Hay is a great alternative for gerbil bedding. It provides essential vitamins and minerals that are important for their overall health. It contains several different types of grasses, flower and seed heads, and plants, which provide a mentally enriching experience for your gerbil every time it nibbles on it. Gerbils. Gerbils are best kept in an aquarium. Bearded dragons; Frogs; Geckos; Snakes; Turtles; Search. Well discuss the nutritional values of alfalfa hay compared to other types of hay, as well as the potential drawbacks of feeding alfalfa hay to gerbils. If you watch gerbils interact with hay, you will see that they spend most of their time chewing it into smaller bits.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'pocketpetcentral_com-large-mobile-banner-2','ezslot_7',110,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-pocketpetcentral_com-large-mobile-banner-2-0'); Consider the following for your gerbil to chew: When picking paper products, avoid those with ink, and avoid wood products that contain glue (like corrugated cardboard or particleboard). Orchard hay is a good option too because it has a higher vitamin A content than other types of hay. Can Gerbils Eat Beef Jerky? Negative Effects On Gerbils! - My Rare Pets Ultimately, any type of grass hay is suitable for gerbils. Too much of any food is bad for gerbils, as it leaves them vulnerable to nutritional deficiencies. Why do some people think Gerbils Do Not Need Hay? You can also find Timothy Hay at local feed stores, as well as large retail stores like Walmart and Target. Too much hay is also not good for the gerbils. Gerbils must be able to dig through their substrate, so mix hay with aspen shavings and paper-based bedding to enable them to carry out this natural behavior. Hay contains vital vitamins and minerals, as well as dietary fiber which helps to maintain digestive health while providing enrichment to prevent boredom. It will not be toxic for the gerbils to have alfalfa hay. As it contains too much of such nutrients, giving a high amount of alfalfa hay can be problematic for the gerbils health. Hay is particularly beneficial for gerbils because it contains high levels of fiber, which helps keep their digestive system running smoothly. The gerbils stomach is relatively small and its intestines are long, allowing it to extract the most nutrients from the hay it eats. So you need to get some hay for their bedding which will absorb the moisture as well as can be chewed by the gerbils. Yes. As with most things, moderation is key. You do not have to offer it every time. alfalfa hay | The Gerbil Forum - ProBoards It can even exceed a cow's nutritional needs. The hay is fairly fragrant, so it may make the cage smell much more pleasant. Meadow hay provides a good balance of nutrients while orchard hay is low in calcium but rich in antioxidants which can help boost immunity. When looking for some in a pet store, make sure its free from dust and mold and looks green and fresh. The potential drawbacks of using Timothy hay as bedding are that it can be more expensive than other types of bedding materials. Gerbil Health and Illnesses: Common gerbil health issues and how to prevent them, How to Train Your Gerbil: Teaching your gerbil fun tricks and commands. These hays are high in fiber which helps keep the digestive system running efficiently. Your email address will not be published. Gerbils also use hay for bedding. These are called open-rooted teeth, and they continuously grow more tooth tissue.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'pocketpetcentral_com-large-mobile-banner-1','ezslot_6',109,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-pocketpetcentral_com-large-mobile-banner-1-0'); We use nail trimmers to keep our nails short, but gerbils chew on hard things to keep their teeth from becoming overgrown. However, with so many hay varieties, it can be hard to know which ones are safe. Can gerbils have this. You may not have thought about pigs when you think about hay eaters but pot-bellied pigs can have alfalfa hay in their diets. It is incredibly high in protein at around 20%, which is higher than most other feeds. . Its left to dry before being harvested and stored, which gives it a tougher, more fibrous texture than fresh grass. Other types of hay available for purchase include orchard hay, alfalfa hay, and oat hay. Enticing nesting material for hamsters and gerbils : Convenient way to introduce variety to your pets : Contains a blend of hay varieties grown and harvested together : PDF Gerbil Care Sheet - Small Angels Rescue Hay - hay is an excellent bedding option for gerbils as it is easy . The most common types of hay that are safe for gerbils include Timothy, meadow, alfalfa, and orchard hay. Most are good for your gerbil but some can be bad. With so many different types of hay available on the market today, it can be difficult to know which one will best suit your pets needs. I thought that they could as I have read that this and timothy hay are both good for gerbils. Commercial Timothy hay contains the stem, leaf, and seed head all of which are excellent for keeping your gerbils teeth healthy. Should only be used as a treat for full-grown small animals! If you decide you want to buy some hay for them, we will let you know which kinds are ideal for your cute gerbils. They contain fiber, potassium, vitamin, Gerbils are omnivores, so they can eat animal and plant-based foods. It is high in fiber and low in protein, which helps to maintain a healthy digestive system. Straw can be too brittle and pointy. Gerbils do not need hay in their diet. Instead, purchase gerbil-safe hay from a pet store and put it into your pets enclosure as its sold. The treats they eat are also favorites of their rodent cousins. Because it is softer hay, people often use it as a treat hay. I have a story to tell about it in another informative gerbil article. Hay is cut when grass is mature. