What Do Guinea Pigs Eat? [The Final List for Your Guinea Pig]

Guinea pigs, adorable and friendly small pets, require a proper diet to ensure their health and well-being. While they may look similar to hamsters or mice, guinea pigs have specific dietary needs that must be met to maintain optimal health. Their diet should consist of a combination of hay, fresh vegetables, fruits, and pellets formulated specifically for guinea pigs.

It is important to note that guinea pigs have sensitive digestive systems, and sudden changes in their diet can lead to digestive issues. It is recommended to do so gradually when introducing new foods and monitor their response. 

Additionally, regular veterinary check-ups are important to ensure your guinea pig’s diet meets its specific nutritional needs. A balanced diet is crucial for the well-being of guinea pigs.

Combining hay, fresh vegetables, fruits in moderation, and high-quality pellets formulated for guinea pigs is essential to provide them with the necessary nutrients for a healthy and happy life.

By meeting their dietary needs, you can ensure that your guinea pig thrives and enjoys a long and fulfilling companionship with you.

 

What Do Guinea Pigs Like To Eat In Their Life?

Guinea pigs enjoy a variety of foods throughout their lives. Their diet consists primarily of hay, fresh vegetables, fruits in moderation, and high-quality guinea pig pellets.

Hay, such as Timothy hay, is a staple and provides essential fiber for their digestive health. Fresh vegetables like romaine lettuce, bell peppers, and carrots offer important nutrients and hydration.

Guinea pigs can also enjoy occasional treats of fruits like apples, strawberries, or blueberries. Pellets formulated specifically for guinea pigs provide additional nutrition.

It’s important to introduce new foods gradually and monitor their response. Always provide fresh, clean water and consult with a veterinarian for specific dietary recommendations tailored to your guinea pig’s needs.

 

List of Fresh Fruits That Guinea Pigs Eat

In addition to vegetables, guinea pigs can also consume small amounts of fresh fruits. Apples, strawberries, blueberries, and watermelon can be given as occasional treats but should not make up a large portion of their diet due to the high sugar content.

Moderation is key when feeding fruits to prevent obesity and other health problems. Guinea pigs can enjoy a variety of fruits, but it’s important to remember that fruits should be given in moderation due to their high sugar content.

Here is a list of fruits that are safe for guinea pigs to eat:

Apples (remove seeds and core)

Apples are high in sugar. That’s why you should feed apples to your guinea pig in moderation. It should be one thin slice once a week. Consider feeding apples with skin that offers the most health benefits. But you must remove the seed before feeding them because apple seeds contain a poisonous compound.

Strawberries

Strawberries contain antioxidants, Vitamin C, and several other nutrients. Guinea pigs can eat both strawberry and their leaves. Feed them one strawberry per week.

Blueberries

Guinea pig love blueberries a lot. Though it is Low in calcium and high in sugar, it is also a great source of Vitamin C, antioxidants, and many other nutrients. Offer a few blueberries to your guinea pig once or twice a week.

Raspberries

Raspberry is also a great source of Vitamin C, fiber, potassium, and antioxidants. It also contains sugar. Feed a few pieces of raspberry once a week. You can also offer raspberry plants leave to your guinea pig.

Blackberries

You can feed blackberries to your guinea pig, but it should be in moderation due to high sugar content. It contains high vitamin C and antioxidants. Feed a few berries once a week as a treat.

Cherries

Due to containing high sugar, you can feed a maximum of one cherry a week. It is a great source of sugar and nutrients. Sweet and sour varieties are safe to eat, but do not feed leaves or stems to your cavies because they contain poisonous compounds.

Watermelon (remove seeds)

Watermelon shouldn’t be a regular diet of guinea pigs due to high sugar and potassium. You can offer watermelon in small amounts once a week. It is safe to feed the flesh and rind, not seeds.

Rock Melon

Rock melon contains a small amount of sugar and a high amount of vitamin C. Guinea pigs usually love to eat this type of fruit. You can feed a 1-inch cube of rock melon weekly to your guinea pig, but you should remove seeds and rind.

Kiwi

Kiwi fruit is one of the best sources of vitamin C and other nutrients. It also contains high sugar, some calcium, and phosphorus. That’s why it should not feed more than a thin slice once a week.

