dental health and natural behaviour.
A happy rabbit or guinea pig is often one with a nose buried in a fresh pile of hay.
At Hooked On Hay, we’re big believers that the simplest things are often the most important. Fresh, high-quality hay is one of the greatest gifts you can give your little companion.