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. The type of hay you choose should also be appropriate for your gerbils dietary needs. Just make sure you monitor your pets diet closely when introducing any new food item into their diet! Overall, introducing hay to gerbils is a great way to provide them with extra nutrition and enrichment. To ensure your gerbil stays healthy and happy, make sure to give them access to fresh hay, pellets, vegetables, and water. They will chew on hay as a way to sharpen their teeth. It provides a comfortable and natural environment for your gerbil to live in. They had plenty of practice doing so in sandy environments, so it is as natural to them as breathing. Do you have a gerbil at home and want to make sure they're getting the best nutrition? It also helps to sooth them when they are stressed or scared. Required fields are marked *. Adding Timothy hay to your gerbil's food mix is a great way to provide them with the fiber they need and keep their digestive system running smoothly. If youre unsure which hay variety to choose, there are several things to look out for that indicate quality, such as: Hay also varies in quality from season to season, so choosing a more expensive brand ensures the best hay, regardless of when you buy it. Straw does not provide any nutritional value to gerbils and is not as soft or comfortable for them as hay. They can have this daily while they are playing or awake. When selecting a bedding material for your gerbils enclosure, it is important to choose one that is safe and non-toxic. Straw, on the other hand, can be too stiff and sharp, making it uncomfortable and potentially dangerous for gerbils to use as bedding. Gerbils love to chew something for the whole day and timothy hay is an ideal product for them. According toJAX, this is known as an open-rooted tooth. Usually, the package is dusty free so it will not be fussy or cause a respiratory problem for the gerbils. Timothy hay is a type of grass that is dried and used as bedding or food for small animals like rabbits, guinea pigs, chinchillas, hamsters, and gerbils. Timothy hay is high in fiber which helps to keep the intestines working properly and prevents constipation. Pasture and Forage Minute: Drought-stunted Alfalfa Options, Bluegrass Gerbils; Reptiles. Gerbil FAQ. When it comes to nutritional value, oat hay is comparable to other types of hay such as timothy hay. As long as you are providing your gerbil with healthy, well-balanced foods (more about that in a bit), you never have to give them any hay. Misconceptions about gerbils dietary needs can arise from the fact that they are omnivores. First, youll want to make sure the hay is fresh and free from dust or mold. Sometimes their stomach gets upset and their digestive system gets disturbed. Should gerbils have timothy hay? It is important to make sure they have constant access to gerbil food so they do not depend on eating hay when they are hungry. If you notice any discoloration or a musty smell coming from your stored hay, discard it immediately as this could indicate that mold or bacteria has grown on the hay and could be dangerous for your gerbil to ingest. Maybe you are already buying plenty of treats for your gerbils and wonder, do gerbils need hay? The fragrant smell of timothy hay is really alluring for the gerbils. Timothy or meadow grass are better options for older gerbils since they contain less calcium than alfalfa hay. a problem if you show your gerbils. If they have nothing to chew on, then their teeth will overgrow, resulting in painful eating, or gum or mouth damage, including teeth that grow through their jaws. Finally, hay is also safer than some types of bedding materials because it doesnt contain any toxins or chemicals that could harm your gerbil if ingested. To make hay more appealing for picky eaters, you can try mixing it with other foods such as seeds or pellets. What Do Gerbils Eat? Complete Guide To The Gerbil Diet - Misfit Animals Timothy hay is low in protein and fat, but high in fiber, so it is an excellent choice for gerbils. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. When setting up a gerbil enclosure, it is best practice to use a mixture of different types of bedding materials. Hay will also contain pests and parasites which will harm your gerbils if they were to get in your cage. DIET Commercial gerbil food will provide your gerbil with a balanced diet and is available at pet supply stores. Overall, when selecting the right kind of hay for your gerbil, its important to consider their dietary needs as well as the quality of the product you are buying. Health, Ailments and Diseases. They enjoy burrowing and exploring their environment, so its important to provide them with plenty of hay to keep them healthy and happy. Substrate, sand and . Can gerbils eat banana? Breeding, Pups, and Sexing Gerbils. Overall, hay can be an important part of your gerbils diet as it provides them with essential nutrients