Thank you guys for all of the great feedback! I've answered some questions and comments below:
@PigPandemonium - I would really love to see that video! And yes, this is a 2nd cutting timothy hay that is slightly leafier than average 2nd cutting, but still has plenty of stem in there to provide good fiber which is important for an adult guinea pig. One issue I looked at is even though if you can find a really good quality 3rd cutting (which is pretty tough) it is very rich (much higher in protein and lower in fiber than a 2nd cutting). If you were to look at the analysis of a 1st cutting timothy, a 2nd cutting timothy, and a 3rd cutting timothy, here's what you would find:
1st cutting timothy: Highest fiber, lowest protein
2nd cutting timothy: medium fiber, medium protein
3rd cutting timothy: Lowest fiber, highest protein --> almost similar levels to alfalfa
One one end of the spectrum, first cutting timothy has the highest fiber. But many of us that have tried it know that piggies have a tough time with first cutting...it has bigger stalks and heads and a harder texture, although it is good for horses and dairy cattle it can be tough for our small animals to handle.
On the other end of the spectrum, third cutting is very very soft, almost like grass clippings. And if you can find a good quality 3rd your piggy will undoubtedly like it. However its just important to keep in mind the fiber level is lowest in 3rd cutting--and it is really a rich hay, almost like alfalfa.
So for now we've focused on finding the very best quality 2nd cutting, and we lean a little bit to the leafier side because we know thats what small animals enjoy eating. Keep in mind I'm not at all saying I think it is "wrong" for someone to feed a 1st cutting or a 3rd cutting, the most important part is to be feeding grass hay in the first place. And every pet is different and has their unique needs. However we chose to offer 2nd cutting because in my personal opinion it is the best overall mix of providing the high fiber they need while also being enjoyable to eat. And there is enough 2nd grown that we can go out and network with many growers from multiple states to find and "Select" (hence the name) only the very best stuff for small pets.
@NorthernLight - Thank you! Regarding the size, I would say it would be between a 22lb and a 50lb. On your first order maybe smart to go with the 22lb and try it out to see if that works well. And if you decide you'd like to order a little more in bulk then I'd move to the 50lb.
@pinky is right that if you store it properly the hay lasts awhile. The issue with the store bought hay is that it goes through such a long distribution chain that it can sometimes be 2 years or more by the time it gets purchased, and the fact it is in a plastic bag getting hit by light and handled roughly the whole way doesn't help.
I would say go for the 50lb but the only thing I worry about with the 50lb and it will last you a long time, but the thing about it is it comes in a very big box. Its worth it for some people but it can be a bit of a nuisance depending on your set up at home.
@pinky - Thank you! Regarding the coupon, we will be doing the promo for awhile, and we're also thinking to offer the free shipping for repeat buyers. However, if you'd like to make sure you have a coupon for your first order just send me an email at
[email protected] and I'll make a special coupon for you for your first order.
Thanks guys and let me know if you have any other questions!
Will upload it soon. They really enjoyed it, and at a few points you can see Ro Dah shoving her head into the pile to get more. xD She should totally be the mascot for Small Pet Select. I also thought some people might find it useful, since a lot of us buy KMS right now, I laid out a bundle of 3rd cut KMS next to a bundle of the sample hay in the video. Personally I can't see much of a difference, though I'm no hay expert.
