Hay is the cornerstone of a chinchilla’s diet. It provides essential fibre for healthy digestion and helps wear down their ever-growing teeth. Without daily hay, chinchillas can develop dental problems and gut issues.

Most chinchillas thrive on Timothy hay as a staple. You can also offer Meadow hay or Orchard grass for variety. Avoid high-calcium hays like alfalfa for adult chinchillas as they can cause urinary problems if fed long term.

Timothy hay can be the main source of fibre for chinchillas. However, mixing in other grass hays like Meadow hay can keep them interested and encourage healthy foraging.

Chinchillas should have unlimited access to fresh hay. A healthy chinchilla will usually eat a pile roughly the size of its body every day.

Yes. Meadow hay is a great way to add variety and texture to their diet. Just make sure it is clean, dust-free and free from harmful plants.

Hay cubes can be given as an occasional treat or boredom buster, but they should not replace loose hay. Loose hay encourages natural grazing and better dental wear.

Choose hay that is green, fresh smelling and free from mould or dust. Stale, brown or musty smelling hay should be avoided.

It is not recommended as outdoor hay may contain pesticides, pollutants or toxic plants. Always buy hay specifically prepared for small animals.

It could be due to dental pain, boredom with the same hay type or the hay being stale. Try offering a fresher or different variety, and have a vet check their teeth if it continues.

Mix different hay types, hide hay in enrichment toys or place small piles around their enclosure to promote natural foraging behaviour.

Yes. Chinchillas’ teeth grow continuously, and chewing fibrous hay helps keep them at a healthy length.

Store in a cool, dry place in a breathable container like a hay bag or cardboard box. Avoid plastic bags as they trap moisture and cause mould.

Yes. Exposure to damp, sunlight or stale air can make hay lose its freshness and nutrients. Use it within a few months of purchase.

Yes. Offering a blend of hays encourages better hay consumption and keeps chinchillas mentally stimulated.

Yes. Pellets alone do not provide enough fibre or chewing action. Hay should always be the majority of their diet.

First cut hay is coarser with more stems and fibre, which is great for dental wear. Second cut hay is softer and leafier, and often more appealing for picky chinchillas.

We provide fresh, dust-extracted hay that’s hand-packed for safety and quality, making it ideal for chinchillas to nest, dig and chew.

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