Description
Protein-rich, high-energy feed. Locally sourced.
Leafy, tightly packed and good quality. Available in a conventional size bale for pick up or 50L Vol. cardboard boxes for the courier. Last season hay.
No bales available for sale at the moment.
Please note we do not fumigate our hay. It is cut and baled in the paddock and stored undercover in our hayshed. We box it on the day we send it. We take a slice from a bale and box it so it's fresh, quality hay, and tightly packed in a cardboard box. We do not have an exact weight - the volume of the box is 50L.
What is the difference between meadow hay and lucerne hay?
The main difference between meadow hay and lucerne hay for rabbits is their nutrition and the life stages they best support. Meadow hay is a grass-based, high-fibre feed that should form the main part of an adults daily diet. Lucerne (alfalfa) is a legume hay that is much higher in protein, energy, and calcium, so it is better suited to growing, pregnant, nursing, or underweight small pets. (rabbits and guinea pigs)
Meadow Hay
- Meadow hay is made from mixed grasses, sometimes with clover or wildflowers.
- It is high in fibre and lower in protein and calories, with naturally low calcium levels.
- For adult rabbits, it should make up around 75–80% of the diet because it supports healthy digestion and helps wear down their teeth.
- For adult guinea pigs, it must be available 24/7. Keeps their constantly growing teeth worn down and ensures their digestive tract keeps moving smoothly.
Lucerne Hay
- Lucerne hay is not a grass but a legume in the pea and bean family.
- It is much richer nutritionally, with more protein, digestible energy, and calcium than grass hay.
- While it is ideal for young rabbits under six months, pregnant or nursing does, and rabbits needing extra condition, it is usually too rich for healthy adult rabbits.
- Best for baby guinea pigs (under 6 months), pregnant or nursing sows, and recovering or underweight adults.
- Feeding too much lucerne to adult rabbits and guinea pigs can contribute to obesity and urinary or bladder stones.
As both types of hay are commonly available in New Zealand, it is important to choose the right one for your rabbits or guinea pigs age and needs.
A Vital Note on Guinea Pigs:
Neither meadow nor lucerne hay provides enough Vitamin C to sustain a guinea pig. While meadow hay is their essential fibre source, you must supplement their daily diet with fresh bell peppers (capsicum), leafy greens, or high-quality guinea pig pellets.
