Burgess Herbage etc - suitable for every day?

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missy

missy

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Hi all,

I know there are quite a few products around which are around 95% hay with a small amount of herbs/flowers etc added. I really like Burgess Excel Herbage (timothy hay with dandelions & marigolds)....and more importantly, so does my guinea pig! ;)

Just wondering if this type of hay is suitable for everyday use? Or should it be only plain hay which is given in unlimited amounts? Even if some of the added extras are rich in calcium, would the quantities be enough to cause a problem?

I know that dandelions are a diuretic, but is that necessarily a bad thing? (Especially for a pig who doesn't drink much and has had cystitis like symptoms)

Many thanks,
Missy x
 
I do not believe that feeding Burgess Excel Herbage daily will cause any health issues. However, I would be inclined to feed an unlimited amount of Burgess Excel Fresh Forage (or alternative hay) and to offer a handful of Burgess Excel Herbage daily. Feeding a large amount of foodstuffs that have a diuretic action will not benefit a cavy.

However, to prevent cystitis I would recommend offering plain, natural and unsweetened cranberry juice diluted in a syringe, or by placing the juice in your cavies’ water bottle. Naturally, the bottle will have to be changed daily.
 
Thanks GPGaga.

I like the fact that Excel Herbage contains timothy hay, is better quality than the other manky hays available in my local stores and is relatively widely stocked. I know there are loads of good online retailers but sometimes I just need the speed and convenience of popping out and visting a real life shop!

I've used Excel Forage before but was advised that a longer strand hay was probably better than that short strand grass (for teeth grinding) and also that grass might be too rich for daily use.

Guess I just need to experiment more online, trying more retailers, brands & varieties!
 
I have also considered placing regular orders online, due to not wanting to support a certain company. However, like yourself, find it more convenient to purchase what I need, and when I need it. Although, I have ordered several products online from several suppliers, and have been pleased with the service and goods I have received. Although, I have not been so pleased with the post and packaging costs.
 
jojowelsh said:
I use timothy hay for everyday use is that not good?
Click to expand...

I think it's the fact that the Herbage timothy hay comes with dandelions and marigolds mixed in that causes the issue. As far as I know, timothy hay on its own is fine.....I'm sure someone will correct me if this is wrong though!
 
Timothy hay on its own is fine!

There is also the issue that dried herbs contain a lot more calcium than fresh food and should be given only in moderation, as too much can help the build up of bladder stones in piggies with that inclination (guinea pig urine is by nature very alcaline). I would use Ecxel herbage as an occasional special treat.
 
These posts on food stuffs are so interesting and informative. It's like a minefield out there! 2 of my piggies really love this hay, but 2 others are really picky and I hadn't made the connection until now concerning the little 'extras' that come in the hay. I will most certainly just try them on Timothy Hay to see if that makes any difference. :)
 
since i got my pigs 4 weeks ago all i have fed them is the herbage with dandelion and marigolds.

i will look at changing this tomorrow, iv got some timothy hay from pets at home, ill try them on that.

I'm glad of this topic
 
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