Oranges (in small amounts, due to high acidity)

Orange is the best source of vitamin C, but one thing to worry about is that it contains acidic and high sugar. That’s why you can feed any variety of oranges to your guinea pig in small amounts. It should be one slice once a week at most due to high acidity. Guinea pigs also love to eat fresh orange peels.

Grapes (seedless)

Grapes are another vitamin C and high sugar source. Also, guinea pigs love to eat green and red grapes. But you must remove the seeds before feeding them. Offer 1-2 grapes once a week at most as a treat because it should be fed very sparingly.

Pear (remove seeds and core)

Pear contains Vitamins C & K, potassium, and antioxidants. You can feed pear to your guinea pig up to one thin slice once a week. Though pears skin is safe, you must remove the seeds before feeding them.

Peaches

You can also feed a thin slice of peaches up to once a week. This fruit is full of Vitamins C, K, and E, nutrients, potassium, magnesium, zinc, and antioxidants. Try to feed peach to your guinea pig with peach skin.

Pineapple

If you want to feed pineapple to your guinea pig, then please avoid canned pineapples. Because it has been added sodium and preservatives, as you know, pineapples contain nutrients like Vitamins C & K, magnesium, and beta-carotene. Feed a small piece of fresh pineapple flesh once or twice a week. But please avoid pineapple leaves, prickly skin, and its core.

Papaya

You can feed a small amount or a thin slice of papaya once a week because it is a great source of Vitamin C, A, fiber, sugar, and potassium.

Mango

Mango is a seasonal fruit, and you can feed a thin slice of mango once a week. You may know that mango contains Vitamins A, C, B6, and other nutrients. As well as, mango contains high sugar, that’s why it should be offered sparingly. Remove its skin and pit before feeding. But avoid to feeding mango skin.

Bananas

Bananas contain high potassium and high sugar. It is also a great source of other nutrients. You can feed a couple of bites of banana a few times a month as a treat. Due to high sugar, too much bananas can cause constipation. You can also feed organic banana peels to your guinea pig.

Apricot

Apricot contains Vitamin A, potassium, high sugar, beta carotene, and other nutrients. You can offer a thin slice of apricot once a week.

Nectarine

If you want to feed a fruit that contains high nutrients and antioxidants, then you can feed nectarine. It is a variety of traditional peaches. The skin of nectarine is safe for your cavies, and you can feed a thin slice up to once a week.

Grapefruit

Grapefruit is an excellent source of Vitamin C, beta carotene, potassium, and other nutrients. But it is also acidic and high in sugar. That’s why you should feed a small slice of grapefruit a few times a month.

Guava

Guava is a fruit that is a high source of Vitamin C. You will be surprised to know that guava contains four times more vitamin C than an orange. But you should feed a small amount of guava or a thin slice once a week because it also contains acid and sugar.

Okra

Okra contains high vitamin C, calcium, and oxalic acid. If you feed okra in excess, then it can lead to stone development. That’s why you should provide a small chunk of okra once or twice weekly.

 

List of Vegetables That Guinea Pigs Eat

Fresh vegetables are another vital part of a guinea pig’s diet. They should be introduced gradually to avoid any digestive upsets. Guinea pigs can enjoy a variety of vegetables, such as romaine lettuce, bell peppers, carrots, cucumber, and zucchini.

Guinea pigs can enjoy a variety of vegetables as part of their diet. Here is a list of vegetables that are safe for guinea pigs to eat:

Lettuce

Lettuce is safe to feed daily in reasonable quantities. It should be one leaf per day. It contains high water, but too much lettuce feeding is unsafe for cavities. It can cause diarrhea.

That’s why you need to adjust the amount if required. There are various types of lettuce, including romaine, butterhead, green leaf, and red leaf. All these varieties are safe to feed, but avoid iceberg lettuce, which has lower nutritional value.

Bell Pepper (Capsicum)

Bell pepper is safe to eat daily. It gives them an excellent source of Vitamin C. The amount is approximately 1/6 of a bell pepper daily. You can feed all colors of bell pepper to guinea pigs.

Carrot Leaves

If possible, feed carrot leaves to your cavies because it contains a very rich nutrient, high calcium. But do not overfeed carrot leaves, feed in moderation. It should be a few bushy stems once a week.

Carrots

Guinea pigs also like to eat carrots. This vegetable contains high vitamin A and high sugar. You can offer a small-size carrot or a slice of a big carrot 2-3 times a week. Feed carrots in moderation due to their high sugar content.

