Rodent Food: the right feed for every single rodent species

Rodent Food: rich in fibre and matched to the species

Every rodent species has its own needs. Guinea pigs and chinchillas need plenty of crude fibre and hay at all times, while for hamsters, mice and rats a grain mix comes first. In this section you will find muesli and pellets, meadow hay and organic hay, seeds such as chicory seed and buckwheat, snacks and supplementary feed, so that the daily ration adds up.

Hay, crude fibre and teeth

Your animals' teeth keep growing throughout life and only wear down while chewing fibrous food. That is why hay is the staple food for guinea pigs and chinchillas and should be available around the clock. Pellets and muesli round the ration off but never replace the hay. Guinea pigs cannot produce vitamin C themselves and take it in through their food. Chinchillas and degus do not tolerate sugar, so their feed is deliberately low in it.

Changing over, amounts and storage

Introduce a new food gradually over several days and mix it in with the familiar one at first. That gives the digestion enough time to settle in. Match the amount to age, activity and weight, and weigh your animal once a week if you are unsure. Store food dry, cool and dark in a closed container, then the aroma and structure stay intact. Check the hay for moisture and for a fresh, herby smell before you feed it, and put anything damp aside. Seeds such as chicory seed and hulled buckwheat work well if you want to put a mix together to your own taste and adjust it over time.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use one food for all rodents?
Better not. Guinea pigs need vitamin C, chinchillas and degus low sugar food, and hamsters and rats mainly grains.

How much hay does a guinea pig need?
Hay should be available at all times. Top up smaller portions more often, then it stays fresh and is taken well.

How do I change the food over?
Step by step over several days, mixing more of the new food into the old one while you watch how your animals take it.