Let’s examine their diet- Part 1 Hay

Image by Penny

Hay

Your guinea pigs should have constant access to a variety of high-quality grass hays. Hay offers numerous benefits, such as preventing obesity, reducing boredom, and minimizing dental and gastrointestinal issues. Changing the hay in your guinea pigs' habitat can lead to picky eating, so replace it only when it becomes soiled. Young (under six months), pregnant, nursing, or sick animals can benefit from lucerne (alfalfa) hay in addition to grass hay due to its higher nutritional content. Otherwise, alfalfa should be given sparingly as a treat.

FAQs about hay

Why is hay so important to my guinea pig?

1. Your guinea pigs' teeth continuously grow. Hay is crucial as it promotes normal chewing and dental wear, reducing the risk of dental disease.

2. In your guinea pigs' caecum, part of the intestinal tract, hay undergoes fermentation. This process produces volatile fatty acids and vitamins essential for your pets' well-being.

What type of hay should I feed?

Grass hay should constitute the majority of your guinea pigs' daily diet. Provide a variety of hay to ensure optimal health. Grass hays include Timothy hay, oat hay, orchard grass, and lucerne (alfalfa) hay. Lucerne hay has higher calcium levels than other hays, which can cause kidney and bladder stones, so it should be limited (or avoided) unless your guinea pigs are growing or pregnant.

Being a natural product, each bag of hay will vary in appearance and texture.

How much should I feed?

Typically, your guinea pig should consume a pile of hay twice the size of its body each day.