Cut timothy hay for sulcata tortoises is a great substitute for grass during the winter months when fresh grass is sparing. You can choose from three different cuts of timothy hay.
Different cuts of hay is generally used to describe when the hay is cut during the season. Depending on when timothy is harvested, the amount of stems and fuzzy seed heads will vary. Also, the level of proteins, fats and fiber will vary between first and third cut timothy hay.
As a staple hay for sulcata tortoises, feed first and/or second cut timothy hay. Third cut timothy hay should be offered as a treat.
First Cut Timothy Hay
First cut timothy hay is the first hay harvested for the year. It’s cut before the hay blooms. If cut early, the stems are relatively thin and flexible, but cut too late, the hay can be tough and crunchy. First cut hay often has the most fuzzy seed heads and stems. It tends to be lighter with more yellow/brown parts.
First cut timothy hay usually has a higher fiber and a lower protein and fat.
Second Cut Timothy Hay
Second cut timothy hay typically has more leaves on the stems. The stems are often thinner, and you often see fewer fuzzy seed heads. It is darker than the first cut.
Second cut timothy hay has slightly higher protein and fat content than first cut and the crude fiber is slightly less.
Third Cut Timothy Hay
Third cut timothy hay is super soft and leafy. It’s the third harvest of the season. It typically contains very few fuzzy seed heads and stems. It is really thick and green.
Third cut timothy hay has higher levels of proteins and fats and lower fiber when compared to the first and second cuts.
Third cut timothy hay is best offered sparingly as a treat because it is higher in proteins and fats.
