Managing Hay Fever When Owning a Small Pet

Hay fever, or allergic rhinitis, is often triggered by pollen from grasses, trees, and weeds rather than hay itself. However, if you're sensitive to hay, certain types may cause fewer symptoms.

If you suffer from hay fever but have a small pet whose diet mainly consists of hay it can be a tricky situation to balance, here are some ways to help reduce your symptoms while keeping your pet happy and healthy:

Choose the Right Hay

• Low-dust hay – Opt for a second cut if your pet prefers it. As this is the regrowth after the first cut, it contains fewer seed heads and therefore less pollen. We currently offer Silky Soft and Cotswold Soft Cut as second cut options.
• Dust-extracted hay – Our 2kg and 4kg bales are dust-extracted, making them the least dusty option for those with sensitivities.
• Hay alternatives:
  • Oat hay – As this is not a grass hay, it doesn’t contain the same pollens that trigger hay fever.
  • Alfalfa hay – Being a legume rather than a grass, it may cause fewer pollen-related issues. However, it is only suitable for pets up to six months old.

Manage Hay Storage & Handling

• Store hay in a sealed container – Keeping it in a box with a lid helps prevent dust from spreading.
• Designate a feeding area – Keep hay in a specific space, ideally in a well-ventilated area.
• Use a hay feeder – This minimises loose hay on the floor and reduces airborne dust.

Minimise Direct Contact with Allergens

• Wash hands and change clothes – Doing this after handling hay prevents allergens from spreading to other areas.
• Limit pet access – Keep pets out of bedrooms and soft-furnished spaces where allergens can accumulate.

Improve Indoor Air Quality

• Use an air purifier – A HEPA-filter air purifier can trap allergens and improve air quality.
• Vacuum regularly – A vacuum with a HEPA filter helps clear hay dust and pet fur.
• Keep windows open – Where possible, ventilate your home to prevent allergens from building up.

Manage Your Hay Fever Symptoms

• Take antihistamines – Over-the-counter or prescription antihistamines can help manage symptoms. Always consult your doctor before long-term use.
• Use nasal sprays & eye drops – These can help reduce congestion and irritation.
• Shower before bed – Washing off allergens at the end of the day can help prevent nighttime symptoms.

How Does Little Hay Co Help?

Thanks to our innovative drying process, our hay contains less dust than traditionally produced hay—benefitting both pets and owners with allergies. For those particularly sensitive to dust, we also offer a dust-extracted option in our 2kg and 4kg compressed bales.