Why do rabbits need hay?

Grass hay gives rabbits fibre for their digestion and chewing helps wear down their constantly growing teeth. A grown-up and a vet should plan their food and care; rabbits need more than carrots.

Can see almost all the way around their heads

Rabbits are herbivores. Grass or suitable hay is central to an adult rabbit’s diet and helps wear down teeth. They also re-eat special soft droppings called caecotrophs to recover nutrients.

🐰

Floppy ears and twitchy nose

MEET THE ANIMAL

🐰 Rabbit

Hoppy little chatterboxes

Rabbits do happy 'binkies' — leaping and twisting in the air when they're joyful. They purr softly when content (by gently grinding their teeth) and form strong bonds with their humans and bunny friends. They're crepuscular: most active at dawn and dusk.

Animal fact file

Typical lifespan

8–12 years

Years of life with suitable care, not ages at slaughter. These are approximate ranges: breed, health and care matter, and some individuals live longer.

Food and digestion: Rabbits are herbivores. Grass or suitable hay is central to an adult rabbit’s diet and helps wear down teeth. They also re-eat special soft droppings called caecotrophs to recover nutrients.
Home and habitat: Domestic rabbits need a spacious, secure living area with hiding places and room to hop, plus compatible rabbit company. Wild rabbits often use burrows; pets also need protection from heat and predators.
Growing up: A baby is a kit and first drinks milk. Growing rabbits have different feeding needs from adults. Older rabbits may need extra attention to teeth, joints and appetite.

These are learning facts, not feeding instructions. Ask a veterinarian about an individual animal’s needs. Never feed or approach an unfamiliar animal without its caregiver’s permission.

💡 Did you know?

Can see almost all the way around their heads
Their teeth never stop growing
Communicate through body language — a flopped-over bunny is a happy bunny

💛 What this means

In factory farms

Rabbits are still used for fur, meat, and lab testing in many places, often kept in tiny wire cages their whole lives. Some are abandoned after Easter when families realize they need lifelong care.

🌱 A kind plant-based choice

Choose 'cruelty-free' and 'vegan' on shampoo and makeup labels — and if you want a bunny friend, adopt from a rescue (never buy on a holiday). 🐰💕

Meet more friends 🌼

← Back to all animals

A gentle, accurate guide to rabbits for families, teachers and curious kids — with facts, factory-farm context, and kind plant-based choices.

Common questions from parents

Why do rabbits need hay?: Grass hay gives rabbits fibre for their digestion and chewing helps wear down their constantly growing teeth. A grown-up and a vet should plan their food and care; rabbits need more than carrots.
Are rabbits smart?: Can see almost all the way around their heads
What do rabbits eat?: Rabbits are herbivores. Grass or suitable hay is central to an adult rabbit’s diet and helps wear down teeth. They also re-eat special soft droppings called caecotrophs to recover nutrients.
How can kids help rabbits?: Choose 'cruelty-free' and 'vegan' on shampoo and makeup labels — and if you want a bunny friend, adopt from a rescue (never buy on a holiday). 🐰💕