Oxbow Animal Health

August 05, 2020

Pellet-Free Diets for Small Herbivores: Good, Bad, or Unknown?

There has been an ongoing debate over the years regarding pellet-free diets for small exotic mammals. Those endorsing pellet-free diets have had different claims to support their opinion, including the argument...... Read More

July 30, 2020

DIY Snack Wreath

Are you looking for a fun and delicious DIY project you can create for your guinea pig or other small pet? With some Oxbow hay, natural string, and the yummy greens of your choice, you can create this fun and enriching Hay Snack Wreath!... Read More

July 14, 2020

The Scoop on Small Pet Poop: Normal, Abnormal, and Everything in Between

Let’s face the facts, we all poop…every animal does. Some species, like rabbits and guinea pigs, just do it a lot more! While far from a glamorous topic, your pet’s poops can tell you an awful lot about their overall wellbeing and what’s going on inside their body. ... Read More

July 13, 2020

Final Fosters: Tips for a Successful Experience

Fostering is a family endeavor. All members of the family need to be ready for the responsibility of taking care of the pets and placing them with new adoptive families. This can be an emotional time for family members (especially children), so spend time talking with them and helping them understand how they are making an impact in this pet’s life. ... Read More

July 01, 2020

Curbside Veterinary Care for Small Mammals

Like it or not, COVID-19 has altered the way most of us conduct our day-to-day lives. As a devoted pet parent, one of the unexpected changes you may encounter is the necessity for curbside veterinary care. ... Read More

June 08, 2020

Toxic Plants and Small Mammals

In a safe environment, small mammals are naturally quite inquisitive. Pair that instinctual curiosity with a set of continuously growing teeth and it’s a recipe for chewing on everything they can reach. Whether indoors or out, any environment you introduce your pet to should first be thoroughly inspected and free from any items you don’t want them getting into, especially things that could cause harm like toxic plants. ... Read More

June 01, 2020

Antioxidants and Their Role in Pet Health

Antioxidants have been a buzzword in the human health world for quite some time now. For years, human doctors and nutritionists have been touting the antioxidative benefits of a diet rich in leafy greens and veggies; More recently, antioxidants have gained popularity in the pet food aisle as well. But, what exactly are antioxidants and how are they beneficial to our pets (and us)? ... Read More

June 01, 2020

Wellness Exam Checklist

With everything going on in the world, many pet parents have been spending considerably more time at home over the past few months. While humans are rather divided on the topic, most of our furry ... Read More

May 19, 2020

Pet of the Month May 2020

Congratulations to our Pet of the Month, Garou! This sweet little chinchilla is a year old and loves Oxbow hay and chinchilla food. Thanks for being a fan, Garou!... Read More

May 18, 2020

Creating Foraging Opportunities for Your Small Pet

Foraging is one of many instinctual behaviors commonly exhibited by small companion mammals. Pet parents should do their due diligence in providing fun, nutritionally-appropriate foraging opportunities for their small pet! Here are some of our suggestions.... Read More

May 05, 2020

COVID-19 and Pets: Updated Information and Recommendations

As our understanding of COVID-19 continues to evolve daily, we would like to take the opportunity to share some additional information with the small pet community regarding this disease and the potential impacts to our domestic pet species. Additionally, the CDC has come out with some new guidelines and recommendations around taking measure to prevent the potential of pet parents and their animals from being exposed. ... Read More

April 28, 2020

Spending Time Outdoors with Your Small Mammal

As the days grow longer and warmer, who can resist going outside to fill their lungs with fresh, lilac-scented air and soak up some much-needed Vitamin D? As humans emerge from... Read More

April 24, 2020

Oxbow Launches “Full Bowls, Full Hearts” Campaign to Support Pets and Pet Parents Impacted by COVID

With the COVID-19 pandemic continuing to affect pets and pet parents worldwide, Oxbow Animal Health has announced its “Full Bowls, Full Hearts” campaign to provide direct support in the form of essential nutrition and supplies. Part of Oxbow’s KINDSWELL initiative, the “Full Bowls, Full Hearts” campaign will supply 100 Pet Care Packs consisting of pellets, hay, treats, and enrichment items to pets and pet parents in need. ... Read More

