Timothy Hay Cones?

[squishychinchi]

Hi everyone,

I have a question on the timothy hay "cones" (I am not sure what they are called).

Recently one of my chinchillas, which is temporary in my brother's care, developed watery poo. He is going nuts, cleaning its cage everyday, making sure the chinchilla is not exposed to any bacterias or anything.

I told my brother to pull the pellets and give him hay and water only. However, instead of Oxbow, which what I usually get my chinchillas, my brother bought a bag from the pet store and my brother says that the hay looks different.... in that they have the white fuzzy "cones" at the end of the hay.

I did tell him to switch back to Oxbow and give the chinchilla some acidophilus. He says that the poo is still soft, but at least not watery today.

I am not sure what those "cones" are and I am worried this might be causing the chinchilla to have watery poo? Or maybe the switching of hay? Please help!!!!

 

[Nancy S]

I'd switch back hay to oxbow. Also, give a piece shredded wheat/ or burnt toast to correct diarrhea problem (absolutely tell him no treats or extras till problem solved). Good idea with the acidophilus. Since the poo isn't watery--sounds like he's on the right path to good health--but, keep an eye on. Important to not get dehydrated--plenty water; make sure drinking lots. Glad to hear 'brother' is a clean freak!!hehe

 

[starleomach]

The fuzzy cones at the top sound almost like the hay was harvested too late and went to seed, which lowers the nutritional value of it. but sounds like you are treating the loose poops the right way other than the hay needing to be better

 

[Spoof]

The 'cones' are the seed heads. Nothing to worry too much about. Watery poo is probably from stress, obviously you aren't there so their lifestyle has changed.

 

[squishychinchi]

Thanks so much guys! My brother is freaking out because he <3 animals and of course he wants the chinchillas to be happy and healthy. I will tell him your advices and hopefully my chinchilla will get better soon!