Timothy Hay Analysis
The best way to understand why timothy hay is so good for your pet is to study the breakdown of the hay itself. Below you’ll find answers to some common questions concerning the nutritional benefits of timothy hay.
What is the 1st cutting timothy hay analysis?
Timothy hay that has been harvested during the first cut tends to be coarser and hardier hay. It is higher in fiber and lower in protein than subsequent cuttings. The cattail seed heads are bigger than those harvested during the second cutting. While horses enjoy the first cutting of timothy hay, it is can be difficult for small pets to handle as it takes harder to chew and digest.
What is the 2nd cutting timothy hay analysis?
In the second cutting timothy hay, there are generally fewer stems (and the stems are generally thinner and softer) than first cutting. This is a more leafy and soft hay than 1st cutting. This means a second cutting timothy hay analysis will be slightly lower in fiber and higher in protein than first cutting. Most small pets prefer a second cutting timothy hay over first cutting as the delicate stems provide the perfect amount of roughage for small pets and the second cutting is packed with the good nutrition that your small pet needs to thrive.
How much protein does timothy hay have?
On average, timothy hay yields a 10% protein content depending on when it is harvested (of course this ranges depending on cutting and field conditions as well as a number of other factors). This is a perfect low amount for small pets that should not receive a high amount of protein in their diets.
Does timothy hay have vitamin C?
Many guinea pig and other small pet owners are concerned that their pets are getting enough vitamin C. While timothy hay provides many necessary vitamins and nutrients for your pet, it does not contain vitamin C. Because timothy hay does not have vitamin C, it is essential that your guinea pig is eating plenty of fruits and vegetables or consuming vitamin C tablets on a daily basis.
What is the timothy hay analysis compared to alfalfa hay analysis?
Too many times pet owners are incorrectly advised to feed their small pets alfalfa instead of buying timothy hay, which can be a little more expensive. There are a couple of reasons why alfalfa is not the ideal choice for your small pet. It is higher in protein and calories, both of which are not advisable to feed a small pet. It is also higher in calcium which can cause problems for small pets when fed in excess. More than protein, small pets need plenty of fiber to keep their digestive tracts going strong. Providing your pet with plenty of timothy hay will guarantee that it is receiving a perfectly balanced diet. Unless your pet is pregnant or nursing, timothy hay or another grass hay is much preferred over the rich alfalfa hay.
If you are interested in purchasing a high quality timothy hay for your small pet, click here to go to our hay page.
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