and something to chew on which can help keep them healthy and happy! Do They Like Them? It is also a great way to relieve boredom. Hay is good for their nutrition but the gerbils should not eat hay if they are having diarrhea. If you're looking to purchase Timothy Hay for your gerbil, there are a variety of places to purchase it. Hay is a crucial component of a gerbil's diet because it helps keep their teeth healthy and provides them with vital nutrients. Grass from your yard isnt healthy. Do Gerbils Eat Hay? Is It Safe For Them? - HomePetHelp Hello i am Jason, I'm the guy behind HomePetHelp.com I work full time as a trainee veterinarian and I created this site to help advise on the pets I care for. How Much Beef Jerky is Given To Gerbils Per Day? . Gerbils eat a similar diet to that of a hamster. The hay adds extra fiber to the formulated pellets, grass, and vegetables. Dr. Anna is certified, professional Veterinary Doctor. A gerbils digestive system is designed to process hay and other plant-based food sources. Its a well-known type of hay sold in most supermarkets and pet stores, so its easy to get hold of. Oat hay is a popular type of hay that is often fed to small animals such as gerbils. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'pocketpetcentral_com-leader-2','ezslot_8',128,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-pocketpetcentral_com-leader-2-0');Gerbils can construct strong tunnels by using a variety of materials. This rich, dense, delicious hay is sure to be gobbled up in no time. You should also look for hay thats high in fiber and low in sugar and protein. Some gerbils may be sensitive to the dust found in certain brands of Timothy hay which can cause respiratory problems if inhaled in large quantities over time. Hay is a much better option because it provides some nutritional value and is softer and more natural for your pet gerbil. In addition, gerbils adore making their nests out of it and will eat it anytime they choose. It should be supplemented with pellets and vegetables, and occasional treats may be given as a reward. Other Gerbil Species. Seeds and pellets may contain some vitamins and minerals but they lack the same amount of fiber found in hay. Also, gerbils require 9 different amino acids to stay healthy and these can be obtained from fresh foods such as seeds, soybeans, and alfalfa which are much healthier for them than preservative-ridden treats like beef jerky. Gerbils can have straws, but it is not the best option for them. In conclusion, hay is an essential part of a gerbils diet and should be included in their daily meal plan. Make sure to buy enough hay so you dont run out between purchases this will ensure your gerbil always has access to fresh food! [Gerbil Tail Slip Prevention Guide], Beta carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A. It provides essential nutrients while also helping to keep your pet entertained and active. Alfalfa hay can be fed to small pets (in accordance with your veterinarian). Now go ahead and give your furry friend some fresh Timothy or meadow hay today! Too much alfalfa hay can lead to obesity in gerbils if not monitored carefully. It is also important to ensure that the hay is free from dust or mold before feeding it to your pet. Yes, gerbils need hay for their regular meal. Yes, alfalfa hay is good option for the gerbils. When you purchase timothy hay, you can get one of three cuttings. Its safe for gerbils to eat and can also be used as a reliable bedding material. When comparing straw versus hay as bedding for gerbils, hay is the clear winner. and more. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[120,600],'shrewdnia_com-large-mobile-banner-2','ezslot_8',110,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-shrewdnia_com-large-mobile-banner-2-0');if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[120,600],'shrewdnia_com-large-mobile-banner-2','ezslot_9',110,'0','1'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-shrewdnia_com-large-mobile-banner-2-0_1'); .large-mobile-banner-2-multi-110{border:none !important;display:block !important;float:none !important;line-height:0px;margin-bottom:15px !important;margin-left:auto !important;margin-right:auto !important;margin-top:15px !important;max-width:100% !important;min-height:600px;padding:0;text-align:center !important;}If you're looking to purchase Timothy Hay for your gerbil, there are a variety of places to purchase it. Its also important to check the hay regularly for signs of mold or bacterial growth. Hay is an important part of their diet, as it helps support their digestive system and overall health. A weekly handful of hay will benefit your gerbil nutritionally, so its fine to feed it in moderation. In addition to hay, gerbils need a diet of fresh vegetables and small amounts of protein. Some people may have allergies to handling oat hay so its important to wear gloves when handling it or feeding it to your pet. If you can provide the pet with the premium Timothy hay cubes then it will be ideal for their health. Hay should never be a substitute for a balanced diet of pellets, fresh vegetables and occasional treats. {A Variety Of Color Changes Explained}, Is Cloth Safe For Hamsters? There's bedding material out there that's not suitable for a gerbil. Some gerbils have sensitives to Timothy hay, so orchard hay is a good alternative. Alfalfa hay contains nutrients like fiber, vitamin E, beta-carotene, Thiamin, and