Since sulcata’s are grass eating tortoises, you’ll need an alternative to grass in the winter months. Hay is the perfect choice. But, not all tortoises take to eating loose hay, so hay pellets provide a healthy winter staple for those pickier tortoises.
Feeding your sulcata pellets is more convenient than feeding loose hay. No more loose hay bits inside the tortoise enclosure. But, if you prefer your tortoise to eat loose hay, pellets are an easy transition to hay, especially if your sulcata is already eating Mazuri or Zoo Med Grassland.
Soak them in water and offer with your sulcata’s favorite greens and grasses.
Timothy Hay Pellets for Sulcata Tortoise
Timothy hay pellets provide a highly digestible fiber that is low in protein and high in minerals like calcium, phosphorus, potassium and others.
If your tortoise doesn’t like loose timothy hay, try hay pellets or cubes.
Analysis
- Crude protein min – 10.0%
- Crude fat min – 1.5%
- Crude fiber max – 32.0%
Look for a timothy hay pellet that is 100% timothy hay without additives, preservatives or fillers.
Orchard Pellets for Sulcata Tortoise
Orchard hay is a popular hay for sulcata tortoises. It is similar to timothy hay but contains slightly less protein. Orchard hay often lacks the stems that timothy hay includes. Orchard pellets
Analysis
- Crude protein min – 7.0%
- Crude fat min – 1.5%
- Crude fiber max – 32.0%
Alfalfa Pellets for Sulcata Tortoise
Alfafa is higher in protein than other hays, but with a varied diet, it can be a great addition. Alfalfa hay is a good source of vitamins and nutrients like calcium, phosphorus, potassium and magnesium. Alfalfa even has small amounts of D3.
Analysis:
- Crude protein min – 16.0%
- Crude fat min – 1.5%
- Crude fiber max – 32.0%
If you’re not sure if you want to buy 100% alfalfa hay pellets, then try a blended alfalfa cube. Look for hay cubes that are made with timothy hay and alfalfa hay without any additives. This can also be a healthy option along with a varied diet.
