Rabbit and Guinea Pig Dental Care: How to Keep Their Teeth Healthy
Did you know that rabbits and guinea pigs have teeth that never stop growing? That’s right. Their front teeth can grow several millimetres every week, so keeping them worn down is an important part of staying healthy.
In the wild, these little herbivores spend hours every day munching on grasses, twigs and other fibrous plants, which naturally wear down their teeth. Our pets need a helping hand to do the same.
Hay is the hero
The number one way to keep your furry friend’s teeth in great shape is by providing plenty of fresh hay every day. Chewing through all those tough fibres helps wear their teeth naturally while also keeping their digestive system happy.
Chew toys make life more fun
Chew toys aren’t just there to stop boredom. They also encourage your rabbit or guinea pig to gnaw, helping keep those constantly growing teeth at a healthy length.
Look for safe options such as:
- Untreated wooden chew toys
- Natural willow sticks and balls
- Seagrass mats
- Cardboard tunnels and hideaways
- Safe hanging chew toys
Changing their toys now and then keeps things interesting and encourages more chewing.
Tasty treats that do more
Many small animal chew treats are specially designed to support dental health while giving your pet something delicious to nibble on. Fibre-rich treats and natural chew sticks can be a great addition to their daily routine. Just remember that treats should be exactly that, a treat, and not replace a healthy diet full of hay.
Keep an eye on their smile
Even with the best care, dental problems can still happen. If your rabbit or guinea pig starts dropping food, eating less, dribbling, losing weight or develops watery eyes, it’s time for a visit to your vet. Dental issues are much easier to treat when they’re caught early.
Pop in and see us
Not sure which chew toys or treats are best for your little mate? Visit your local Better Pets and Gardens store. Our friendly team can help you choose safe, enriching products that will keep your rabbit or guinea pig busy, happy and smiling from ear to ear.
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