19/11/2025
Rabbits and Horses: Digestive
Twins in Different Sizes.
Despite their size difference, rabbits and horses share the most similar digestive systems and dental structure among domestic herbivores.
Both rabbits and horses are monogastric herbivores with a simple stomach for initial digestion. A large cecum and colon where microbial fermentation breaks down fibrous plant material and they rely on symbiotic microbes to extract nutrients from cellulose.
Both are:
Hindgut fermenters
* They rely on microbial fermentation in the cecum and colon to break down fibrous plant material.
* Their digestion depends on long strand, indigestible fiber like hay to keep the gut moving and microbes balanced.
Continuously growing teeth.
* Both species have similar structured hypsodont teeth, meaning their teeth grow continuously and must be worn down through chewing.
* Hay provides the abrasive texture and chewing duration needed to prevent dental overgrowth.
Hay = Fuel for Fermentation.
Hay provides long stem, indigestible fiber, which Keeps the gut moving and supports microbial health. This Prevents Gl stasis (rabbits) and colic (horses). Without hay, both species are at risk for:
* Microbial imbalance
* GI stasis or colic
* Dental overgrowth
* Behavioral frustration
Hay is a Digestive Foundation.
* Horses: Hay (or pasture) makes up the bulk of their diet. Grain is a supplement, not a staple.
* Rabbits: Hay should be 70-80% of their diet. Pellets and greens are a supplement not a staple.
Same Biology, Same Rules!
We would never feed a horse only grain or vegetables it would cause colic, acidosis, and behavioral stress. Likewise, feeding a rabbit only greens or pellets ignores their biological need for fiber and chewing. A diet void of hay goes against their biology.
