Feeding Your Small Pet

Hay

Hay should make up about 75% of the diet of guinea pigs, chinchillas, and rabbits. The fiber in hay helps these critters maintain a healthy weight and is good for their teeth.

There are several varieties of hay to choose from, including Timothy, orchard hay and oat grass. The best hay for your pet might depend on exactly which kind of animal you have, so ask your vet or a PetSmart associate for help choosing.

Fresh fruits and vegetables

Many small pets, including rabbits, chinchillas and guinea pigs, enjoy a nice salad. Vegetables should make up about 20% of these rodents’ diets. Aim for a small serving every two days of dark, leafy greens such as kale, collards, mustard, dandelion, and escarole; or of zucchini, broccoli, squash or shredded carrots.

A little papaya, banana or melon about once a week can round out the last 5% of their diet.

Keep your small pet from turning into a too-big small pet by removing any fruits or vegetables that are still there four hours after you’ve served them.

Pellets

Commercial pellet food is the chow of choice for the smallest pet rodents, including rats, mice, hamsters and gerbils. (Rabbits, chinchillas and guinea pigs also like the occasional serving of pellets to balance out the hay and produce they eat.) Look for fortified pellets, which regulate calories and provide balanced nutrition.

Treats

Rodents love to gnaw. Treat sticks or chews will help keep their teeth healthy. A “mineral wheel” will ensure they’re getting vital nutrients.