What is the best diet for my small pet?

The ideal diet depends on the species, but all small pets require a balanced diet with species-specific nutrition. Rabbits & Guinea Pigs – A diet of approximately 80% hay, supplemented with high-quality grass-based pellets and fresh vegetables, particularly dark leafy greens. Guinea pigs also need fresh foods high in vitamin C as they cannot make this internally. Rats & Mice – High quality pellet diet, with plenty of fresh vegetables, smaller amounts of fruits, wholegrains and foods rich in omega 3 fatty acids including chia seeds, hemp seeds and small amounts of fatty fish. Ferrets – Require a high-protein, animal-based diet, as they are obligate carnivores. Options for ferrets include whole prey items, cooked, raw and freeze dried meat based diets and/or appropriately balanced kibble. Always choose a diet suited to your pet’s specific nutritional needs.

Why is hay so important for rabbits and guinea pigs?

Hay is an essential, and the most important part of a rabbit or guinea pig’s diet, making up 80% of their daily intake. It provides: - Indigestible fibre for proper digestion and gut health. - Dental benefits by naturally wearing down teeth, which grow continuously. - Mental enrichment, as foraging mimics natural behaviours.

Can small pets eat fresh fruits and vegetables?

Yes, most small pets benefit from fresh vegetables and occasional fruit treats. However, some foods can be harmful. Safe vegetables: Leafy greens are best for rabbits and guinea pigs. For guinea pigs add vegetables high in vitamin C like capsicum. Rats and mice benefit from a wide range of vegetables including carrot, broccoli, snow peas and many more. Safe fruits (in moderation): Eg Berries, apple (no seeds), banana. For rabbits and guinea pigs, fruits should not make up more than 5% of the diet and some individuals are particularly sensitive so these should only be offered sparingly. Avoid: Onion, garlic, avocado, chocolate, and high-sugar or processed foods. As ferrets are obligate carnivores they do not require fruits and vegetables in their diet Introduce new foods gradually to prevent digestive upset.

Can I feed my small pet a seed-based diet?

Seed-based diets should be given sparingly or as a treat, depending on the species. Seeds should never be fed to guinea pigs, rabbits or ferrets. Mice and rats can have small amounts as a treat. While some rodents naturally eat seeds, they lack essential nutrients and can lead to selective eating. Pellet-based diets ensure balanced nutrition and prevent deficiencies.

Shop Small Pet Food & Supplies | Australia's #1 Pet Store

Providing balanced small pet food ensures proper nutrition for rabbits, guinea pigs, rats, mice and other small animals. High-fibre hay, fortified pellets, and fresh vegetables support digestive health and dental care. Single-ingredient treats like dried fruits or hay-based chews provide a nutritious snack while keeping pets entertained, but should be used in moderation to ensure a balanced, healthy diet.

Small Pet Food

Filters

Type

Breed

Brand

Pet

Category

Lifestage

Price

Rating

Pet Size

Health Benefit

Active Ingredient

Special Offers

Protein Source

Timothy Hay

Timothy And Rye Hay

Origins Rabbit Food

Farms Mini Oaten Bale

Essentials Adult Rabbit Food With High Fibre Timothy Hay

Supreme Adult Rabbit Pellet Food

Rabbit Grower Breeder Pellet

Excel Mature Rabbit Nuggets Cranberry Ginseng

Western Timothy Premium Grass Hay For Rabbits And Guinea Pigs

Supreme 4 Plus Mature Rabbit Food

Rabbit And Guinea Pig Grower Breeder Pellet

Alfalfa King Timothy Grass Hay Double Compressed For Small Animals

Indoor Rabbit Nuggets with Dandelion & Nettle

Hay Blends Western Timothy And Orchard Grass For Small Animals

Rabbit And Guinea Pig Pellets

Lucerne Hay Mini Bale For Small Pets

Excel Natures Blend Rabbit Nuggets with Hedgerow Herbs

Orchard Premium Grass Hay For Rabbits And Guinea Pigs

Adult House Rabbit Pellet Food

Excel Rabbit Nuggets Mint

Essentials Young Rabbit Pellet Food With Alfalfa Hay

Nibble And Gnaw

Sustain Mint Small Pet Food

Origins Senior Rabbit Pellet Food

Oaten and Lucerne Small Animal Hay Cubes

Excel Junior And Dwarf Rabbits Nuggets With Mint

Essentials Senior Rabbit Pellet Food With Aging Digestion Support

Clover Pellets

Fibre Right

Dual Care Rabbits And Guinea Pigs Recovery Formula

Pellets Lucerne Flavour

Alfalfa King Alfalfa Hay Compressed Bale For Young Small Animals

Adult Rabbit Pellets Carrot And Mint

Pasture Hay Cubes

Junior Dwarf Rabbit Pellets

Vetafarm Origins Junior Rabbit Pellet Food

Excel Rabbit Nuggets Oregano

Botanicals Pellets Rabbit Food

Sustain Apple And Banana Small Pet Food

Garden Select Adult Rabbit Food With Timothy Orchard Hay

Harvest Stacks Western Timothy Grass Hay For Small Animals

High-Fibre Nutritional Supplement Pellets for Exotic Herbivores

Russel Rabbit Nuggets

Hand Selected Oat Hay For Rabbits And Guinea Pigs

Origins Mini Bale Lucerne Hay for Young Small Pets

Excel Light Nuggets For Overweight Rabbits

Origins Mini Bale Fescue Hay for Small Pets

Organic Bounty Adult Rabbit Food With Organic Grass Hay

Botanical Hay With Chamomile Lavender For Small Animals

Farms Mini Rye Grass Bale

Adult Rabbit Pellets Oregano And Dandelion

Farms Mini Lucerne Bale

Popular Small Pet Product Brands

Vet Articles

Small Pet Food: Complete Small Animal Nutrition

Popular Related Searches

Frequently Asked Questions about Food for Small Pets

What is the best diet for my small pet?

Why is hay so important for rabbits and guinea pigs?

Can small pets eat fresh fruits and vegetables?

Can I feed my small pet a seed-based diet?

Customer Care

About Pet Circle

Caring For Your Pet