Sage-Tips

Is orchard grass or timothy hay better for guinea pigs?

Orchard hay is an excellent choice for guinea pig parents that are allergic to timothy hay or is wanting to provide some variety into their diet. The nutritional value of orchard hay is on par with timothy, only being slightly lower in protein, but has an exceptional fiber content.

What is the difference between timothy and orchard hay?

Timothy Hay is high in fibre and low in protein which is a combination critical to the health of rabbits and other small animals. Orchard grass is another cool-season grass; it grows in tufts and is more drought tolerant than Timothy hay. Orchard grass has a soft texture and is high in fibre and low in protein.

Is orchard grass OK for guinea pigs?

Orchard Grass, Oat Hay or Botanical Hay can be offered if your guinea pig will not eat timothy hay. Make sure your hay is green and smells fresh before buying.

Can guinea pigs eat timothy hay?

Timothy hay: Provide an unlimited quantity of fresh timothy hay every day. Guinea pigs need continuous access to hay to aid their digestion and limit the growth of their teeth. Fruit and vegetables: Fresh vegetables can be offered once a day and should be equivalent to about one cup total per guinea pig per day.

Which timothy hay is best for guinea pigs?

The 8 Best Timothy Hays for Your Pet Guinea Pig

1. Small Pet Select Timothy Hay. Buy on Amazon.
2. Oxbow Western Timothy Hay.
3. Standlee Premium Western Timothy Grass.
4. Kaytee Natural Timothy Hay.
5. Kaytee Timothy Hay Plus Variety Pack.
6. Kaytee Wafer-Cut Hay.
7. Vitakraft Fresh & Natural Timothy Hay.
8. Carefresh Timothy Hay.

Does timothy hay cause allergies?

About timothy grass Releasing its wind-borne pollen from spring to fall, Timothy grass (Phleum genus) is among the worst grass genera that cause hay fever in early summer. This species is second only to orchard grass in allergenicity among grasses, making it severely allergenic.

Is orchard grass softer than timothy hay?

Soft Orchard Grass is high in fiber and low in both protein and calcium. It is the softest type of hay we carry and makes a great alternative if you or your rabbit, guinea pig, or chinchilla are allergic to Timothy Hay.

Can guinea pigs eat rabbit timothy hay?

The Difference Between Alfalfa and Timothy Hay For all small herbivores – that’s rabbits, guinea pigs, chinchillas and degus – hay should make up around 80\% of the diet. When looking at which type of hay to feed a rabbit or guinea pig, Timothy hay and Meadow hay are often considered the better and healthier options.

What cut of timothy hay is best for guinea pigs?

First-cut timothy hay is high in fiber with a coarse texture. Second and third cuts are softer and more palatable. First-cut hay has more seed heads which guinea pigs love but are less nutritious. Look for second or third-cut timothy hay for your guinea pig.

Is Timothy hay good for guinea pigs?

The timothy hay is integrated into the pellet’s mix so you will still need to provide hay to your pet. Despite this composition, this guinea pig food product is still guaranteed to be a good pick for your pet. It can still provide the necessary nutrients they need to stay in top shape.

What kind of hay is best for guinea pigs?

Texture-wise the orchard hay is softer and finer than timothy hay, and some guinea pigs prefer this over the stalky bits in timothy hay. Bermuda hay is high in fibers, but not widely available in most countries. In some countries you may be able to find this type of hay, and if you do, it’s a great buy.

Can guinea pigs eat Bermuda hay?

The nutrition value is generally similar to timothy hay, and as such it will be easy for your guinea pigs to digest. As the name suggests, this type of hay is made from bermuda grass, which is commonly found in tropical and subtropical areas.

Can guinea pigs eat hay that smells bad?

If hay smells musty/moldy, there’s a good chance it’s turned bad, and you should avoid it completely. It can be dangerous for your guinea pigs to eat, especially if mold has been growing on the hay due to high levels of moisture in the room. Quality: There are different cuttings of hay: first, second, and third.