Other
Alfalfa Hay
Legume hay that is higher in protein, calcium and calories than grass hays such as timothy.
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Who can eat it
Young, pregnant or nursing rabbits and guinea pigsUnderweight small herbivores under veterinary guidance
Not suitable for
Healthy adult rabbits and guinea pigs as a stapleChinchillas as a regular food
Benefits
- Extra calcium and protein support growth and lactation
- Highly palatable, useful for encouraging a poor eater to eat
Risks
- Excess calcium in adults is linked to bladder sludge and stones
- Too calorie-dense for a sedentary adult, contributing to obesity
Preparation and serving
- Preparation
- Offer fresh and dry, ideally mixed with grass hay rather than fed alone to adults.
- Serving guidance
- As the main hay for growing or nursing animals; an occasional treat portion for adults.
Before offering alfalfa hay
- Check the product suits the exact animal and life stage (listed for: Young, pregnant or nursing rabbits and guinea pigs; Underweight small herbivores under veterinary guidance). Look for a label stating it is complete for that species, or follow the diet plan your vet has given.
- Follow the preparation advice: Offer fresh and dry, ideally mixed with grass hay rather than fed alone to adults. Do not substitute a seasoned or processed version and assume the same safety.
- Portion guidance: As the main hay for growing or nursing animals; an occasional treat portion for adults. Change foods gradually over about a week, and agree any change with the vet if your pet is on a prescribed diet.
- If your pet develops vomiting, diarrhoea, itching or discomfort after a change of food, seek veterinary advice. Breathing difficulty or collapse needs immediate help.
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Guidance libraries and further reading
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