Timothy Hay for Rabbits and Guinea Pigs
Small pets: Safe and essential. Offer unlimited fresh timothy hay to adult rabbits and guinea pigs. Throw out wet or moldy flakes.
Unlimited fresh timothy hay is the backbone of an adult rabbit or guinea pig diet. Alfalfa is richer and suits growing or nursing animals, not the default adult bowl. Dusty or moldy hay is the hazard—not the grass itself.
Researched & Compiled by the Pet Safety Hub Editorial Team
Clinical Data Sources: ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center & Merck Veterinary Manual
These pages describe clinical possibilities and a Green, Yellow, or Red triage path. They do not diagnose an individual animal or replace an examination by a licensed veterinarian. Read the editorial standards.
2. Why hay is non-negotiable
Long-strand fiber keeps the gut moving and wears open-rooted teeth. Without hay, droppings shrink and gut stasis can follow. Pellets and produce are extras around that foundation.
3. Quality checks
| Check | Action |
|---|---|
| Smell and color | Fresh, dry, green-gold; discard mold or damp bales |
| Dust | Sneezing may mean dustier hay—switch brands and ventilate |
| Appetite | No hay intake plus hunching needs same-day care |