How to Use Sundown Petting Pellets for Small Pets
By Gladwells Pet & Country Stores Online Shop | Published: 2026-10-24
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to use Sundown Petting Pellets as a high-fibre, low-energy alternative to grass pellets for hamsters, gerbils, and rats. Step-by-step guide with common mistakes to avoid.
Quick answer
Use Sundown Petting Pellets as a high-fibre, low-energy alternative to grass pellets for your small pets. Replace their usual pellets gradually over 7-10 days to avoid digestive upset.
Why choose Sundown Petting Pellets?
Sundown Petting Pellets are a high-fibre, low-energy feed, making them a suitable option for small pets that need to maintain a healthy weight without sacrificing roughage. They work well for hamsters, gerbils, and rats that are less active or prone to obesity.
The main trade-off is that their lower energy content means they may not be ideal for very young, growing animals or nursing mothers who require more calories. In those cases, stick with a higher-energy pellet until the animal reaches a stable adult weight.
How to introduce Sundown Petting Pellets
- Start with a 25:75 mix: Mix one part Sundown Petting Pellets with three parts of your pet's current pellet. Offer this blend for the first two days. Do not skip this step – a sudden switch can cause diarrhoea or refusal to eat.
- Increase to a 50:50 mix: For days 3–5, offer half Sundown Petting Pellets and half the old pellets. Watch for any changes in stool consistency or appetite. If your pet stops eating, go back to the previous ratio for another two days.
- Move to a 75:25 mix: On days 6–8, use three parts Sundown Petting Pellets to one part old pellets. This step helps the digestive system adapt to the higher fibre content. A temporary increase in thirst is normal – ensure fresh water is always available.
- Switch to 100% Sundown Petting Pellets: From day 9 onward, offer only Sundown Petting Pellets. Your pet should now be fully transitioned. If your pet shows signs of weight loss after two weeks, mix back in some of the original higher-energy pellet.
Product facts
- Sundown Petting Pellets 20kg: Replace your grass pellets with a high fibre, low energy alternative. This makes Sundown Petting Pellets a good choice for small pets that need to maintain weight or for owners who want to reduce calorie intake without cutting fibre.
Sundown Petting Pellets 20kg
