Mij Pukhnastyk select alfalfa hay, 450 g is a legume hay from the Ukrainian brand Mij Pukhnastyk for rabbits and other herbivorous rodents. The manufacturer says the alfalfa is hand-harvested at peak maturity and carefully selected. It's a fragrant hay, rich in fibre and calcium, that aids digestion and the natural wearing-down of constantly growing teeth.
How alfalfa differs from regular hay
Alfalfa is a legume, not a grass like meadow hay or timothy. So it contains more protein and especially more calcium, and most small animals find it tastier and more aromatic. The manufacturer stresses its high calcium content, needed for strong bones and teeth. That makes alfalfa an excellent food for animals that are "building" their bodies: young growing rabbits and pregnant or nursing does. An adult rabbit or guinea pig with normal activity doesn't need that much calcium — the excess is excreted in the urine, and feeding alfalfa alone long-term raises the risk of bladder sludge.
Key specs
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Type | select alfalfa hay |
| Features | high in fibre and calcium, aromatic |
| For | rabbits and herbivorous rodents |
| Weight | 450 g |
| Brand | Mij Pukhnastyk, Ukraine |
Pros
- Lots of fibre. Keeps the gut moving and helps prevent blockages.
- A source of calcium. Good for growing rabbits and does during pregnancy and lactation.
- Wears down teeth. Chewing hay naturally wears down ever-growing teeth.
- Fragrant and tasty. Great for picky eaters and for getting animals used to hay.
- Select raw material. According to the manufacturer, it's hand-harvested at peak maturity.
- Affordable. A convenient 450 g pack.
Cons
- Moderation for adults. Because of the calcium, alfalfa shouldn't be the only hay for adult rabbits and guinea pigs.
- Richer than grass hay. Give only a little to pets prone to weight gain.
- A small pack. As a main hay, 450 g runs out fast.
- No analysis on the product page. Protein and calcium levels aren't given in figures.
How to feed it
Young rabbits up to six months and pregnant or nursing does can have alfalfa freely — it supports growth and recovery. For adult rabbits, guinea pigs and chinchillas, the base of the diet should be grass hay — meadow hay or timothy — with alfalfa added in small amounts as a treat or for variety, such as a handful a day. As with any new food, introduce a new hay gradually. Store hay in a dry, ventilated place, not in a sealed bag, so it doesn't get damp or mouldy. Never feed hay that smells damp or mouldy.
Hay is the foundation of the diet
Rabbits and guinea pigs should always have hay in their enclosure: it makes up most of their diet and is essential for gut function and tooth wear. Pellets, vegetables and treats are only additions. How to choose hay and how much is needed is covered in hay for rabbits and guinea pigs. For care and feeding, see pet rabbits: care and feeding and keeping and feeding a guinea pig.
Who it suits
Young growing rabbits and pregnant or nursing does — as a main hay; adult rabbits, guinea pigs and chinchillas — as a tasty addition to grass hay. More foods and hay are in the food for ferrets and rodents section.
Verdict
Mij Pukhnastyk alfalfa hay is a fragrant, select hay with fibre and calcium, especially good for growing rabbits and does with young. For adult pets it's best as an addition to meadow hay or timothy: the animal gets the pleasure and benefits without excess calcium.
FAQ
Can an adult rabbit be fed alfalfa only?
Better not: an adult rabbit's diet should be based on grass hay, with alfalfa as an addition.
Who benefits most from alfalfa?
Young growing rabbits and pregnant or nursing does.
Is alfalfa suitable for guinea pigs?
Yes, but adult guinea pigs should have only a little, alongside grass hay.
Why is alfalfa given in moderation?
It's high in calcium; a constant excess raises the risk of bladder sludge.
Does hay help wear down teeth?
Yes, chewing hay naturally wears down constantly growing teeth.
How should hay be stored?
In a dry, ventilated place; damp or mouldy hay must not be fed.
How is alfalfa different from timothy?
Alfalfa is a legume hay rich in protein and calcium, while timothy is a grass hay that adult animals can have without limits.
How much does the pack weigh?
450 g.
