Alfalfa vs Grass Hay: Protein, Calcium and Which Animals Need Each

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On October 23, 2026

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Quick answer: Alfalfa (a legume) has much more protein (about 15–20%) and calcium than grass hay (often 6–12% protein), making it ideal for growing, milking and working animals. Grass hay is lower in protein and higher in fibre, suiting maintenance horses, adult rabbits and animals prone to weight gain. Many rations mix both.

Updated October 2026 · NDRG Kokal Enterprise, Sarawak, Malaysia

Key facts

Alfalfa protein	About 15–20%
Grass hay protein	About 6–12%
Calcium	Alfalfa much higher
Energy	Alfalfa higher
Best for alfalfa	Young, milking, working animals
Best for grass hay	Maintenance, weight control

Comparison table

Feature	Alfalfa	Grass hay
Type	Legume	Grass
Protein	15–20%	6–12%
Calcium	High	Low to moderate
Fibre	Moderate	Higher
Energy	Higher	Lower

Which animals need which?

Alfalfa: dairy cows and goats, young rabbits and growing stock, working horses.
Grass hay: adult rabbits, horses at maintenance, animals prone to obesity or urinary stones.
Mix: many farms combine both to balance protein and fibre.

Where alfalfa meal fits

Where good alfalfa hay is hard to find, alfalfa meal or pellets add its protein and calcium to rations. Read our alfalfa feeding guide or order alfalfa meal.

Frequently asked questions

Is alfalfa better than grass hay?

Not always. Alfalfa has more protein and calcium for growing and milking animals; grass hay suits maintenance and weight control.

Can rabbits eat alfalfa?

Young rabbits benefit from alfalfa; adult rabbits usually do better on grass hay with limited alfalfa.

Why is alfalfa high in calcium?

As a legume, alfalfa naturally accumulates more calcium than grasses.

Buy in bulk: request a wholesale quote from NDRG Kokal Enterprise, Siburan, Sarawak. Call or WhatsApp +60 13-739 1922 or email info@ndrgkokalenterprise.com.

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