Hay 101: The Unsung Hero of Guinea Pig Health

When it comes to guinea pig care, there’s one word you’ll hear over and over again: hay. And with good reason. Hay isn’t a side dish—it’s the main course, the enrichment zone, the dental tool, the nap nest, and the snacking soulmate. If you're new to piggy parenthood or just want a refresher, here’s your crash course in all things hay.

Why hay isn’t just bedding—it’s a lifeline.

When it comes to guinea pig care, there’s one word you’ll hear over and over again: hay. And with good reason. Hay isn’t a side dish—it’s the main course, the enrichment zone, the dental tool, the nap nest, and the snacking soulmate. If you're new to piggy parenthood or just want a refresher, here’s your crash course in all things hay.

Why Hay Is So Important

Hay should make up about 80% of your guinea pig’s daily diet. That’s not an exaggeration. Hay is:

• High in fiber – Keeps digestion smooth and prevents GI stasis

• Essential for dental health – Constant chewing wears down ever-growing teeth

• Mentally stimulating – Foraging keeps piggies active and curious

• Comforting and cozy – They nest in it, burrow through it, and snack while lounging

Think of it as their personal buffet and living room carpet.

What Type of Hay Should You Use?

Here’s a quick rundown:

Hay Type	Best For	Notes
Timothy Hay	Adult guinea pigs	The gold standard—high fiber, low calcium
Orchard Grass	Piggies with hay allergies	Softer, sweet-smelling alternative
Meadow Hay	Picky eaters who love variety	Mixed grasses = snack adventure!
Alfalfa	Pregnant, nursing, or young piggies	Higher in calcium and protein—not for adults daily

Pro Tip: Mix timothy and orchard grass for a little texture surprise!

Hay Should Smell Good!

Fresh hay should smell sweet and earthy. If it smells musty, moldy, or dusty, toss it. Always store hay in a cool, dry place—not sealed airtight, or it might mold.

Hay Isn’t Bedding

While guinea pigs love to play and lie in hay, it doesn’t replace proper bedding like paper-based litter or fleece liners. Hay on top of your bedding? Great! Hay as your bedding? Not ideal.

How to Make Hay Fun

Keep hay fresh and exciting by rotating how you serve it:

• Stuff it into hay racks, toilet paper rolls, or fleece pouches

• Scatter it across their habitat for foraging

• Create a cozy hay pile hideaway—perfect for chewing and snoozing

Hay + Hygiene = Happy Herd

Keep hay areas clean and dry. Wet or soiled hay should be removed daily, or it can quickly grow mold and bacteria. No one likes soggy snacks.

In Summary

Hay isn’t a treat—it’s a necessity. Keeping it fresh, abundant, and fun is one of the best things you can do for your guinea pig’s health and happiness.

Give them all the hay—and then give them a little more. 💚