What natural alternatives complement hay racks?
Written by
Robert Brown
Reviewed by
Prof. Henry Webster, Ph.D.As a complement to rabbit hay racks, natural alternatives provide foraging and scavenging behaviours that the racks miss. Scatter feeding allows them to forage, while access to their food in a head-down position helps digestion. Cardboard tubes and digging boxes provide mental stimulation. Lastly, combining different techniques creates balanced feeding routines that allow for both instinct and health to thrive.
Scatter Feeding
- Spread hay across clean enclosure floors
- Mimics natural grazing patterns perfectly
- Promotes head-down eating posture for better digestion
Cardboard Enrichment
- Use non-toxic cardboard tubes stuffed with hay
- Rabbits enjoy pulling hay through openings
- Provides mental stimulation while eating
Snuffle Mats
- Hide hay pieces in fabric mats with folds
- Encourages foraging through fabric layers
- Extends feeding time to 30+ minutes
Digging Boxes
- Layer hay between soil in plastic containers
- Satisfies digging instincts while foraging
- Provides physical exercise during feeding
A natural form of feeding can be achieved by scatter feeding, distributing fresh hay in patches about a large clean area of the garden or park. The bunnies can then make their way here and there as they eat, thus moving constantly, as in the wild, and guarding against obesity. Fresh patches should be distributed daily, and care should be taken to ensure the ground is dry, as hay quickly becomes moldy when damp.
DIY options can be inexpensive ways to provide enrichment for your pets. Cut holes in paper bags so that your pet can dig through to the hay. Use untreated wicker baskets for digging through and eating. Create some hay balls using sisal rope! As always, monitor your pet when introducing them to something new and remove any pieces of plastic or adhesive that your pet has chewed.
Mary's alternatives to racks. Use racks overnight with minimal contact. Use the nature method by day. Give 60-70% to foraging and leave racks for times of convenience, a happy compromise of both.
Watch your rabbit's preferences closely to enable engaging activities. Concerning yourself with experimentation to see what they stick to longest. Mix and match according to age and mobility; older bunnies will prefer a ground-level option, while a more spry adolescent will appreciate a rewarding digging box. Experiment with different combinations based on personality type.
Gradually transition your bunny to another style. Introduce one new style every week. Use familiar hay, but present it in a new way. Combine it with something positive, such as being given pats and cuddles. Be patient with your bunny if s/he doesn't want to adapt to new food styles. Some take weeks!
Read the full article: Rabbit Hay Racks: Benefits, Risks and Tips