April 17, 2020

Foster 101: How to Help Your Fosters Find the Perfect Forever Home

Foster parents play a vital role in helping place the foster pets in their care in the perfect forever home. Many humane societies will provide a listing of key information to make note of as you interact with your foster pet. Listed below are several key bits of information that a foster parent should note about the animals in their care. ... Read More

April 10, 2020

Caring for Multiple Hamsters

Happy World Hamster Day! It’s only fitting these delightful, curious companions get a day of world recognition. Not only are hamsters undeniably adorable, they each have unique personalities that far outweigh their diminutive stature. ... Read More

April 01, 2020

It All Started With A Farmer

The Oxbow Story begins with a farmer, his craft, and a passion for perfection. Guided by five generations of family hay growing expertise, Oxbow Founder, John Miller, spent years honing the craft of producing premium hay. John was practiced in the art of waiting for the perfect harvest conditions (even if it meant harvesting beneath the stars) and developed a reputation for producing the most premium hay the market had to offer.... Read More

March 25, 2020

COVID-19 and RHD - What Pet Parents Need to Know

COVID-19 is top of mind for all pet parents these days, but we've received some questions from rabbit owners about RHD in recent days as well. Join Dr. Kohles as he discusses key information relating to both COVID-19 and Viral Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease (RHD). ... Read More

March 24, 2020

Oxbow Animal Health: Covid-19 Update

I hope this message finds you and your loved ones healthy and safe. On behalf of the entire Oxbow family, I want to share heartfelt support as you navigate the uncertainty and stress brought on by the coronavirus. As a loving pet parent, you may be wondering how the pandemic will affect your ability to purchase the food and other products your pet needs. That’s why I want to update you on the things Oxbow is doing to manage through this challenge. ... Read More

March 18, 2020

Pet of the Month March 2020

Congratulations to March's Pet of the Month, Newt Scamander!... Read More

March 18, 2020

Five Steps for a Successful Small Animal Foster

You have made the commitment to foster small animals. Congratulations! But, now what? Here are five tips from an experienced fosterer to help ensure a successful foster experience for everyone involved. ... Read More

March 17, 2020

Coronavirus and Small Pets: What You Need to Know

We have all been affected by the recent and worldwide Coronavirus/COVID-19 pandemic. Many pet parents have reached out to us to ask about the risk to your pets, so we wanted to take some time to address questions and concerns surrounding the Coronavirus and COVID-19 while providing some valuable information from various sources, including the AVMA (American Veterinary Medical Association). ... Read More

March 13, 2020

Quick Tips on Correctly Offering Fortified Food

Even seasoned pet parents can make simple mistakes when it comes to feeding fortified food to their pets. Here are some quick tips to keep your pet happy and healthy!... Read More

February 19, 2020

Dental Disease in Small Mammals

February is National Pet Dental Health Month! Veterinarians across the country frequently celebrate by providing discounted dental cleanings for dogs and cats, but what about our small herbivore and rodent companions? Is dental health as important for our exotic companion mammal friends? Absolutely, but in different ways! As animals with constantly growing teeth, dental disease is one of the most common health-related reasons small mammals are taken to their veterinarian every year. Though the cause varies, dental disease can result in substantial, and even life-threatening, health concerns in small pets, so it is essential to learn as much as possible about prevention and early detection.... Read More

February 18, 2020

February Pet of the Month

Congratulations to February's Pet of the Month, Henry (AKA Henry Lop Holland) and his pet parent, Valeriya!... Read More

February 11, 2020

Cane Molasses: Why Is It in My Pet’s Food

The digestive tracts of small hindgut fermenting mammals such as rabbits, guinea pigs, and chinchillas, are not designed to digest large amounts of simple carbohydrates and sugars. Because of this, it can be concerning to see ingredients that evoke thoughts of sweet, sugary food in your small pet’s daily diet. One prime example of an ingredient that sometimes gets a bad name (but one that serves an important purpose in our foods) is cane molasses. ... Read More

February 03, 2020

Should I Foster a Pet?

