Are you a Guinea Pig parent seeking alternatives to the typical hay on the market because you and your guinea baby seem to be allergic to them? If that is the case, you landed yourself the right spot!
Guinea Pigs and their owners may be allergic to some types of hay or hay dust, making it difficult to care for the little pig. But, do you want to abandon your Guinea just yet? The ideal solution here is to choose hypoallergenic hay so that you don’t have to worry about significant health issues or your baby’s runny nose. Once you replace the hay, you can cherish the life of parenting your piggie.
However, looking for the best hay for Guinea Pigs with allergies may not be as simple as it sounds. So, in this article we review the most suitable alternatives you can opt for, to make life easy for you and your furry pet.
How to Tackle Allergies resulting from Hay?
Hay allergies are completely normal and equally common (you aren’t alone in this!). Not only you but your little piggie may also suffer from allergies caused by their hay. Similarly, people can be seriously allergic to hay and hay dust, which may result in serious health problems for them in the long run.
So how do you know you are allergic? Symptoms like runny nose, sneezing, red and watery eyes, etc., are all signs that you are unable to handle the hay dust.
Does that mean you stop using hay? The answer is no. You may be allergic to Timothy hay but have high patience with other hays like Orchard Grass. Below, we have mentioned some Orchard grasses which will serve as the best alternatives to the conventional hays.
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Here Are Our 2022 Favorite & Top Picks Hay for Guinea Pig
5 Best Guinea Pig Hay Products For Allergies
1 - Small Pet Select Orchard Grass hay pet Foo
This hamster travel cage is an all in one solution for your journeys accompanied by your little one as it has everything your baby is going to need on the way. With an in-built water bottle, a plastic food dish, a running wheel, lots of ventilation, and see-through walls, this hamster transport unit is the ideal solution.
If your traveling accommodation allows more space, you can attach Kaytee habitats to this hamster travel carrier. The hamster carrier offers safe and secure traveling option and is super easy to carry around with its robust handles.
- A Vibrant green color
- Meadow-like fragrance
- Minimally handled
- Fresh
CONS
- A bit rough in textur
2 - Grandpa's Best Orchard Grass Bale
If your search is limited to having a hamster travel cage suitable for short journeys, then this Habitrail OVO is the ideal option for you. With an in-built sturdy handle, the unit is super easy to carry around. The compact design and lightweight unit makes for a comfortable short trip.
The top of this unit is not transparent, protecting your pet from sharp sunlight and making it even more convenient for napping. The only drawback is that it does not include a water bottle but the unit contains extra pathways that allow extensions to be added upon need.
- Provides dental care
- Additive and Preservative free
- High Nutritional Content
- Support Herbivore’s health
CONS
- Shorter strand hay
3 - Standlee Premium Western Forage Orchard Grass
For a compact, fold and go hamster carry bag option, this Ware Manufacturing Twist-N-Go is the best choice. With its scratch-proof screen it keeps your pet safe and secure inside and the compact design allows for cozy napping throughout the journey.
The material used is nylon canvas that does not wear or tear over time, with premium zippers keeping it locked in place. The best thing about this hamster carry bag is that it folds down flat for easy storage when not in use, not taking up space.
- Encourage more forage consumption
- Improves dental health
- Easy to handle packaging
- Improves gastrointestinal tract functioning.
CONS
- Maybe a bit dusty.
4 - Oxbow Animal Health Orchard Grass Hay
If you are in search of freshly harvested, expertly grown hay to suit the needs of your sensitive guinea, Oxbow Animal Health Orchard Grass Hay is for you. Packed with love and care from the manufacturers, the product delivers the utmost satisfaction to your pet with premium quality hay. Looking for 100% natural hay with no additives? This hay has got you covered!
Along with this, it’s manufactured to suit the nutritional requirements of your guinea pig. The high fiber content fosters their digestive and dental health. Similarly, the premium taste and texture are made exclusively for these picky creatures to enjoy. At Oxbow Animal Health, experts evaluate the needs and preferences of these little pets and create a product to add value to pet owners’ lives.
Further, this product is highly recommended by veterinarians from all parts of the world. With the sweet fragrance and no dust, you can stay with your pets for as long as you want without being allergic. The aroma will regulate your piggie’s appetite and compel them to consume more. Not to mention, this orchard grass hay is fit for guineas in all life stages.
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- Soft texture
- 100% Natural
- Recommended by top veterinarians globally
- High fiber composition
CONS
- Not enough for firm parts of your piggie's teeth.
5 - Hay Ultra-Premium, Hand Packed Soft Orchard Grass
In search of a fantastic quality Orchard Grass for your Guinea pig to get rid of the sensitivity towards their hay? Look no further than the hand-packed soft orchard grass by Rabbit Hole Hay. Standing out from other hypoallergenic hays, it features the Timothy hay flavor your guineas will love, without feeling allergic to it.
As research states, good hay is critical to your guinea pig’s health, this hand-packed soft hay will be an ideal choice. Featuring a strong fragrance, your pig will adore you for it since it is delightfully fresh and green. The soft texture it provides is to ensure your piggie’s dental health. Also, the nutrients I.e., low protein and high fiber ensure a healthy weight for your pet.
As essential as it is to your guinea pig, do you struggle to get them to eat hay? With this hand-packed Orchard grass, it won’t be an issue since they will gobble it right away. It is made up of no seeds and little stems so your pet can consume it easily. So, you no longer have to worry if they’re getting enough hay for their digestive tract’s health.
- No dust
- Hand-packed, fresh hay
- Fulfills all nutritional requirements
- Best for picky eaters
CONS
- A bit dry
Things to Consider when Buying Hay for Guinea Pig with Allergies
Besides wondering what is the best hay for Guinea pigs, there are certainly other factors that one needs to take into account. So here are a few things you must consider when looking for hay for your piggies:
Non-allergenic
The first thing to look for is whether the hay is non-allergenic since you need maximum interaction with your piggies. Make sure the hay is neither harmful for you nor them so you can be around them and they can live healthy lives.
Alternatives to Timothy Hay
Orchard Hay Grass is the most ideal alternative to Timothy hay. Since it’s hypoallergenic, it’s completely safe for your fur babies. However, you may look for other options like Meadow Hay, Alfalfa Hay, etc., depending on your preference.
Tips for Guinea Pig’s Care
- Avoid direct sunlight contact.
- Allow maximum ventilation into their space.
- Make sure to interact with them often since they are social animals.
Final Verdict
Being allergic to certain hays is not an issue when you have other options that do you and your pet equally good.
We hope we have answered all your queries and this article will help you pick the best hay for a guinea pig with allergies. Take pleasure in having the best time with your fur babies!
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