Will my piggies eat less pellets once they start eating hay?

[clotho]

Hi there

I was just wondering if cavies eat less of their pellet food once they have unlimited hay available?

We have had two cavies for almost a year now - and we "accidently" had babies so now we have five altogether. We fell in love with the babies and I have been doing all sorts of research online to try to give all our piggies the best possible care. We have now made two huge C&C cages - one for the boys and one for the girls - and they are very happy. I managed to find someone who will sell me timothy hay by the bale for $3!!! I am very excited about that - I pick it up today and I am certain my piggies will be verrrry happy!!!!!!

I am hoping they might eat less of the more expensive pellets once they get their hay. Thought I would ask what other people's experience has been with that.

Thanks!
clotho

[VoodooJoint]

Often the GPs will eat less pellets if they have unlimited hay.

Guinea Pigs and other small herbivores are designed to eat almost constantly to keep their digestive tract moving. If they don't have hay to eat they will eat the pellets instead which will lead to obesity, poor nutrition and health/teeth problems.

Once you have the hay you can start limiting their pellets. GPs only need about 1/8th of a cup a day so if they keep overeating feel free to give them measured amounts.

[clotho]

Thank you so much for the reply!!! My piggies are enjoying the hay SO much!!! I will start measuring their pellets like you suggested. This site is awesome!!! I have learned SO much about my guinea pigs - and I am very happy to be able to give them the nutrition and the space that they need (and deserve!!!) Thanks again!!!