Riboflavin. Gerbils have the habit of chewing the bedding material. You should make sure that the hay is fresh and free from mold or other contaminants. While they do require grains, vegetables, and proteins to maintain a balanced diet, it is important to note that hay should also be included in their daily meals. When it comes to nutritional value, meadow hay is comparable to other types of grass hays such as timothy or orchard grass. Good quality Timothy hay is one of the best kinds for gerbils. While captive gerbils primarily eat high-quality dry food, adding fresh greens to their diet is a good way to provide them with additional vitamins and minerals., Gerbils enjoy eating berries because they're sweet and tasty. Seeds tend to be high in fat which can lead to weight gain if eaten in large quantities. Our alfalfa hay is high in calories and nutrients for young & growing small pets. Cheese is a foodstuff that's made from milk. Hay helps keep your gerbils cage clean by absorbing urine and other messes. Overall, providing your gerbil with plenty of fresh Timothy, meadow, alfalfa, or orchard hay will help keep them healthy and happy! In conclusion, providing your gerbil with the right type of bedding is essential for their health and well-being. Orchard hay is a type of grass hay that is safe for gerbils to consume. Hay is high in fiber, which helps keep the gerbils' digestive system running efficiently. Top answer: Usually, the first hay mentioned when talking about hay and gerbils is timothy. It is important that they do not eat to much hay as it will upset their tummys and give them diarrhea. Yes, gerbils can eat hay. However, that doesn't mean that you should. Sweet and tasty, you may want to share some slices or chopped-up chestnuts with your gerbil. Consider bedding made of absorbent materials, such as: The fumes from pine and cedar shavings are dangerous to gerbils, so avoid using them. Timothy hay is one of the most popular types of hay for gerbils and other small animals, but is it really good for them? Amazon.com : Blue Mountain Hay | 15 oz. Fresh Alfalfa Hay | Available Some people may believe that gerbils do not need hay in their diet because it is often used as bedding for them. For example, while fruits and vegetables are nutritious for gerbils, they also contain sugar which can be unhealthy in large amounts. It has a high fiber content, which helps to keep their digestive systems healthy. Food. Don't overfeed your gerbil hay, as it can cause diarrhea. In comparison to other food sources such as seeds or pellets, hay has much higher levels of fiber which makes it a better choice for supporting a gerbils digestive system. It is important to choose hay that is high-quality and free from dust and mold. Hay keeps their dental health in good condition. Remove any uneaten forage if it becomes wet, damp or soiled. Also, the ever-increasing incisor tooth of the gerbils needs something to chew always which will keep the growth in check. According to what I have experienced, hay is preferable than straw since you may offer more of it. Alfalfa hay can be fed to rabbits, guinea pigs, chinchillas, gerbils, hamsters, and other small pets in accordance with your veterinarian's recommendations. Some hay such as alfalfa has calcium in it which is good for your gerbil . Oat Hay Chow Time Commercial gerbil food will provide your gerbil with a balanced diet and is available at pet supply stores. This can also be used for bedding purposes in the gerbils cage. This makes it an ideal choice for gerbils since they require higher levels of protein in their diets. Ger. Because gerbils can burrow underneath the hay, it makes an ideal addition to whatever bedding you use. No. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'pocketpetcentral_com-leader-1','ezslot_5',108,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-pocketpetcentral_com-leader-1-0'); Just because we dont need something doesnt mean we cant have it. It is made from the stems, leaves, and seed heads of oats. They dont require a lot of care, but they do need hay for their diet. Gerbils, like all rodents, have front teeth (incisors) that never stop growing. From your moderators! Its natural, easy to dig through, and provides a comfortable environment for your pet. Even oat hay and botanical hay is good for the gerbils. It also has higher levels of calcium and phosphorus than other food sources, which are important for bone health. Kept as pets, your gerbils need a good quality, balanced diet specifically for gerbils, and it should contain all the nutrients and minerals they need. However, with so many hay varieties, it can be hard to know which ones are safe. If your gerbils dont like timothy hay, then look into this alternative. . It is also great for foraging and nesting, which can help keep your gerbil entertained. Announcements. It has a pleasant aroma that will help keep your gerbils cage smelling fresh. Some hay such as alfalfa has calcium in it which is good for your gerbil, but only when eaten in small portions. Your email address will not be published. The most common types of hay available for gerbils are Timothy, meadow, alfalfa, and orchard hay. Hay is an important part of the gerbil diet, as it is high in fiber and helps to keep the digestive system running efficiently. What can gerbils eat list? Its better for baby gerbils, as its high in calcium and protein, which support their growth and development. We'll answer questions