Quick answer
Meadow hay makes excellent rabbit bedding because it is soft, high in fibre, and free from pesticides. Layer it thickly in the sleeping area and change it regularly to keep your rabbit healthy and comfortable.
Why meadow hay works well for bedding
Meadow hay is naturally balanced with a mix of grasses and herbs, mirroring what rabbits eat in the wild. It provides a soft, absorbent layer that supports both digestion and dental health if your rabbit nibbles on it. Unlike straw, it is less dusty and more palatable, encouraging natural foraging behaviour inside the hutch.
Choosing the right hay for bedding
Not all hay is the same. Meadow hay from a pesticide-free source, like the 2KG Meadow Hay from a family farm in Sussex, ensures your rabbit is not exposed to harmful chemicals. It is high in fibre, which helps prevent obesity and dental issues, and its soft texture makes it comfortable for resting.
How to use meadow hay for rabbit bedding
- Step 1: Prepare the hutch base: Remove old bedding and debris. Clean the hutch floor with a pet-safe disinfectant and let it dry completely. A clean base prevents mould and bacteria from building up under the hay. Common mistake: leaving damp spots after cleaning. Always dry thoroughly before adding fresh hay.
- Step 2: Lay a thick layer of meadow hay: Spread a 5–10 cm (2–4 inch) layer of meadow hay evenly across the sleeping area. Fluff it up to create a soft, insulating bed. Thicker layers absorb urine better and keep your rabbit warm. Common mistake: using too thin a layer. Rabbits need depth to burrow and stay comfortable.
- Step 3: Add extra hay for foraging: Place a handful of meadow hay in a separate corner or hay rack. This encourages natural foraging and ensures your rabbit has fresh hay to eat that is not soiled by urine. Common mistake: mixing eating hay with bedding hay. Separate them to maintain hygiene and reduce waste.
- Step 4: Spot clean daily: Remove wet or soiled patches of hay every day using a small scoop or gloved hand. Replace with fresh meadow hay to keep the bedding dry and odour-free. Common mistake: waiting too long between spot cleans. Wet hay can cause respiratory issues and attract flies.
- Step 5: Full change weekly: Once a week, remove all bedding, clean the hutch thoroughly, and start again with a fresh layer of meadow hay. This prevents ammonia buildup from urine. Common mistake: topping up without removing old bedding. This leads to damp, smelly conditions that harm your rabbit's health.
Product facts
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2KG Meadow Hay: Meadow Hay is a naturally balanced, high-fibre hay sourced from a pesticide-free family farm in Sussex, ideal for supporting healthy digestion and dental care. Using it as bedding means your rabbit can safely nibble on it without ingesting chemicals, and the high fibre content helps grind down teeth naturally.
2KG Meadow Hay