Have you ever thought about fostering a rabbit, guinea pig, or other small animal? Fostering is a great way to give back to small animals and the rescue community that cares for them, but there are many questions to ask yourself prior to making this commitment! By thoughtfully considering the following important factors, you will make your fostering experience a successful one for both the animal and your family. ... Read More

January 31, 2020

How to Transition Your Pet’s Food

There are numerous reasons you may want to change your small herbivore’s diet. Perhaps your furry friend is battling a chronic illness, has moved to another stage in life’s journey, or your veterinarian recommended a nutrition overhaul. Maybe your kiddo is a recent addition to the household and was previously fed a diet that didn’t fit your preferences as a pet parent. Or maybe you’re just looking to switch to a higher-quality, fortified pelleted diet. Learn more about how to safely and successfully transition your pet's food.... Read More

January 22, 2020

Critical Care Tips and Tricks

As a pet parent, you’re no doubt familiar with everyday nutrition in the form of hays, fortified foods, and healthy treats. But, what about those unexpected, more critical situations that sometimes occur in a pet’s life? ... Read More

January 10, 2020

The Expert Guide To Selecting Fresh Hay Your Pets Will Love

Whether your rabbit or guinea pig is a picky eater or equal opportunity diner of all types of hay, it’s always a good idea to select the freshest hay possible. Fresh, premium hay is most likely to be consumed regularly by small pets such as rabbits, guinea pigs, and chinchillas. ... Read More

December 30, 2019

New Year’s Pet Resolutions for 2020

With 2020 just around the corner, it's the perfect time to be thinking about how you'd like to create a happier, healthier, and altogether more enriched life for you and your pets! Here are some fun and useful tips and tricks to make the upcoming year the best one ever for you and your pets!... Read More

December 27, 2019

Oxbow Animal Health Announces Critical Care® Line & Formula Enhancements

For years, the name Critical Care has been synonymous with premium recovery nutrition in small animals. Oxbow is excited to announce that all of its Professional Line recovery products will now fall under the Critical Care line. This update helps improve product line consistency while limiting the opportunity for marketplace confusion. Today’s Critical Care line consists of: Critical Care - Herbivore, Critical Care - Herbivore Fine Grind, and Critical Care - Carnivore. ... Read More

December 23, 2019

Prebiotics and Probiotics: It’s All About the Bugs

With all of the hype over the last few years, you’ve likely heard the terms probiotics and/or prebiotics at least a few times. Whether related to animals or humans, pre- and probiotics have recently garnered a great deal of attention. But what exactly are these “magical bugs” and what do they do? Are they simply two words meaning the same thing? All great questions that deserve some answers.... Read More

December 23, 2019

Top 15 Holiday Pet Parent Presents

Need a last-minute gift for one of the loving pet parents in your life? Here are our top 15 favorite gift ideas!... Read More

November 19, 2019

Everything You Ever Wanted To Know About Fiber

We have all heard that fiber is a very important dietary component for our furry little exotic mammals. But why? And what exactly is fiber anyhow?... Read More

November 15, 2019

Fun Tips For Supporting Your Pet’s Health and Happiness

We all want our furry friends to live the happiest, healthiest lives possible. Providing optimum care for your small pet requires commitment and dedication, but it can be a lot of fun as well. Here are some fun tips for supporting your pet’s health and happiness each day.... Read More

November 13, 2019

How To Support Your Rabbit or Guinea Pig’s Instinctual Playing Behaviors Video

Playing is a fun and instinctual behavior of small pets such as rabbits, guinea pigs, and chinchillas. Watch as Dr. Micah Kohles of Oxbow Animal Health provides some quick tips on how to support your small pet's playing instincts.... Read More

October 25, 2019

DIY Halloween Jack-O-Lantern for Rabbits, Guinea Pigs, and Other Small Pets

Want a fun (and spooky) way to celebrate Halloween with your rabbit, guinea pig, or other small pet this year? Check out Oxbow's funny DIY Jack-O-Lantern!... Read More

October 22, 2019

Five Ways to Provide Daily Enrichment for Small Animals

Most of us know that a nutritious, balanced diet is essential to the daily health of our small furry friends. But, did you know that daily opportunities for enrichment are essential to your pet’s health and happiness as well? Enrichment can come in many forms, and providing enrichment opportunities is enjoyable for pet and pet parent alike. Here are five fun and easy ways to provide enrichment for small pets each day:... Read More

October 09, 2019

How Can I Help Prevent Excessive Weight Gain in My Pet?

