Rabbits and guinea pigs require high-quality nutrition in order to stay happy and healthy.
Their dietary needs may seem simple to those unfamiliar with these furry-friends, but there are key components needed in order to feed your small pets a healthy and balanced diet. Getting this right is key to their well-being!
Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of feeding your small pets the correct food and making every mealtime enjoyable!
Why Hay is a Hero
For rabbits and guinea pigs alike, hay isn’t just a snack: it should be the number one component of their diet. It plays a vital role in their overall health and wellbeing, from maintaining great and healthy teeth to aiding digestion.
- Dental Health: Hay helps wear down their ever-growing teeth naturally, preventing painful overgrowth or dental disease
- Digestive Benefits: Packed with fibre, hay helps keep their digestive systems in tip-top shape
- Mental Enrichment: The act of nibbling on hay encourages natural foraging behavior, preventing boredom
Timothy hay is an excellent choice for both rabbits and guinea pigs. Timothy hay typically boasts high protein and high fibre, with a coarse texture that your pets will love.
Also, it’s key to take into consideration high-quality pet hay that’s dust extracted as it can make a world of difference in terms of palatability.
If you are eco-conscious as we all should be, then ensure that it is barn-dried using renewable energy such as solar panels. Anyway, let’s dive in more:
Similar but Different Diets
While rabbits and guinea pigs share a love for hay, fresh leafy greens, and a sprinkle of pellets daily, their specific needs differ in key ways.
The most significant difference lies in Vitamin C. Guinea pigs cannot produce this vital nutrient naturally, so their diet must include Vitamin C-rich foods such as bell peppers or spinach. Guinea pig specific pellets are also a great option.
Rabbits, on the other hand, can produce their own Vitamin C and don’t require foods high in it.
When it comes to fruit, both species can enjoy an occasional treat. Always remember to keep portions small, as too much sugar can be harmful to both rabbits and guinea pigs.
Types of Hay: Which is Best for Your Pet?
Different hay types bring different health benefits, so let’s compare timothy hay, meadow hay, ryegrass hay and alfalfa hay,to help you pick the perfect option for your furry friends.
Timothy Hay
This is the gold standard for rabbits and guinea pigs. High in fibre and high in protein, it supports dental and digestive health. Timothy hay typically has coarse, long stems and is sweet to taste – making it a hit with the small pet community.
Best For: Rabbits and guinea pigs.
Pro Tip: To encourage your small pets to eat more hay, try incorporating hay feeders and toys to their daily routine. Watch them have fun, whilst nibbling more hay!
Meadow Hay
A softer hay which is typically a mix of various, traditional meadow grasses. Meadow Hay is high in fibre to support dental and digestive health, whilst being extremely palatable.
Best For: Rabbits and guinea pigs.
Pro Tip: Due to its soft texture, it also pairs as a great bedding hay too!
Ryegrass Haye
Known for its palatability and fibre content, ryegrass hay is a great option to feed alongside Timothy Hay and Meadow Hay. It’s great for enrichment and additional nutrition too, suiting the fussiest of small pets!
Best For: Rabbits and guinea pigs who need variety or softer hay.
Pro Tip: Sprinkle a handful of Ryegrass Hay on top of Timothy or Meadow Hay to encourage foraging
Alfalfa Hay
Rich in protein and calcium, alfalfa hay is best suited for young rabbits, growing (up to 6 months) or pregnant small pets to support health and development.
Best For: Young, growing rabbits or guinea pigs, or pregnant/nursing pets
Pro Tip: Adult pets can enjoy small amounts of Alfalfa Hay, however we would recommend that the majority of their diet consist of Timothy or Meadow Hay
Everyday Essentials for Small Pets
Ensuring you feed the correct diet for your small pets can go a long way in ensuring your pets thrive:
- 80% to 90% of their diet should consist of high-quality hay
- 5-10% pet specific pellets
- 5-10% leafy greens and vegetables
- Provide fresh, clean water daily
It’s recommended to schedule regular exotic vet check-ups to ensure your small pets are nice and healthy.
By focusing on a diet built around hay, fresh veggies, and just the right amount of pellets, you’re setting your furry friends up for a long, happy, and healthy life.
So, go ahead and enjoy the sound of nibbling hay, binkying and popcorning – it’s a sign you’re doing everything right!