Learn How to Convert Your Small Animal to a Healthy Diet

Congratulations! You are taking the steps to ensure your small pet gets the quality nutrition he needs.  Small animals can be enjoyable additions to your home when they are healthy and happy. Whether you have a pet rabbit, guinea pig or chinchilla, you have an opportunity to learn what your pet needs for a healthy life.

Below we have provided vital information to help you understand your small pet's nutritional needs and the importance of feeding premium pellets and high-quality timothy hay.

Why Change Your Small Pet's Food?

Your small animal has a unique digestive system that requires a diet that is high in fiber. Rabbits, guinea pig and chinchillas are herbivores meaning they only eat plant materials. Their digestive systems are adjusted to consume plant-based foods, such as high-fiber hay, leafy greens, herbs, and pellets. Nutritionists and veterinarians recommend you feed a daily diet of long-stem hays and pellets for optimum nutrition and digestion. Download our Small Animal Feeding Brochure to learn more about your small pet's special nutrition needs.

Are you ready to convert your small animal to premium pellets and high-quality hay that is high in fiber and important for digestion? Below are a few tips to help you get started on the path to better nutrition and easy digestion for your pet.

Conversion Methods

• Over a 10-day period, gradually adjust the proportions of the old and new foods.

Day	Old Diet	New Diet	Day	Old Diet	New Diet
Day 1	90%	10%	Day 6	40%	60%
Day 2	80%	20%	Day 7	30%	70%
Day 3	70%	30%	Day 8	20%	80%
Day 4	60%	40%	Day 9	10%	90%
Day 5	50%	50%	Day 10	0%	100%

• Most pets convert easily, but if your pet stops eating, return to the previous food and wait a few days before repeating the conversion process again.
• Use fresh, Nature's Promise^TM Western Timothy Hay as bedding to entice your pet to eat.
• Use animal-safe toys or cardboard tubes to hide hay and pellets to encourage your pet to use his natural instincts to search for food.

For more tips like these, download our Small Animal Feeding Brochure.

Check Out Our Other Great Small Animal Resources

Nature's Promise^TM Premium Pellets and Western Timothy Hay
Complete diets with a fresh aroma and taste small pets love and all the nutrients they need.

The Importance of Fiber on Digestion
Read this article from an animal expert to find out why fiber is important in your small pet's diet.

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