My Guinea pig isn’t eating her hay

[HumanWithFurryPotats]

I got a New Guinea pig from the shelter yesterday, and she isn’t eating hay like my old one does. She eats everything else but not hay. What should I do?

 

[Bill & Ted]

I’d keep encouraging her to eat it, maybe try a different brand or type? You could ring the shelter and ask if she was eating hay there and what type. A bit of fresh grass is good to keep her teeth ground down as it contains silica too. Have you tried readigrass? This a commercial grass that has been dried, that might encourage her to start eating rougher foods like hay x

 

[Wiebke]

I got a New Guinea pig from the shelter yesterday, and she isn’t eating hay like my old one does. She eats everything else but not hay. What should I do?

Hi!

Please give her time to settle in. Is she an only piggy or does she have your old piggy as a companion and guide?

Never underestimate the companionship aspect of a group species like guinea pigs. They have evolved to forage in larger groups at dawn and dusk; the 'I want what you have' reflex is very strong! Young guinea pigs learn what is safe to eat from their elders; if your piggy hasn't had that and doesn't have a companion to show her, then you are facing an uphill battle.

 

[Merab]

Welcome to the forum
I can’t add to what has been said already.
Please can we see pictures of her

 

[HumanWithFurryPotats]

Hi guys! Thanks for the help, she is better now and is eating her hay. She was just scared in the room we put her in.