Cucumber

A cucumber is safe to feed to your cavies with its flesh, skin, and seeds. It should be a daily diet list for your guinea pigs. Feed one small slice daily.

Pumpkin

Pumpkin is a vegetable that contains vitamin A and beta carotene. You can provide a small amount of pumpkin with its flesh and rind. But remove seeds before feeding.

Tomato

Tomato is another great source of vitamin C and other nutrients. You can feed small and large tomatoes to your cavies but do not feed too many tomatoes in a week because they are acidic and can cause mouth sores. Feed one cherry tomato 3-4 times a week.

If you want to feed large tomatoes, try to feed them a similar amount to cherry tomatoes. But do not feed leaves, stems, or unripe green tomatoes because they are poisonous.

Zucchini

Feeding zucchini to your guinea pig can be a healthy addition to their diet. Zucchini is a low-calorie vegetable rich in vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C and potassium.

It also contains fiber, which can aid in digestion. However, it’s important to introduce zucchini gradually and in moderation, as sudden changes in diet can upset your guinea pig’s digestive system.

Broccoli (including leaves and stems)

When it comes to feeding broccoli to your guinea pig, it’s important to do so in moderation. Broccoli is a nutritious vegetable containing vitamins, minerals, and fiber, which can benefit your guinea pig’s health.

However, it also contains certain compounds, such as isothiocyanates, that can cause digestive issues if consumed in large quantities.

As a general guideline, you can offer a small amount of broccoli as an occasional treat or part of a varied diet a few times a month. Start by introducing a small floret or a couple of broccoli leaves to your guinea pig’s meal.

Cauliflower

Feed a small amount of cauliflower once or twice a week. But do not feed more because cauliflower is a cruciferous vegetable, and if fed in excess, it can cause gas and bloat. Offer floret, leaves, and stalk of cauliflower.

Kale

If your guinea pig is under four months old, then kale is an excellent veggie for growing your guinea pigs. It contains high vitamin C, high calcium, fiber, and nutrients. That’s why it is recommended to feed with other low-calcium foods. Offer just a small leaf one or two times a week.

Arugula

Arugula is a leafy green vegetable that can provide certain nutritional benefits to guinea pigs. It can be a healthy choice as long as it is given in moderation. Ensure that your arugula is fresh, clean, and free from pesticides or contaminants. Wash the leaves thoroughly before feeding them to your guinea pigs.

Feed arugula to your guinea pigs sparingly. While it is nutritious, it contains a compound called oxalates, which in large amounts, can interfere with calcium absorption and potentially lead to urinary issues. Offer a small handful of arugula once or twice weekly as a treat.

Spinach

You can feed your guinea pig baby spinach because it contains extremely high calcium levels and oxalates. This is very helpful for growth. You can feed a few spinach leaves once or twice a month.

Dandelion Greens

You can feed dandelion greens to guinea pigs. It can be a nutritious choice and a healthy addition to their diet. Dandelion greens are leafy vegetables that offer various health benefits for guinea pigs.

Ensure that your dandelion greens are free from pesticides, chemicals, or contaminants. Start with a small amount and observe their response. Some guinea pigs may have individual preferences or sensitivities. Offer a small handful of leaves a few times a week.

Celery (including leaves)

Celery is generally safe for guinea pigs but should be done in moderation. It can provide some nutritional benefits to guinea pigs. It is high in water and fiber content, which can lead to digestive upset if given in large amounts. Offer small, thin slices of celery occasionally as a treat rather than a regular part of their diet.

Green Beans

Green beans are a nutritious vegetable with several benefits for guinea pigs. It can be a healthy addition to their diet when given in moderation. Before feeding your guinea pigs green beans, ensure they are fresh and thoroughly washed. Remove any ends or strings that may be difficult for them to chew or digest.

Feed green beans to your guinea pigs in small amounts. Offer a few pieces once or twice a week as a treat. Overfeeding can lead to digestive issues, so it’s important to maintain a balanced diet.

Beetroot

Feeding beetroot is not recommended to guinea pigs as a regular part of their diet. It can be done in moderation. Beetroot is a root vegetable that contains natural sugars and can be high in oxalates, which may pose health risks if consumed in excess.

Feed beetroot to your guinea pigs sparingly. Due to its sugar content and high oxalate levels, offering small, thin slices as an occasional treat rather than a regular addition to their diet is best.

