Oxbow Hay

Feeding Oxbow hay and orchard grass to rabbits is a great choice! Both are natural and healthy options that provide essential fiber for your rabbit’s diet, keeping their digestive system functioning well. Here's a guide to feeding them:

1. Understanding Oxbow Hay and Orchard Grass:

• Oxbow Hay: Oxbow is a well-known brand of hay that provides high-quality grass hays like timothy hay, meadow hay, and more.
• Orchard Grass: This is a specific type of hay, often offered by Oxbow as a gentle and tasty variety that many rabbits enjoy. It is sweeter and softer than other grass hays like timothy, which some rabbits find more appealing.

2. Importance of Hay in a Rabbit's Diet:

• High Fiber: Hay is essential for proper digestion, and it prevents obesity and gastrointestinal stasis (a potentially fatal condition where the digestive system slows or stops).
• Dental Health: The rough texture of hay helps to grind down a rabbit’s teeth, preventing them from growing too long and causing pain or issues.
• Mental Stimulation: Rabbits are natural foragers, and hay gives them the opportunity to engage in this instinctive behavior.

3. How Much Hay to Feed:

• Unlimited Hay: Provide unlimited hay at all times. Your rabbit should always have access to fresh hay, and you should replenish it daily.
• Fresh Hay Daily: Oxbow hay and orchard grass should be fresh and free from mold, dust, or contaminants. Store hay in a cool, dry place to keep it fresh.
• Variety: You can rotate between different types of hay, such as Oxbow’s timothy, meadow, or orchard grass hay, to keep your rabbit interested and offer different textures.

4. How to Serve the Hay:

• Hay Rack or Hay Feeder: Consider using a hay rack or a hay feeder to keep the hay clean and accessible. It also reduces mess and waste.
• On the Floor: You can also scatter hay on the floor or place it in a small pile. Make sure it's away from any soiled areas.
• Hay Balls and Toys: You can place hay inside toys or hay balls to make mealtime more engaging. Some rabbits enjoy pulling hay out of these toys.

5. Mixing with Other Foods:

• Fresh Veggies: While hay should be the main portion of your rabbit’s diet, you can supplement with fresh leafy greens like spinach, kale, and parsley.
• Limited Pellets: Pellets, like Oxbow’s rabbit pellets, should be given in small amounts (about 1/4 cup per 5 lbs of body weight per day) as a supplement. Too many pellets can lead to obesity and unbalanced nutrition.
• Fruits: Treats like small pieces of apple, berries, or banana can be given occasionally, but only in small amounts due to their sugar content.

6. Signs of Good Hay Consumption:

• Healthy Poops: You’ll know your rabbit is eating enough hay when their poop is round, dry, and well-formed.
• No Bloating or Gas: If your rabbit is eating enough fiber, it should help avoid bloating or signs of discomfort like gas.
• Teeth Grinding: A healthy rabbit will grind their teeth when eating, which also helps to maintain dental health.

7. Introducing Orchard Grass:

• Transition Slowly: If your rabbit is not used to orchard grass, introduce it slowly alongside their usual hay to help them adjust.
• Observe Preferences: Some rabbits may prefer one type of hay over another. If your rabbit is particularly fond of orchard grass, you can offer it more frequently, but always ensure they also get other types of hay like timothy hay for variety.

8. Watch for Any Hay Issues:

• Dust: If the hay is too dusty, it could irritate your rabbit’s respiratory system. Make sure to store hay properly to avoid dust buildup. If necessary, you can lightly mist the hay with water to reduce dust, but don’t make it wet.
• Mold: Always check the hay for mold, as moldy hay can cause health issues. If any portion of the hay smells musty or looks discolored, discard it immediately.

By ensuring your rabbit has unlimited access to Oxbow hay and orchard grass, and by balancing their diet with fresh vegetables and minimal pellets, you’ll help keep them healthy, happy, and active!

Disclaimer: Please seek expert advice before feeding or caring for any pets and dont depend on the information on this page as it may have errors or be dated.