FAQ: Food for small pets

Yucca extract is added to reduce the smell of droppings and urine. It is a common, harmless additive, but a clean cage still matters most.

A healthy animal eating the right food and plenty of hay usually does not need probiotics. A vet may advise them after illness or treatment.

Seeds and nuts are fatty, so they only suit hamsters, rats and mice in small amounts. For herbivores such as rabbits, guinea pigs and degus, such food is unsuitable.

These animals absorb a lot of calcium, and the excess is passed in the urine, where it can form sludge or stones. Limit alfalfa hay and calcium-rich greens for adults.

Yes, an animal eating mainly dry food and hay drinks more, because it does not get moisture from fresh vegetables. Clean water must always be within reach.

No, even with plenty of juicy vegetables, a small pet must have fresh water around the clock. Vegetables provide only part of the moisture it needs.

A balanced food made for small pets already contains the minerals and salt they need, so licks are usually unnecessary. An excess can do harm; if in doubt, ask a vet.

A rabbit eating hay, greens and good-quality pellets usually needs no extra vitamins. Only give supplements when a vet prescribes them.

Usually not – there is enough in their food, and an excess encourages urinary stones in rabbits and guinea pigs. Only a vet should advise extra calcium for pregnant females or youngsters.

Some pellets already contain flaxseed, and a healthy animal needs no extra oil. If the coat is poor, consult a vet, as the cause may not be diet alone.

Unlimited hay, fresh leafy greens and enough water support digestion best. Sugar, starch and sudden food changes upset it.

Bloating can be caused by a sudden food change, large amounts of cabbage or legumes, and fermenting grass clippings. If the belly is bloated and the animal is not eating, see a vet urgently.

Yes, diarrhoea is often caused by a sudden food change, too much fruit or vegetables, or spoiled food. Diarrhoea lasting longer is dangerous, especially in youngsters, so see a vet.

Long chewing of hay wears down the back teeth, whereas pellets and mixes are chewed quickly and do not wear the teeth as much. With too little hay, the teeth overgrow and can injure the mouth.

True food allergy is rare in small pets; skin problems are more often caused by parasites or unsuitable bedding. If you suspect a reaction to food, consult a vet.

No, dry food or hay that has got damp quickly goes mouldy, and mould is harmful to small pets. Throw such food away and find a drier storage place.

A good hamster mix is varied: millet, oats, wheat, flaxseed, a few sunflower and pumpkin seeds, and sometimes dried vegetables or protein pieces. The more varied the mix, the less risk of the animal picking only the fattiest seeds.

Oats are high in starch, so they suit rabbits only occasionally and in very small amounts, not as everyday food. Hay is the best source of fibre.

Sugar is highly concentrated in dried fruit, so rabbits, guinea pigs and rats can have only a tiny piece now and then. Degus and chinchillas must not have dried fruit.

Hay and water must be available all the time, and fresh greens and pellets are best split into two portions – morning and evening. These animals eat often and a little at a time, so there should be no long gaps without food.