The rabbit hay calculator determines how much hay your rabbit should eat daily based on body weight. Hay is the single most important component of a rabbit's diet — it should make up 80-90% of their daily food intake and be available at all times.
Calculate Daily Hay Amount
Rabbit Hay Feeding Guide
Hay is not optional for rabbits — it is physiologically essential. Rabbits have a unique digestive system that requires constant movement of fibrous material to prevent GI stasis, a life-threatening condition where gut movement stops. Additionally, rabbits have continuously growing teeth that must be worn down by chewing fibrous hay or dental disease results.
Pellets and Fresh Greens
Adult rabbits need a small amount of high-quality pellets (1/4 cup per 5 lbs body weight) and a large variety of leafy greens daily. Good greens: romaine lettuce, cilantro, parsley, kale (small amounts), basil, dill. Avoid: iceberg lettuce (no nutrition), cabbage (gas), and starchy vegetables like carrots as a staple (treat only).
Water
Fresh water must be available at all times. Most rabbits prefer to drink from a bowl rather than a bottle — bowls allow more natural drinking position and larger volumes. Change water daily and clean the bowl frequently.
FAQ
Is this rabbit hay calculator free?
Yes, completely free with no signup required.
How much hay should a rabbit eat per day?
Rabbits should eat a pile of hay at least as large as their body size daily — approximately their body weight in hay, which translates to roughly 5% of their body weight per day. Hay should make up 80-90% of a rabbit's total diet and should always be available free-choice.
What type of hay is best for rabbits?
Timothy hay is the gold standard for adult rabbits — high fiber, low calcium, and widely available. Orchard grass is a good alternative with a slightly sweeter taste many rabbits prefer. Oat hay is another option. Alfalfa hay is too high in calcium and protein for adult rabbits and should only be given to rabbits under 7 months or pregnant/nursing does.
Can I feed too much hay to a rabbit?
No. Hay is the foundation of a rabbit's diet and cannot be overfed. It keeps the digestive tract moving, wears down continuously growing teeth, provides mental stimulation, and prevents obesity (since it is low in calories). Always keep hay available 24/7.
What happens if a rabbit doesn't eat enough hay?
Insufficient hay leads to serious health problems: GI stasis (life-threatening gut slowdown), dental disease from insufficient tooth wear, obesity from too much pellet reliance, and hairball blockages. GI stasis is the leading cause of death in domestic rabbits and is largely preventable with a hay-based diet.