like "What is hay? ", "Can gerbils eat hay?" So you need to get some hay for their bedding which will absorb the moisture as well as can be chewed by the gerbils. Hay is an important part of this diet, as it provides essential fiber and other nutrients that gerbils need. As we have already mentioned that if you get the hay from the back yard then it would not be ideal for the gerbils to have it, as it may lead them to consume some chemicals along with the hay. Additionally, check to make sure the hay is fresh and free of mold or dust. While gerbils enjoy the taste of hay, they dont have to eat it. Avoid any hays that contain pesticides or other chemicals as these can be toxic to your pet. Hay isnt the only food source available to gerbils. You can supplement your gerbil's diet with puffed wheat, dried bananas, unsalted peanuts, unsalted sunflower seeds, dried kidney beans, dried lima beans, dried lentils, dried black-eyed peas and alfalfa hay. Lets look through this much more simply together. . Behavior and Introducing. Guide Gerbils Housing Gerbils Should Gerbils Have Hay? Insects like mealworms are a great source of protein as well. Before adding any hay in to the cage make sure to freeze it for two days in your freezer as this will kill the pests and parasites. By providing them with hay you will encourage their natural eating habit. We hope this article has provided valuable insight into why hay is beneficial for gerbils and how you can use it properly when setting up their enclosure. To ensure your gerbil stays healthy and happy, make sure to give them access to fresh hay, pellets, vegetables, and water. This hay can actually engage the gerbils for long hours and make their teeth growth balanced. If a guinea pig needs hay, wouldn't a gerbil need hay? If you are researching which substitute to use for bedding in your gerbil cage you might be thinking, can you use hay in a gerbil cage? As hay contains more fiber than grass, this is mostly used by the owners to provide them with the right amount of fiber. The branded packet of Timothy hay like the Western Timothy will be very much liked by the gerbils. Carefresh is another good option, as it is made from recycled paper and is soft and absorbent. Overall, orchard hay is a safe and nutritious option for gerbils if you can find it at your local pet store. Acorns: They are toxic for gerbils. Thats because gerbils have incisors that dont stop growing. Alfalfa hay also contains: However, because of these high nutrient levels, alfalfa hay is problematic in large quantities, so you must be careful with how much you feed your gerbil in one go. The same is true for gerbils. Not all hay is safe for gerbils to nibble on. Gerbils do not need hay to live, but they do benefit from chewing on timothy hay. It provides a change of texture for gerbils to explore and enjoy, so feed it alongside other hay varieties to provide maximum mental stimulation. Alfalfa hay should be avoided since it is high in protein, fiber and fat and is better suited to baby hamsters, pregnant hamsters, or hamsters that need to put on weight. Its high protein content is especially beneficial for growing babies, pregnant, and. This will ensure that your gerbil gets all the nutrients they need while still enjoying variety in their meals! Thank you for visiting PocketPetCentral.com for the best information to help you enjoy the life of your pocket pet companion in a fun, safe & healthy way. Gerbils are small, furry rodents that make great pets for people of all ages. Gerbils love eating oat hay because it contains immature seed heads. So a handful of hay is enough to last a week for the gerbils. Timothy hay contains healthy fats and proteins. Like every living, If youre recently adopted a gerbil, youre probably wondering what food to give them. Using hay for your gerbils' bedding can be an excellent option - it mimics what they would have in a natural environment, and provides them with something to chew on when they fancy a bit of variety. Thats why well explore some of the best types of hay for gerbils. Orchard hay is both healthy and nutritious. Additionally, hay provides them with chewing opportunities, which can help keep their teeth healthy and sharp. Hay is a type of animal feed made from dried grass, legumes, and other herbaceous plants. Just remember that each individual animal may have different nutritional needs so always consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your pets diet! Theyll have a fantastic time making nests, jumping in and out, and running about the cage with it. Gerbils have the habit of chewing the bedding material. Hay Wheat Pumpkin seeds Alfalfa Oats Soya bean Flax seeds Dried carrot flakes The most common types of hay that can be used are timothy hay, orchard hay, alfalfa hay, and meadow hay. The answer is yes! Overall, hay is an important part of a gerbils diet as it provides essential fiber for proper digestion as well as vitamins and minerals that help support their immune system and overall health. Gerbils do not need hay for food. As mentioned, hay has a fibrous texture. Consider mixing alfalfa hay with other premium Blue . You might see your gerbil chew the hay, but do gerbils eat hay? The main benefit of using hay as bedding for gerbils is that its all-natural and simple for them to burrow through. Additionally, it provides essential vitamins and minerals such as calcium and phosphorus which help maintain strong bones and teeth.
