My guinea pig's poop changed color with new hay. What's wrong?

Question

I bought new hay the other day, a different brand and a different type of hay. (I normally get oxbow orchard grass hay) the next day I noticed that their poop is a dry caramel color. Today I'm noticing a lot more darker with caramel color. Could it be that they don't like the brand? Also I notice them only picking out the grassy parts of the hay and the fuzzy tops. Them not eating enough of this hay is that the reason for their change in poop color? I plan to switch back in a few days. Pet's info: Small Animal | Guinea Pig | Male | unneutered | 1 year and 1 month old

Linda G, MS, DVM · Accepted Answer

Hello. Any change in formulation of feed can change the color & consistency of the feces, especially in hindgut fermenters like guinea pigs. It does take time for the bacteria to adapt. But if your pigs are only picking out the good parts, then it makes sense to change back to their regular hay. This should not be too upsetting to their GI tract since you are doing a relatively fast switch back. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

My guinea pig's poop changed color with new hay. What's wrong?

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