Hay for Gerbils, Hamsters and Mice

Everything You Need To Know About Hamster Hay

First things first: did you know that there’s actually no such thing as “hamster hay?” All of our high-quality small animal hay is perfect for everyone from hamsters to guinea pigs, bunnies to chinchillas. But you should know which hay your hamster loves. Pellets, fresh fruits, veggies, and hay make up the perfect tasty diet for your fuzzy.

Why Hamsters and Other Rodents Benefit From Hay

Although most hamsters and other rodents will eat pellets, hay is a good option, too, because it provides the fiber these little guys and gals need to stay healthy. In addition to providing necessary fiber, calcium, protein, and fat, fresh hay also encourages foraging and gives them some stimulation. In the wild, they are foraging animals who enjoy finding their own food. Hay gives pet hamsters, gerbils, and mice this experience, just like their wild relatives.

Not sure which  hay to get your hamster or other similar pet? Below are some of our favorite types of hay for your little one. (And all of their friends, of course.)

Timothy Hay

Timothy hay is the most common hay for your pet because it’s so delicious and perfectly balanced for their diet. There are three main cuttings of Timothy hay: 

• 1st cutting Timothy hay is a great choice for hefty hamsters because it’s low in protein and fat, but high in fiber. It will keep your ham’s digestive system moving like a breeze.
• 2nd cutting Timothy hay is the golden standard for hamsters because it has everything they need. The balance of fiber, protein, and fat make this a go-to everyday hay.
• 3rd cutting Timothy hay is a soft, sweet cut and can be used for hams that need to gain a little weight. Its higher levels of protein and fat keep your hamster healthy.

Orchard Hay

Orchard hay is soft and sweet (just like your  hamster). Hay should be both delicious and nutritious, and orchard is both of those and more. It can be used as a treat hay, a blending hay, or as an everyday hay for hams that have sensitivities to Timothy.

Alfalfa Hay

Alfalfa is high in protein, fiber, and fat and is a perfect choice for baby hamsters, pregnant hamsters, or hamsters that need to put on weight. This rich, dense, delicious hay is sure to be gobbled up in no time.

Oat Hay

Oat may differ in color (it’s a little more yellow) but it’s just as delicious. Its high protein, fiber, and fat levels make it a yummy choice. Oat is crunchy, more savory, and dense. Our oat hay even has some of the oat still attached, making it a great enrichment toy for your hamster, too.

If you’re still unsure of where to start, try our Hamster Starter Pack. It includes both hay and other essential hamster supplies to get you started on the right paw.