There are several main varieties of grass hay, each offering unique nutritional profiles and characteristics for various animal needs. Timothy hay is one of the most popular and widely available grass hays, known for its sweet aroma and high-fiber content, making it an excellent choice for adult rabbits, guinea pigs, and chinchillas. Orchard grass hay is another common variety, slightly sweeter than Timothy hay and suitable for a wider range of small herbivores, including rabbits, guinea pigs, and degus.
Meadow hay is a mix of different grasses found in natural meadows, providing a diverse blend of nutrients and textures, suitable for many small herbivores and larger animals like horses. Bermuda grass hay is a warm-season grass hay that offers good protein content and is often fed to horses, as well as other grazing animals. Lastly, Bluegrass hay is palatable and nutritious, preferred by many horses due to its soft texture and delicious taste.
The choice of grass hay depends on the specific dietary needs and preferences of the animals being fed, making it crucial to select the appropriate variety to ensure their optimal health and well-being. Most feed stores in the Northern California areas of Redding, Anderson, Cottownwood, and Palo Cedro offer a variety of grass hay.