Why tree branches / gnawing sticks are good for your small animals 🌿🐰
5 min reading time
Did you know that twigs play an important role in your rabbit's or guinea pig's diet? Many pet owners initially think of hay, fresh food, and occasional dry food when it comes to feeding their pets. But also fresh branches from suitable trees and shrubs are an important part of species-appropriate nutrition and care.
1. Natural tooth wear 🦷
Rabbits and guinea pigs have Teeth that grow continuously throughout lifeTo prevent teeth from growing too long or crooked, intensive chewing is necessary. Twigs with bark offer just the right resistance for natural tooth abrasion – no vet visit required!
2. Occupation and variety 🐹
Branches encourage gnawing, nibbling, and playing. Especially in indoor housing, they provide... Occupation and mental stimulationThey prevent boredom and avoid behavioral problems.
3. Healthy nutrients 🌳
The bark, leaves, and even young buds contain important secondary plant compounds, vitamins and mineralsWhen given in small quantities, they are an ideal addition to your pets' diet.
4. Which branches are suitable? ✅
Not all types of wood are suitable for small animals. Here is a selection of harmless tree species:
-
apple tree
-
Birnbaum
-
hazelnut
-
pasture
-
Johannisbeerstrauch
-
birch
-
Linde
-
Raspberry bush
🚫 Stay away from: Cherry laurel, yew, thuja, elderberry, plum, peach and all coniferous trees (they contain toxic or irritating substances).
5. How to properly prepare branches 🧼
-
Collect twigs far away from roads or sprayed surfaces.
-
Wash them with warm water to remove dirt and pests.
-
Use them fresh or dried, but never moldy or rotten.
-
Offer them in different thicknesses and lengths so that your animals have variety.
Conclusion: Snacking fun with added value! 🐾
Branches are not only a natural teeth cleaner, but also a great source of enrichment and nutrients for your small pets. By carefully selecting and properly preparing suitable branches, you can offer your rabbits or guinea pigs a healthy and natural addition to their daily diet.
So: Get out into the garden and collect some branches! Your animals will love it. 🌿🐰🐹
📽️ Don't forget to watch our video! 👉
Tags
Blog posts
-
✂️ Scissors test: How do you cut a rodent carpet with hemp scissors?
-
🐰 Snack time: Which branches are especially tasty?
-
🐰 More than just CUTE!
