My vet's comments on some of the hays were a bit contradictory to the info I have found on this site so I wanted to post what he said and get others' opinions.
The vet is a known exotics vet in my area and came highly recommended by @Paula. He seems pretty knowledgeable. He said that he has tested the nutritional values on the various hays and has come to this opinion because of the results.
As a quick background, the hay issue was brought up because my pig Kevy may be dealing with an allergy. I have a thread in the Medical section with the full details: https://www.guineapigcages.com/forum/medical-veterinary/81316-colds-vs-uris.html
Currently I am feeding Timothy and Orchard Grass hays. The vet said to feed only one of each for about 4 days to see if the nasal discharge goes away.
However, if it turns out that the Timothy hay is the allergen, my vet would prefer I do not only feed Orchard Grass because the Orchard Grass is similar to alfalfa and is higher in protein which can lead to obesity.
He said that if we find that Kevy is allergic to Timothy, he would prefer to see Kevy on Oat Hay. I searched found a previous thread on this forum where a moderator said that Oat Hay should only be given as a treat.
Just wondering if anyone had any thoughts on his comments and these hays?
The vet is a known exotics vet in my area and came highly recommended by @Paula. He seems pretty knowledgeable. He said that he has tested the nutritional values on the various hays and has come to this opinion because of the results.
As a quick background, the hay issue was brought up because my pig Kevy may be dealing with an allergy. I have a thread in the Medical section with the full details: https://www.guineapigcages.com/forum/medical-veterinary/81316-colds-vs-uris.html
Currently I am feeding Timothy and Orchard Grass hays. The vet said to feed only one of each for about 4 days to see if the nasal discharge goes away.
However, if it turns out that the Timothy hay is the allergen, my vet would prefer I do not only feed Orchard Grass because the Orchard Grass is similar to alfalfa and is higher in protein which can lead to obesity.
He said that if we find that Kevy is allergic to Timothy, he would prefer to see Kevy on Oat Hay. I searched found a previous thread on this forum where a moderator said that Oat Hay should only be given as a treat.
Just wondering if anyone had any thoughts on his comments and these hays?