Care and feeding of rodents and rabbits

Care and feeding of rodents and rabbits

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What does a guinea pig need to stay healthy? How should a rabbit be cared for and fed properly? What kind of diet is suitable for a hamster?

Caring for rodents and rabbits involves many species-specific questions. FINNERO’s articles offer expert guidance on nutrition, care, living environment, and wellbeing for different small pets at various life stages.

Frequently Asked Questions – Care and Feeding of Rodents and Rabbits

What does a rabbit need to stay healthy?
Rabbits need plenty of space to move, species-appropriate enrichment, companionship and a suitable diet. Hay should form the foundation of a rabbit’s nutrition because it supports both digestion and natural tooth wear. Fresh water, a balanced complete feed and fresh vegetables should also be provided daily.
Why is hay important for rabbits and guinea pigs?
Hay is the most important part of the diet for both rabbits and guinea pigs. It provides fibre that supports healthy digestion while the constant chewing helps keep teeth naturally worn down. Insufficient hay consumption may increase the risk of digestive and dental problems.
Do guinea pigs need vitamin C?
Yes. Guinea pigs cannot produce vitamin C on their own and must receive it daily through their diet. A high-quality guinea pig feed together with vitamin C-rich vegetables helps ensure adequate intake. Long-term deficiency can lead to serious health problems.
What do hamsters eat?
A hamster’s diet typically includes a quality complete feed, seed mix and small amounts of fresh vegetables. Hamsters are omnivores, so their diet may also contain animal-based protein sources. A varied diet is beneficial, but new foods should always be introduced gradually.
How can I help prevent obesity in rabbits?
Maintaining a healthy weight requires regular exercise, a suitable diet and routine weight monitoring. Hay should make up the majority of the diet, while treats and high-calorie foods should only be offered in moderation. Obesity can increase the risk of several health problems in rabbits.
Why should rabbit teeth be monitored?
Rabbit teeth grow continuously throughout life. If they do not wear down naturally, they can become overgrown and cause pain, difficulty eating and serious health issues. Adequate hay consumption helps support natural tooth wear, but dental health should still be monitored regularly.
How large should a small pet enclosure be?
The appropriate size depends on the species, number of animals and their activity level. Small pets should have enough room to move, explore and express natural behaviours. An enclosure that is too small may negatively affect welfare and increase stress.

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