With the return of our ever popular Cotswold Sweet arriving we thought it was a great time to re share this message.
When it comes to feeding hay-loving pets like rabbits, guinea pigs, and other small herbivores, consistency is key — but change is sometimes inevitable. Whether you're switching to a new hay variety or simply opening a new batch from this year’s harvest, it’s important to introduce it slowly and thoughtfully.
Even the Same Hay Can Vary
You might be surprised to learn that even if you’re buying the same variety of hay that there can still be differences from one harvest to the next. Factors such as weather, soil conditions, and the time of cut all influence the texture, colour, and taste of the hay.
That means even if you’re sticking with the same trusted supplier (like us!), your pets might notice subtle changes between last year's hay and this year's. Some animals are more sensitive to these changes than others, so it’s always best to be cautious.
Mix Old and New for a Smooth Transition
To help your pets adjust, we recommend mixing the new hay in with the old gradually over 7–10 days. Start with a small amount of new hay and increase the ratio a little each day.
Step-by-Step Hay Transition Plan
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Day 1–3: 75% old hay, 25% new hay
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Day 4–6: 50% old, 50% new
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Day 7–9: 25% old, 75% new
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Day 10: Fully switched to new hay
Watch your pet for normal eating habits and healthy droppings. If they go off their food or seem uncomfortable, slow the transition.
Signs of a Good Transition
As you mix in the new hay, keep an eye on your pet’s eating habits. If they’re munching happily and their droppings remain normal in shape and size, things are going well. If they suddenly eat less or show signs of discomfort, slow the transition down or chat to your vet.
Remember, seasonal change is natural. As long as your hay is fresh, dust-free, and stored correctly, a gradual introduction will keep your pet happy and healthy.
👉 Check out our latest harvest of high-quality, UK-grown hay - https://littlehayco.com/products/cotswold-sweet-hay-1
