Oxbow Timothy vs Orchard Grass Hay: Which Is Better for Your Small Pets?

If you’ve got a fluffy friend like a rabbit, guinea pig, or chinchilla, you already know how important hay is. But walk into any pet store and you’ll be bombarded with options—Timothy, Orchard, Alfalfa, and more. Oxbow, a trusted brand in the world of small animal nutrition, offers both Timothy Hay and Orchard Grass Hay. So, which one should you choose?

Let’s take a deep dive into the pros, cons, and best uses of Oxbow Timothy /Orchard Grass to help you pick the perfect hay for your little critter.

Understanding the Role of Hay in Small Pet Nutrition

Hay isn’t just bedding—it’s a dietary staple. In fact, it should make up 75–80% of your pet’s daily intake.

Here’s why:

Fiber-rich hay keeps your pet’s digestive system moving smoothly.

The constant chewing mimics wild foraging and helps grind down teeth, which never stop growing.

It also keeps your pet mentally stimulated and prevents boredom.

What Is Oxbow Timothy Hay?

Oxbow’s Western Timothy Hay is their most popular product, and for good reason.

Nutritional Profile: High in fiber, low in protein and calcium—perfect for adult rabbits and guinea pigs.

Texture: Crisp and stemmy, offering excellent chewing resistance.

Scent: Fresh, earthy aroma that encourages nibbling.

This is the gold standard in small herbivore diets.

What Is Oxbow Orchard Grass Hay?

Orchard Grass is softer and sweeter-smelling than Timothy Hay, making it a hit with picky eaters.

Nutritional Profile: Slightly less fiber, but still meets dietary needs.

Texture: Soft, green blades—easier to chew for younger or senior pets.

Scent: Sweet, floral scent that smells like springtime in a bag!

Key Differences Between Timothy Hay and Orchard Grass

Nutrient Content

Timothy Hay: Higher in fiber and lower in calcium, which is great for preventing urinary issues.

Orchard Grass: Slightly lower fiber but still balanced for daily feeding.

Texture and Chew Factor

Timothy: Crunchy and coarse—great for dental wear.

Orchard: Softer—ideal for pets with dental sensitivities.

Scent and Pet Preference

Some pets love the bold smell of timothy, while others go wild for the sweet scent of orchard grass.

Allergen Considerations

Orchard grass produces less dust than timothy, making it a good choice for allergy-prone homes.

Which Hay Is Best for Rabbits?

Adult rabbits typically do best with Timothy Hay thanks to its nutritional balance and dental benefits.

However, if your bunny is fussy or has trouble chewing, Orchard Grass can be a great supplement—or even a full replacement if needed.

Which Hay Is Best for Guinea Pigs?

Guinea pigs thrive on a mix of hays. Timothy is great for structure, but adding Orchard Grass can entice picky eaters or offer variety in texture.

Which Hay Is Best for Chinchillas?

Chinchillas need high-fiber, low-fat diets. Timothy hay usually wins here, but Orchard Grass can be offered occasionally for variety without disrupting nutrition.

Mixing Timothy and Orchard Grass – A Winning Combo?

Why choose one when you can have both? Mixing hays:

Prevents boredom

Satisfies picky eaters

Adds diversity to the diet

Many Oxbow fans mix equal parts to give their pets the best of both worlds.

Dental Health Benefits of Both Hays

Hay is nature’s toothbrush.

Timothy Hay: Its coarser texture helps grind down teeth faster.

Orchard Grass: Softer, but still provides enough chewing resistance for dental health.

Allergies in Humans and Pets

If you sneeze every time you handle hay, you’re not alone. Timothy hay can be dusty. Oxbow Orchard Grass is often preferred for sensitive noses—both human and pet.

Oxbow’s Commitment to Quality

Oxbow’s hay is:

Grown in the USA

Harvested at peak nutritional value

Hand-sorted for freshness

You’ll notice the difference in color, texture, and scent.

How to Store Hay Properly

To keep hay fresh:

Store in a cool, dry place

Use ventilated containers

Avoid direct sunlight and moisture (say no to plastic bins!)

How Much Hay Should You Feed?

The rule is simple: Unlimited hay. Keep it accessible 24/7.

Rabbits: About their body size in hay per day

Guinea Pigs: Refill hay feeder at least twice daily

Chinchillas: Always keep it full!

Conclusion

So, which one’s better—Oxbow Timothy or Orchard Grass?

Honestly, there’s no wrong answer. It all comes down to your pet’s needs and preferences. Timothy hay offers dental strength and nutrient density, while Orchard Grass brings softness and irresistible scent. The best option? Try both and see what makes your little one happiest.

Either way, Oxbow’s quality ensures your pet gets the best nature has to offer.

FAQs

Q1: Can I feed my pet only Orchard Grass hay?

Yes! It’s perfectly balanced and safe to be the sole hay source for most small herbivores.

Q2: Is Timothy hay suitable for young rabbits?

Young rabbits can eat alfalfa, but once they hit adulthood (around 6–7 months), switch to Timothy.

Q3: What hay is best for picky eaters?

Orchard Grass is a great choice due to its sweet scent and softer texture.

Q4: Can I mix different types of hay together?

Absolutely! Mixing encourages variety and reduces boredom.

Q5: How can I tell if the hay has gone bad?

Look for mold, excessive dust, or a sour smell. Fresh hay should be green and fragrant.