Peas (fresh or frozen)

Peas should be part of a varied diet for guinea pigs. Along with peas, they should have a consistent base diet of hay, fresh water, and guinea pig pellets that provide essential nutrients. Feed peas to your guinea pigs in small amounts. Offer a few peas occasionally, once or twice a week.

Overfeeding peas or fresh food can lead to digestive issues, so moderation is key. Introducing new vegetables gradually and observing your guinea pig’s response is important. Wash all vegetables thoroughly before offering them to your pet.

Additionally, be aware of any specific dietary restrictions or health conditions your guinea pig may have, as certain vegetables may need to be limited or avoided. Consulting with a veterinarian is always recommended to ensure your guinea pig’s dietary needs are met.

 

List of Herbs That Guinea Pigs Can Eat

Guinea pigs can enjoy a variety of herbs as part of their diet. Here is a list of herbs that are safe for guinea pigs to eat:

Basil

Contains a small amount of Vitamin C. It is also high in calcium. You can provide a few leaves once a week as a treat.

Cilantro (Coriander)

Cilantro also contains some amount of vitamin C. But it has a relatively high amount of calcium. You can offer cilantro five stems 1-2 times a week.

Dill

Dill contains a high amount of vitamin C and calcium. You can feed 1/2 stem 1-2 times a week.

Mint (Peppermint, Spearmint)

Basically, peppermint and spearmint leaves are recommended to feed them because these are safe and contain some Vitamin C & calcium. Feed a small amount of leaves once a week or less, depending on the calcium levels.

Parsley

Parsley is an excellent source of Vitamin C and nutrients. It also contains a good amount of calcium and oxalates. Curly & Italian parsley flat-leaf and stems are safe to feed. Offer five sprigs once a week.

Raspberry Leaves

Raspberry Leaves are healthy & contain many nutrients. Feed a few leaves 3-4 times a week.

Thyme

Thyme contains Vitamin C, high levels of calcium at 405mg per 100 grams, and other nutrients. But you should feed one small thyme stem a few times a month. When offering herbs to your guinea pig, it’s important to ensure they are fresh, free from pesticides or chemicals, and thoroughly washed.

 

List of Pellets For Guinea Pigs

Pellets formulated specifically for guinea pigs can provide additional nutrition to supplement their hay and vegetable intake. These pellets are designed to meet their specific dietary requirements, including essential vitamins and minerals.

It is important to choose high-quality pellets that are free from added sugars or artificial additives. A general guideline is to feed about 1/8 cup of pellets per day per guinea pig, but portion sizes may vary depending on age, weight, and overall health.

Several reputable brands offer high-quality pellets specifically formulated for guinea pigs. Here is a list of some popular pellet options for guinea pigs:

• Oxbow Animal Health Meadow Hay
• Small Pet Select Guinea Pig Food Pellets
• Kaytee Forti-Diet Pro Health Food for Pet Guinea Pigs
• Kaytee Timothy Hay Plus Carrots for Pet Guinea Pigs
• Supreme Science Selective Guinea Pig Food
• Higgins SUNBURST GOURMET BLEND Guinea Pig Food
• Vitakraft Vita Smart Guinea Pig Food
• ZuPreem Timothy Naturals Pet Guinea Pig Food
• Vitakraft Menu Premium Guinea Pig Food

When selecting pellets for your guinea pig, look for options specifically formulated for guinea pigs, as they contain the necessary nutrients and vitamins required for optimal health.

It’s important to read the product labels and choose pellets free from added sugars, artificial colors, and preservatives. A balanced diet that includes hay, fresh vegetables, and little pellets will help meet your guinea pig’s nutritional needs.

 

Type of Hay For Guinea Pigs

Hay is a crucial component of a guinea pig’s diet, providing the essential fiber for proper digestion. Timothy hay is the most commonly recommended type for guinea pigs, as it aids in dental health and prevents dental issues that can arise from their continuously growing teeth.

It should always be available, ensuring a constant supply for grazing. Several types of hay are suitable and recommended for guinea pigs. Timothy hay is the most commonly recommended and readily available type of hay for guinea pigs.

