Increasing Demand for Timothy Hay as Equine Feed Bolster Timothy Hay Market Growth
According to our latest study on " Timothy Hay Market Size and Forecast (2021–2031), Global and Regional Growth Opportunity Analysis – by product type, packaging type, source, and distribution channel," the market value is expected to grow from US$ 5.01 billion in 2024 to US$ 6.62 billion by 2031; it is estimated to register a CAGR of 4.1% during 2025–2031. The timothy hay market report highlights key factors driving the timothy hay market growth and prominent players along with their developments in the market.
The demand for timothy hay as equine feed is surging owing to its balanced nutritional value, moderate to low-calorie content, high fiber content, low calcium, and easily digestible nature than other hays. The high fiber content helps in maintaining proper digestion, preventing obesity, and supporting overall gut health, making it an essential part of a horse’s diet. It has a crude protein content of approximately 7-11%, which satisfies the protein requirements of young, adult, and older horses. Timothy hay is recommended for horses confined in stables as it offers more chewing time, miming their natural grazing habits of 10-15 hours a day. As a result, horse owners and trainers are adopting timothy hay to optimize their animal’s health and well-being. According to the World Population Review, the horse population in the US will be nearly 10.3 million in 2025. As more horse owners prioritize the health and well-being of their animals, timothy hay has become the preferred choice for overweight horses, who have metabolic issues and are prone to digestive problems such as colic. With increasing awareness about the risks associated with high-starch diets, equine caretakers are turning to timothy hay as a healthier, more natural alternative. It offers a balanced blend of fiber and energy that helps prevent metabolic disorders. It is particularly beneficial for horses with insulin resistance or laminitis conditions, common among older or less active horses. Thus, the increasing horse population and health benefits of timothy hay as equine feed drive the market growth.
Timothy Hay Market Breakdown – By Region
Timothy Hay Market Size and Forecast (2021 - 2031), Global and Regional Share, Trend, and Growth Opportunity Analysis Report Coverage: By Type (Timothy Hay Bales, Timothy Hay Pellets, and Timothy Hay Cubes), Application (Equine Feed, Cattle Feed, Rabbits, and Others), and Geography
Timothy Hay Market Report, Analysis, Opportunities by 2031
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The growing demand for organic timothy hay is owing to the preference for natural, chemical-free products among pet owners and equine caretakers. As consumers become more health-conscious, there is an increasing shift toward organic products for pets, including small mammals such as rabbits, guinea pigs, and horses. Organic timothy hay is highly valued for being free of pesticides, herbicides, and synthetic fertilizers, which aligns with the consumer desire for environmentally sustainable and ethically produced food options. It has gained popularity as a pet food due to the rising awareness about the health risks associated with conventionally grown hay, which may contain traces of harmful chemicals. The demand for organic pet feed reflects a broader movement toward clean, organic ingredients for pets. As small pet owners become more informed about the benefits of organic timothy hay, they are willing to pay for premium products.
The timothy hay market analysis has been performed by considering the following segments: type and application. Based on type, the market is segmented into timothy hay bales, timothy hay pellets, and timothy hay cubes. The timothy hay pellets segment is expected to register a significant CAGR from 2025 to 2031. By application, the market is segmented into equine feed, cattle feed, rabbits, and others. The equine feed segment is anticipated to hold a significant timothy hay market share in the coming years.
Timothy hay pellets are available in different sizes (small, medium, and large), quality (premium and standard), and packaging (bulk and retail). Small pellets are favored for pet consumption due to their ease of handling and portion control, while larger pellets are used in agricultural settings for bulk feeding. Timothy hay pellets are highly preferred due to their high fiber content, which promotes healthy digestion. The US dominates production, contributing more than 60% of the global supply, with exports reaching Canada, Japan, and parts of Europe. The rise in organic and non-GMO products has led to an increased demand for organic Timothy hay pellets, with consumers willing to pay a premium for quality and sustainability. The pet industry’s growth, coupled with rising awareness about proper animal nutrition, continues to drive the demand for timothy hay pellets.
In terms of revenue, North America dominated the timothy hay market share in 2024. The US is a major market for timothy hay in North America. The US is among the largest global producers of timothy hay, with major production states including Washington, Oregon, and Idaho. These states benefit from ideal growing conditions and advanced farming techniques, ensuring a steady supply of high-quality hay to meet domestic and international demand. As per the US Department of Agriculture, the total hay production in the US is 10 million tons annually, including timothy hay. The awareness regarding health benefits associated with timothy hay in small pets and equines is increasing in the nation. The country has large numbers of timothy hay producers owing to supportive climate conditions, and these producers are involved in the export and supply of timothy hay worldwide.
Among the timothy hay market trends include the surging demand for organic timothy hay. There is constant growth in the demand for organic timothy hay as equine feed, as horse owners seek high-quality, natural feeds to promote the health and well-being of their animals. Organic timothy hay offers better digestion, weight management, and a reduced risk of metabolic disorders, which are common in horses. As the use of organic farming practices and certification processes becomes easier, the availability of organic timothy hay is expected to increase, contributing to the demand for these premium products in pet and equine feed.
The timothy hay market forecast can help stakeholders plan their growth strategies. Douliere Hay France SAS, Green Prairie International Inc, Standlee Premium Products LLC, SL Follen Co, Anderson Hay & Grain Co Inc, M&C Hay LLC, Lucerne Farm, Cubeit Hay, Oxbow Animal Health, Old Manor Farm, Kaytee Products Inc, Zabeel Feed, Ward Rugh Inc, and The Gombos Company LLC are among the prominent players profiled in the timothy hay market report. These market players are focusing on providing high-quality products to fulfill customer demand. They are adopting strategies such as product launches, capacity expansions, partnerships, and collaborations to stay competitive in the market. In June 2022, Anderson Hay & Grain is expanding to offer US Department of Agriculture (USDA) certified organic timothy hay through its sister company, Andy by Anderson Hay. This new company offers high-quality hay and all-natural products for rabbits, guinea pigs, chinchillas, and other small pets.
The timothy hay market is segmented on the basis of type, application, and geography. Based on type, the market is segmented into timothy hay bales, timothy hay pellets, and timothy hay cubes. As per application, the market is segmented into equine feed, cattle feed, rabbits, and others. By geography, the timothy hay market is broadly segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, the Middle East & Africa, and South & Central America. The market in North America is subsegmented into the US, Canada, and Mexico. The market in Europe is subsegmented into Germany, France, the UK, Italy, Spain, and the Rest of Europe. The market in Asia Pacific is subsegmented into China, India, Japan, Australia, South Korea, and the Rest of Asia Pacific. The timothy hay market in the Middle East & Africa is subsegmented into South Africa, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and the Rest of the Middle East & Africa. The market in South & Central America is segmented into Brazil, Argentina, and the Rest of South & Central America.
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