Sampler Hay Box vs. Gourmet Hay: Which Timothy Hay to Buy

Two Different Ways to Add Variety

If you're deciding between the Sampler Hay Box and Gourmet Hay, the choice comes down to what kind of variety you want. The Sampler Hay Box lets you try four different hay types in separate portions, while Gourmet Hay mixes several kinds of hay with herbs and flowers into one blend. Both are designed to add interest to your small pet's diet, but they serve different purposes.

The Sampler Hay Box is a good fit if you're still figuring out which hay your rabbit or guinea pig prefers, or if you want to rotate different hay types. Gourmet Hay is better if you already have a base hay and want an occasional topper or mix-in to perk up appetite.

What's Inside Each Option

• Sampler Hay Box: Contains 2 lbs. each of 2nd cutting 'perfect blend' Timothy, 3rd cutting 'super soft' Timothy, Oat hay, and Orchard hay. That's four distinct hay types in one box.
• Gourmet Hay: A blend of several kinds of hay loaded with sweet-smelling herbs and flowers. It's designed to be served on its own or mixed with your pet's regular hay.

Sampler Hay Box: Four Hays to Compare

• Sampler Hay Box: Contains 2 lbs. each of 2nd cutting 'perfect blend' Timothy, 3rd cutting 'super soft' Timothy, Oat hay, and Orchard hay. You get four separate hay types to test, which helps you learn what your pet actually eats and enjoys.

  

• Sampler Hay Box: Hand-packed and sourced from hay farmers in Washington State with over 30 years of connections. Indicates careful sourcing and packing, which matters for freshness and consistency.

Gourmet Hay: Herbs and Flowers Mixed In

• Gourmet Hay: Several kinds of hay loaded with sweet-smelling herbs and flowers. The added herbs and flowers create a different texture and aroma, which can entice picky eaters.

  

• Gourmet Hay: Serve on its own, or mix it with your animal's regular hay. Flexible serving options let you use it as a topper or a standalone treat without changing your whole routine.

Which One Fits Your Pet?

• Choose the Sampler Hay Box if...: You're new to a pet and want to discover which hay type they prefer, or you want to rotate different hays to keep meals interesting. It's also useful if you're unsure whether your guinea pig or rabbit does better with Timothy, oat, or orchard hay.
• Choose Gourmet Hay if...: You already have a staple hay and want to add a flavorful topper to encourage eating. It's also a good option if your pet enjoys herbal textures and you want a ready-made mix rather than separate bags.

Practical Considerations

The Sampler Hay Box gives you more control because each hay type is separate, so you can feed them individually or mix them yourself. Gourmet Hay is more convenient if you want a single blend with herbs already included. Keep in mind that neither product comes with specific feeding amounts or frequency instructions in the supplied information, so you'll need to adjust based on your pet's regular diet and preferences.

Both products are hand-packed by Small Pet Select, and the company emphasizes its direct relationships with farmers. That said, the Sampler Hay Box includes four 2-lb. portions, which may be more than a single small pet can eat before it loses freshness. Gourmet Hay comes in a single standard size, so it may be easier to store if you have limited space.