Hay forms the basis of a guinea pig’s diet and is vital for good digestion and dental health. Your guinea pigs should always have unlimited access to hay. To keep it appealing, you can offer different types, such as timothy hay, herbal hay, mountain meadow hay or compressed hay. Hay houses or hay blocks are also a great supplement. By alternating or mixing types, guinea pigs stay interested and are more likely to eat enough hay.
Hay for rodents
There are many types of hay, each with its own structure and flavour, so you can always find something suitable.
- Compressed hay: compact bales that save space, keep hay fresher for longer and are often more economical. Also ideal as nesting material.
- Herbal hay: enriched with dried herbs such as chamomile, mint or dandelion. Makes hay extra tasty and encourages rodents to eat plenty.
- Timothy hay: coarse, fibrous hay with a low calcium content, especially suitable for guinea pigs prone to bladder problems.
- Hay blocks: compact blocks of compressed hay or edible cardboard filled with hay. Provide fibre, chewing and play fun.
You can offer hay in different ways: loose in the enclosure, in a hay rack, or inside a toy. This prevents it from getting dirty and makes eating more fun and stimulating. Placing hay in several spots encourages natural foraging behaviour and motivates guinea pigs to nibble throughout the day.
For other rodents (such as hamsters, mice and rats), hay is less important as food but excellent as nesting material. They use it to make their nests soft and warm and may nibble on it too. Provide it loose or in small tufts so they can arrange it themselves.