Feeding your rabbit the right pellets is one of the most important parts of keeping them healthy. While hay should always make up about 80% of a rabbit’s diet, pellets provide concentrated nutrition, added vitamins, and a convenient way to ensure your pet or meat rabbit gets everything they need. The challenge is that not all pellets are created equal—some are packed with fillers or too much protein, which can cause obesity and digestive issues. In this guide, we’ll review the best rabbit pellets, explain what to look for, and help you make the right choice. We’ll also remind you to use the Rabbit Cage Size Calculator to ensure your rabbit’s housing is just as healthy as their diet.
Quick Picks
- Best Overall: Oxbow Essentials Adult Rabbit Food – timothy hay–based pellets with balanced nutrition, recommended by vets worldwide.
- Best Budget: Manna Pro Small World Rabbit Pellets – affordable, fortified pellets for everyday feeding.
- Best Premium: Sherwood Pet Health Adult Rabbit Pellets – soy-free, non-GMO, premium nutrition for sensitive rabbits.
Buyer’s Guide – How to Choose the Best Rabbit Pellets
When shopping for rabbit pellets, here are the key things to keep in mind:
- Main Ingredient: Look for timothy hay or alfalfa hay (for young rabbits) as the first ingredient. Avoid corn, seeds, or fillers.
- Protein & Fiber: Adult rabbit pellets should be about 12–14% protein and at least 18% fiber.
- Added Nutrients: Good pellets include vitamins and minerals that supplement hay and greens.
- Freshness: Pellets should be greenish-brown, not dusty or moldy.
- Age-Specific: Young rabbits (under 6 months) need alfalfa-based pellets; adults should have timothy-based pellets.
💡 Healthy rabbits need both good food and proper housing. Use the Rabbit Cage Size Calculator to check that your rabbits have the right amount of space along with a balanced diet.
Full Product Reviews
Oxbow Essentials Adult Rabbit Food
Who it’s for: Adult rabbits needing a daily pellet to complement hay and greens.
- Key Benefits: Timothy hay–based, fortified with vitamins and minerals, no artificial colors or seeds.
- Pros: Vet-recommended, balanced nutrition, good for digestion.
- Cons: Slightly pricier than bulk pellets.
Final Verdict: The gold standard for adult rabbit pellets. Order on Amazon.
Manna Pro Small World Pellets
Who it’s for: Owners looking for affordable, bulk pellet feed.
- Key Benefits: Fortified with vitamins, economical, widely available.
- Pros: Great value, bulk sizes, suitable for multi-rabbit households.
- Cons: Lower quality than premium brands, contains some soybean meal.
Final Verdict: Best choice for budget-conscious rabbit owners. Check price.
Sherwood Pet Health Adult Rabbit Pellets
Who it’s for: Rabbits with sensitive stomachs or owners who want premium ingredients.
- Key Benefits: Soy-free, GMO-free, made with whole natural ingredients.
- Pros: Excellent for sensitive rabbits, high-quality nutrition, natural formula.
- Cons: More expensive than most options.
Final Verdict: A top-tier choice for dedicated rabbit owners. Buy here.
Kaytee Forti-Diet Pro Health Rabbit Food
Who it’s for: Pet owners wanting fortified pellets with probiotics.
- Key Benefits: Supports digestion, fortified with omega-3 and probiotics.
- Pros: Promotes coat health, budget-friendly, widely available.
- Cons: Includes some fillers, not as premium as Oxbow or Sherwood.
Final Verdict: A solid mid-range option. See it here.
Kaytee Supreme Rabbit Food
Who it’s for: Owners who want a simple pellet with no added extras.
- Key Benefits: Basic alfalfa and timothy blend pellets.
- Pros: Affordable, straightforward formula.
- Cons: Not as balanced as premium brands.
Final Verdict: Good starter option for single rabbits. Buy now.
Small Pet Select Rabbit Food Pellets
Who it’s for: Rabbit owners seeking fresh, small-batch pellets.
- Key Benefits: Made with timothy hay, delivered fresh, high fiber.
- Pros: Excellent quality, highly palatable, supports digestive health.
- Cons: Higher price point, only sold online.
Final Verdict: Excellent for picky eaters. Check on Amazon.
Comparison Table
| Product | Main Ingredient | Best For | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oxbow Essentials | Timothy Hay | Overall nutrition | See Price |
| Manna Pro | Alfalfa/Timothy Mix | Budget owners | See Price |
| Sherwood Pellets | Natural Timothy Blend | Sensitive rabbits | See Price |
| Kaytee Forti-Diet | Alfalfa & Timothy | Budget-friendly health | See Price |
| Kaytee Supreme | Alfalfa Blend | Basic diet | See Price |
| Small Pet Select | Fresh Timothy Hay | Premium freshness | See Price |
FAQ
How many pellets should I feed my rabbit?
For adult rabbits, a general guideline is about 1/4 cup of pellets per 5 lbs of body weight per day. The bulk of the diet should always be hay.
Are pellets necessary for rabbits?
While hay and greens are essential, pellets provide concentrated vitamins, minerals, and calories. They’re not strictly necessary but are highly recommended for balanced nutrition.
Can baby rabbits eat timothy pellets?
No. Young rabbits under 6 months should eat alfalfa-based pellets for extra protein and calcium to support growth.
Do pellets replace hay?
No. Hay should make up the majority of the diet. Pellets are a supplement, not a substitute.
Conclusion
Choosing the best rabbit pellets means looking for high fiber, timothy-based formulas with no fillers. Oxbow Essentials is the overall winner for adult rabbits, while Manna Pro offers budget value and Sherwood delivers premium quality. No matter which you choose, remember that hay remains the foundation of every rabbit’s diet.
👉 And don’t forget: rabbits need proper housing just as much as good food. Use the Rabbit Cage Size Calculator before buying or upgrading a hutch to ensure your rabbit has the space it needs to stay healthy and stress-free.
Take action today: Pick one of the trusted pellet brands above and pair it with secure, spacious housing for a happier, healthier rabbit.