Pets naturally gain and lose weight due to many factors like age, activity level, time of year, and health status. While weight gain is not always in itself a bad thing, the underlying factors that can cause excessive weight gain, or obesity, need to be understood, as they can lead to secondary health issues such as diabetes and skin disease, or worsen naturally-occurring, age-related diseases like arthritis and degenerative joint disease. In observance of Pet Obesity Awareness Day, here are some tips and tricks to help your small animal maintain a healthy weight:... Read More

September 16, 2019

Greens for Good - Oxbow’s Fresh Greens Garden for Rescue Pets

After last year’s long winter, spring was on our minds early in 2019. As we began dreaming of green leaves and spring gardens, the idea came to us! What if we planted a fresh greens garden at Oxbow – just for rescue pets in need?! As a company committed to premium nutrition for small pets, the idea was perfect!... Read More

September 16, 2019

How to Support Your Pet’s Instinctual Hiding Behaviors Video

Hiding is an instinctual behavior of small pets such as rabbits, guinea pigs, and chinchillas. Even in captivity, all small pets need a place to rest and relax from environmental stressors. Watch as Dr. Micah Kohles of Oxbow Animal Health provides some quick tips on how to support this instinctual behavior.... Read More

August 21, 2019

All About Hiding

Have you ever noticed your small pet looking for a place to hide during the day? Don’t be offended! Your pet is simply acting on a very basic and important survival instinct. In the wild, rabbits, guinea pigs, and chinchillas are prey animals and finding places to hide is essential to survival. Even in the safe confines of your home, it’s essential to provide places for your pet to hide away from environmental stressors. ... Read More

August 16, 2019

Help Us Give Back To Rescues! - “Nurture Their Nature” Donation Campaign

Our pets depend on us each day for the nutrition and care they need for health and happiness. And we know that rescues everywhere work tirelessly to provide for small pets in need. That's why we're so excited to announce our "Nurture Their Nature" campaign - a new donation campaign benefitting small animal rescues.... Read More

August 13, 2019

Healthy Treats and Foods for Hamsters and Gerbils

Hamsters and gerbils are fun and entertaining companions, but they come with unique nutritional requirements. What are some healthy and delicious foods and treats that you can offer your pet hamster or gerbil?... Read More

August 02, 2019

How to Support Your Pet’s Exploring Instincts

Small pets such as rabbits, guinea pigs, chinchillas, and others have a natural instinct to explore their surroundings. You can encourage this instinct in your pets by providing safe and enriching accessories, as well as by making simple modifications to “change up” the habitat. Learn more as Dr. Micah Kohles of Oxbow Animal Health provides helpful tips on how to support the healthy exploring behaviors of your pet!... Read More

July 25, 2019

All About Exploring

One of the great joys of small pet parenting is watching your pet excitedly explore their surroundings each day. Like all great explorers before them, your pet has an instinctual desire for an environment filled with interesting challenges and opportunities for enrichment. Read on to learn more about how to create an environment with fun, enriching opportunities that support your pet’s instinct to explore. ... Read More

July 22, 2019

How to Keep Your Pet From Being Bored

How can you keep your rabbit, guinea pig, or other small pet entertained and stave off boredom-based behaviors?... Read More

July 15, 2019

Tips for Traveling with Pets

Travel can stress anyone out, but it can especially take a toll on small animals. Here are some tips that can help ensure safe and comfortable travel for your pet.... Read More

July 01, 2019

Ways to Keep Your Pet Calm During Fireworks

Happy 4th of July! While fireworks, sparklers, and the holiday hoop-la may be a blast for we humans, our furry friends can be less than thrilled at the sounds and noises associated with our festivities. How can you keep your pet calm during the fireworks this evening? Take these simple steps to provide the extra nurturing that your pet may need tonight.... Read More

