As the days grow longer and the first daffodil shoots appear, there's an undeniable buzz of anticipation in the air. Spring is a wonderful time for us, and it offers fantastic opportunities to refresh the world of our cherished small pets. For hamsters, guinea pigs, rabbits, and gerbils, the shift from winter's chill to spring's gentle warmth means changes to their routine, environment, and even their diet. At Extra Select, we’re here to help you navigate this seasonal transition, ensuring your little companions are happy, healthy, and ready to embrace all that spring has to offer.

A Breath of Fresh Air: Outdoor Adventures

For many small pets, particularly rabbits and guinea pigs, spring means the exciting prospect of outdoor time. After being cooped up during the colder months, a securely fenced run on fresh, pesticide-free grass can provide vital exercise and mental stimulation.

However, a gradual approach is key:

Introduce Slowly: Don't move them straight from a warm indoor spot to a cold outdoor hutch overnight. Introduce short periods of supervised outdoor play, increasing the time as the weather consistently warms up.

Shelter is Essential: Spring weather in the UK can be unpredictable. Always provide ample shelter in their outdoor run – a solid hidey-house or tunnel – to protect them from sudden rain showers, strong winds, or even unexpected cold snaps. Shady spots are also vital to prevent overheating on sunny days.

Predator Proofing: Ensure their outdoor enclosure is completely secure from predators, both from above and below. Strong wire mesh, a solid roof, and digging prevention measures are crucial.

Spring Cleaning Their Sanctuary

Spring often inspires a deep clean, and your small pet's habitat should be no exception. A thorough clean-out helps maintain a hygienic environment, crucial for preventing health issues.

• Deep Clean: Empty the entire enclosure. Use a pet-safe disinfectant to clean all surfaces, toys, and accessories. Rinse everything thoroughly and allow it to dry completely before returning your pet.
• Bedding Refresh: While you might have provided extra thick bedding for winter warmth, spring means you can adjust quantities. Ensure a good, absorbent layer is always present, but perhaps reduce the insulation once temperatures stabilise. Extra Select’s soft, dust-extracted bedding provides comfort and cleanliness.
• Check for Wear and Tear: Inspect cages, hutches, and runs for any damage that might have occurred over winter. Repair any broken wire, gnawed wood, or loose latches to ensure continued safety.

Dietary Delights: Fresh Greens and Foraging

As fresh produce becomes more available, spring offers a chance to introduce new flavours and nutrients to your small pet's diet.

• Introduce Gradually: Fresh greens, like dandelion leaves (ensure they are from an unsprayed area), parsley, or safe leafy vegetables, should be introduced slowly and in small quantities to avoid digestive upset.
• Never Feed Grass Cuttings: While fresh grass is great for grazing animals, mown grass ferments quickly and can cause serious digestive problems. If you're allowing them to graze, let them do their own "mowing" in a safe area.
• Extra Select's Balanced Diet: Continue to provide a high-quality, species-specific pellet food as the foundation of their diet. Our range ensures your small pets get all the essential vitamins and minerals they need for vibrant health.

Parasite Prevention: A Spring Essential

With warmer weather comes an increased risk of external parasites like fleas, ticks, and mites. These tiny invaders can cause discomfort and even serious health issues for your small pet.

• Regular Checks: Routinely check your pet’s fur and skin for any signs of parasites, especially after outdoor excursions. Pay close attention to ears, armpits, and groin areas.
• Environmental Control: Keeping their habitat clean is your first line of defence.
• Vet Consultation: Speak to your vet about appropriate parasite prevention for your specific pet. They can advise on safe treatments and how often they should be administered.

Enrichment and Well-being

Spring is a time of renewed energy, and stimulating your pet's mind is just as important as keeping their body healthy.

• New Toys: Introduce new chew toys, tunnels, or puzzle feeders to keep them entertained. Extra Select offers a variety of engaging accessories to enrich their environment.
• Foraging Opportunities: Scatter some of their daily food or small, safe treats around their enclosure or run. This encourages natural foraging behaviours and provides mental stimulation.
• Interaction: Spend more quality time with your small pet. Gentle handling, quiet observation, or supervised play sessions strengthen your bond and allow you to spot any subtle changes in their behaviour.

By taking these steps to prepare your small pets for spring, you're not just ensuring their physical well-being; you're also enhancing their overall happiness. Enjoy the blooming season with your cherished companions, knowing they're well-cared for with a little help from Extra Select.