Timothy hay is low in calcium, high in fiber, and helps promote healthy digestion in guinea pigs. It also aids in wearing down their continuously growing teeth, preventing dental issues. In addition to Timothy hay, other types of hay that can be fed to guinea pigs include:

Orchard Grass Hay

Similar to Timothy hay, orchard grass hay is also high in fiber and beneficial for guinea pigs. It provides variety in taste and texture. Orchard grass hay is a suitable and commonly recommended hay for guinea pigs.

It is high in fiber and provides essential nutrients for their digestive health. Guinea pigs enjoy the taste and texture of orchard grass hay, making it a great addition to their diet. It can be fed as a primary hay source alongside Timothy hay or as a rotational hay option.

Ensure the orchard grass hay is fresh and free from dust, mold, or other contaminants. Offering various hay options, including orchard grass hay, helps provide enrichment and promotes a balanced diet for guinea pigs. As always, consult a veterinarian for specific recommendations based on your guinea pig’s needs.

Meadow Hay

Meadow hay combines different grasses and herbs, providing a diverse blend of flavors and textures for your guinea pig’s enjoyment. Meadow hay is a suitable hay option for guinea pigs.

Meadow hay is high in fiber, aiding in healthy digestion and promoting dental health. It can be fed as part of their daily hay intake alongside Timothy hay or orchard grass hay. Ensure your meadow hay is fresh and free from dust, mold, or other contaminants.

Providing various hay options, including meadow hay, enriches your guinea pig’s diet and helps ensure they receive a balanced nutritional intake. As always, consult a veterinarian for specific recommendations based on your guinea pig’s needs.

Alfalfa Hay

Alfalfa hay is suitable for specific stages of a guinea pig’s life, such as young guinea pigs (up to six months old), pregnant or nursing guinea pigs, or guinea pigs with certain health conditions that require additional nutrition.

However, it is not recommended as a staple hay for adult guinea pigs due to its higher calcium and protein content. Adult guinea pigs have lower calcium requirements, and excessive calcium intake can lead to urinary issues such as bladder stones.

It’s important to consult a veterinarian to determine if and when alfalfa hay should be incorporated into a guinea pig’s diet based on their needs.

Oat Hay

Oat hay is generally not recommended as the main hay for guinea pigs. While it can be given as a treat or occasional addition to their diet, it should not replace the primary hay sources such as Timothy hay or orchard grass hay.

Oat hay tends to be higher in fat and lower in fiber compared to Timothy hay, which is not ideal for the digestive health of guinea pigs. It’s best to provide Timothy hay as the primary hay source and offer oat hay sparingly to add variety to their diet.

As with any changes in diet, it’s important to monitor your guinea pig’s response and consult with a veterinarian if you have any concerns.

Ryegrass

Ryegrass is a type of grass that can be fed to guinea pigs as part of their hay diet. It is a nutritious option that provides variety in taste and texture. Guinea pigs can enjoy ryegrass hay alongside suitable hays, such as Timothy hay or orchard grass hay.

However, ensuring the ryegrass hay is fresh and free from dust, mold, or other contaminants is important. As with any dietary changes, introduce ryegrass hay gradually and monitor your guinea pig’s response. Consult a veterinarian for specific recommendations based on your guinea pig’s needs.

Bermuda Grass

Bermuda grass is not commonly recommended as the main hay for guinea pigs. While it is safe for them to consume, Bermuda grass hay tends to be lower in fiber compared to Timothy hay or orchard grass hay. Fiber is essential to a guinea pig’s diet, as it promotes healthy digestion and prevents potential issues like dental problems or gastrointestinal blockages.

It’s best to provide Timothy hay or orchard grass hay as the primary hay sources for guinea pigs and consider offering Bermuda grass hay as a supplement or occasional treat. Consult a veterinarian for specific dietary recommendations tailored to your guinea pig’s needs.

 

What Do Guinea Pigs Eat Daily?

It would help if you remembered that most of the guinea pig’s diet comes from hey grass. Guinea pigs consume 80% of their diet from grass. Though fruits, vegetables, and pellets are also a good source of diet for them. Guinea pigs have specific dietary needs that should be met daily.

Here’s a general guideline for what and how much they should eat:

Hay

Fresh, high-quality hay should be available to guinea pigs at all times. Timothy hay is the most commonly recommended type, but orchard grass hay or meadow hay are suitable options. Guinea pigs must eat hay to maintain healthy digestion, wear down their teeth, and provide mental stimulation. Offer a generous handful of hay per guinea pig daily.