June 28, 2019

Ideal Temperatures for Small Pets

Much like their human counterparts, small exotic animals are susceptible to summer heat. So how can you keep your pet small pet safe and comfortable during the warm summer months? Read on to learn more about best practices when it comes to ideal room temperatures as well as tip-top cool down ideas for small exotic pets.... Read More

June 05, 2019

How to Support Your Pet’s Instinctual Chewing Behaviors

Chewing is an instinctual behavior of rabbits, guinea pigs, chinchillas, and other small pets. The many benefits of chewing include healthy dental wear, mental stimulation, preventing obesity and boredom-based behaviors, and the opportunity to build the bond with your pet. Learn more as Dr. Micah Kohles of Oxbow Animal Health provides helpful tips on how to support the healthy chewing behaviors of your pet!... Read More

June 05, 2019

All About Chewing Handout

Whether nibbling on their favorite hay, munching on leafy greens, or chewing on their favorite toy, small pets are wired to chew all day, every day. As it turns out, chewing is an instinctual behavior with important benefits to your pet’s health and happiness. Read on to learn more about how to provide an environment that helps meet this basic need.... Read More

May 20, 2019

The Importance of Natural Chew Variety

Did you know it's important for pets to have options when it comes to natural chews? By providing a variety and rotating which chews are available to your rabbit, guinea pig, rat, or other small pet, you can support their instinctual chewing behavior in enriching ways.... Read More

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gerbils hamsters Blog

Pellet-Free Diets for Small Herbivores: Good, Bad, or Unknown?

DIY Snack Wreath

The Scoop on Small Pet Poop: Normal, Abnormal, and Everything in Between

Final Fosters: Tips for a Successful Experience

Curbside Veterinary Care for Small Mammals

Toxic Plants and Small Mammals

Antioxidants and Their Role in Pet Health

Wellness Exam Checklist

Pet of the Month May 2020

Creating Foraging Opportunities for Your Small Pet

COVID-19 and Pets: Updated Information and Recommendations

Spending Time Outdoors with Your Small Mammal

Oxbow Launches “Full Bowls, Full Hearts” Campaign to Support Pets and Pet Parents Impacted by COVID

Foster 101: How to Help Your Fosters Find the Perfect Forever Home

Caring for Multiple Hamsters

It All Started With A Farmer

COVID-19 and RHD - What Pet Parents Need to Know

Oxbow Animal Health: Covid-19 Update

Pet of the Month March 2020

Five Steps for a Successful Small Animal Foster

Coronavirus and Small Pets: What You Need to Know

Quick Tips on Correctly Offering Fortified Food

Dental Disease in Small Mammals

February Pet of the Month

Cane Molasses: Why Is It in My Pet’s Food

Should I Foster a Pet?

How to Transition Your Pet’s Food

Critical Care Tips and Tricks

The Expert Guide To Selecting Fresh Hay Your Pets Will Love

New Year’s Pet Resolutions for 2020

Oxbow Animal Health Announces Critical Care® Line & Formula Enhancements

Prebiotics and Probiotics: It’s All About the Bugs

Top 15 Holiday Pet Parent Presents

Everything You Ever Wanted To Know About Fiber

Fun Tips For Supporting Your Pet’s Health and Happiness

How To Support Your Rabbit or Guinea Pig’s Instinctual Playing Behaviors Video

DIY Halloween Jack-O-Lantern for Rabbits, Guinea Pigs, and Other Small Pets

Five Ways to Provide Daily Enrichment for Small Animals

How Can I Help Prevent Excessive Weight Gain in My Pet?

Greens for Good - Oxbow’s Fresh Greens Garden for Rescue Pets

How to Support Your Pet’s Instinctual Hiding Behaviors Video

All About Hiding

Help Us Give Back To Rescues! - “Nurture Their Nature” Donation Campaign

Healthy Treats and Foods for Hamsters and Gerbils

How to Support Your Pet’s Exploring Instincts

All About Exploring

How to Keep Your Pet From Being Bored

Tips for Traveling with Pets

Ways to Keep Your Pet Calm During Fireworks

Ideal Temperatures for Small Pets

How to Support Your Pet’s Instinctual Chewing Behaviors

All About Chewing Handout

The Importance of Natural Chew Variety

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