A proper diet isn't just for dogs and cats. Pocket pets are heavily affected by poor quality, inappropriate diets that have been infiltrated with a heavy dose of GMO grains, chemical preservatives, artificial colors, etc. We need to get back to the roots with these little critters and provide them appropriate nutrition for overall health!
When it comes to diet, many products on the market are highly processed and overall, biologically inappropriate.
This is especially true when it comes to treats. Owners LOVE to treat their pet.
It's enjoyable, and rewarding.
But, it should also be nourishing.
Choosing a good treat doesn't have to be difficult.
Unfortunately, much of the advice given to pet owners is fairly biased or complete misinformation...
Either from the companies themselves, product labeling, or from the training that employees receive who are making the recommendations.
When I look at popular treats for small critters, I see many that are filled with cheap grains, nuts and seeds...
These are all things that rabbits, and guinea pigs really should not be eating.
Try to choose items that are least processed (no crunch stick, cereals or biscuits).
Avoid:
Artificial preservatives
Artificial Colors & Flavors
Added vitamins
Nuts, seeds & grains
Not only do these cause stress on their digestive system, they are a
choking hazard, and very high fat..
Guinea Pigs and Rabbits love to forage on things like:
Fresh grasses
Hay
Flowers
Berries
Plus fresh produce like romaine lettuce, broccoli, and carrots.
Look for dehydrated whole food items that you can visually recognize, such as:
Apple
Rose hips
Alfalfa hay
Calendula
Dandelion
Pine Cones
Health begins with what is eaten, and if fed appropriately, the body can THRIVE.
If you want to avoid store bought treats all together, go for fresh greens and produce!
Strawberry
Romaine lettuce
Dandelion greens
Celery leaves
Broccoli
Blueberries
And even some fresh grass or plantain leaves from the yard! Please be sure you know the plant, and don't pick anything that has been treated with lawn chemicals!
When you're making dinner, snacks or a lunch, through little critter some scraps! Strawberry and carrot tops that we usually cutt off and throw away are WONDERFUL treats for rabbits and guines pigs!!
Remember: Whole foods = Whole Body Health.
Want More Health & Wellness Tips?!
Be sure to Join as a Member for exclusive content & follow Happy Trails Pets on social media!
View all social links (including YouTube) & stay connected here!
