🥕 Vet-Approved Guide to Daily Hay Intake for Rabbits & Guinea Pigs in 2025 🐹

Author: Dr Duncan Houston BVSc

Hay is the cornerstone of a healthy diet for rabbits and guinea pigs. As we move into 2025, understanding the importance of hay, its types, and proper feeding practices is essential for your pet's well-being. 🐾

📏 How Much Hay Should They Eat?

Both rabbits and guinea pigs should have unlimited access to fresh hay daily. A general guideline is to provide a pile of hay at least the size of your pet's body each day. This ensures they receive adequate fiber for digestion and dental health. 🐰🐹

🌾 Importance of Hay in Their Diet

• Dental Health: Continuous chewing on hay helps wear down their ever-growing teeth, preventing dental issues.
• Digestive Health: High-fiber hay promotes healthy gut motility, reducing the risk of gastrointestinal stasis.
• Mental Stimulation: Foraging through hay provides enrichment, keeping your pet mentally engaged.

🍃 Types of Hay

• Timothy Hay: Ideal for adult rabbits and guinea pigs due to its balanced fiber and protein content.
• Orchard Grass: A softer, sweeter alternative that adds variety to their diet.
• Meadow Hay: Contains a mix of grasses and herbs, offering diverse textures and flavors.
• Oat Hay: Features crunchy seed heads that many pets enjoy.
• Alfalfa Hay: Higher in calcium and protein; suitable for young, pregnant, or nursing animals but should be limited for adults.

🧺 Storage and Freshness

Store hay in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain its freshness. Ensure proper ventilation to prevent mold growth. Always check for signs of spoilage before feeding. 🧼

🎯 Tips for Encouraging Hay Consumption

• Mix different types of hay to keep your pet interested.
• Place hay in various locations within their enclosure to promote natural foraging behavior.
• Use hay-based toys or hide treats within hay to make feeding time fun and engaging.

📱 Additional Resources

• Visit AskAVet.com for expert advice. 🌐
• Download the Ask A Vet app for personalized tips and reminders. 📲
• Explore Woopf and Purrz for enrichment tools and community support. 🐾

🎉 Conclusion

Providing unlimited, fresh hay is vital for the health and happiness of your rabbit or guinea pig. By understanding their dietary needs and preferences, you can ensure they thrive in 2025 and beyond. 🐰❤️🐹

For more tips and resources, don't forget to check out AskAVet.com and download the Ask A Vet app today! 🐾