Pellets

Guinea pig pellets should be fed in moderation as a supplemental source of nutrition. Look for high-quality, specifically formulated guinea pig pellets free from added sugars or artificial additives. Offer approximately 1/8 to 1/4 cups of pellets per guinea pig per day.

Fresh Vegetables

Guinea pigs should be given a variety of fresh vegetables daily to ensure they receive essential vitamins and minerals. Good vegetable options include romaine lettuce, bell peppers, cucumbers, zucchini, carrots, and leafy greens like kale or spinach. Provide approximately 1 cup of vegetables per guinea pig per day.

Fresh Fruits

Fruits should be considered occasional treats due to their higher sugar content. Offer small amounts of fresh fruits such as apples, strawberries, blueberries, or melons. Limit the portion to 1-2 tablespoons per guinea pig daily.

Fresh Water

Water is an essential component of a guinea pig’s diet. Fresh, clean water should always be available, preferably in a water bottle securely attached to the enclosure to prevent contamination.

Additional Considerations:

While the foods mentioned above form the core of a guinea pig’s daily diet, there are a few additional considerations to keep in mind:

Treats

Treats can occasionally be given, such as small pieces of fruit like apple or pear or a small number of dried herbs like chamomile or calendula. However, treats should be offered sparingly to avoid upsetting their digestive system or causing weight gain.

Vitamin C

Guinea pigs require a dietary source of vitamin C, as they cannot produce it naturally. Ensure their diet includes foods rich in vitamin C or provide a vitamin C supplement specifically formulated for guinea pigs, as directed by a veterinarian.

 

What Do Guinea Pigs Need?

Guinea pigs have specific needs to ensure their health and well-being. Here is a complete list of what guinea pigs need:

Proper Housing

Guinea pigs need a spacious, secure cage or enclosure with adequate ventilation, bedding, and hiding spots. The cage should be large enough to allow exercise and exploration.

Balanced Diet

Guinea pigs require hay, fresh vegetables, pellets, and fresh water. Hay should always be available, and vegetables and pellets should be provided daily in appropriate portions.

Social Interaction

Guinea pigs are social animals and need companionship. It is ideal for keeping them in pairs or small groups of the same gender to prevent loneliness and promote mental well-being.

Mental Stimulation

Guinea pigs need mental stimulation through toys, tunnels, and objects to chew on. This helps prevent boredom and promotes natural behaviors.

Veterinary Care

Regular veterinary check-ups are important to monitor their health, address any potential issues, and ensure vaccinations and parasite prevention are current.

Grooming

Guinea pigs require regular grooming, including nail trimming and dental checks. Their fur should be kept clean and free from mats or debris.

Exercise

Guinea pigs need daily exercise outside their cage in a safe and supervised area. Providing them with opportunities to run, explore, and play helps maintain their physical health.

Clean Environment

Guinea pigs thrive in a clean environment. Their cage should be cleaned regularly, soiled bedding should be replaced to prevent odors and maintain hygiene. Meeting these needs can provide a comfortable and enriching environment for your guinea pigs, ensuring their overall well-being and happiness.

 

What Do Guinea Pigs Eat and Drink?

Guinea pigs primarily eat hay, fresh fruits & vegetables, and pellets and drink fresh water. Hay, such as timothy hay, is an essential component of their diet and should always be available to them.

Fresh vegetables provide important vitamins and minerals, including leafy greens like lettuce and spinach, bell peppers, cucumbers, and carrots. Guinea pig pellets formulated specifically for their nutritional needs should be given daily.

Fresh, clean water should always be accessible to guinea pigs and should be changed regularly to ensure its freshness. It is important to provide a varied diet and consult a veterinarian to ensure their nutritional requirements are met.

And learn more about, Nutrient Requirements of the Guinea Pig.

 

What Do Guinea Pigs Eat The Most?

The food that guinea pigs eat the most is hay. Hay should make up most of their diet and always be available to them.

Guinea pigs have a unique digestive system that requires a constant supply of high-quality hay to promote proper digestion and wear down their continuously growing teeth.

Hay provides essential fiber and nutrients, helps maintain healthy gut function, and supports dental health in guinea pigs.

 

Why Do I Need To Give My Guinea Pig Vitamin C?

You need to give your guinea pig vitamin C because they cannot produce it naturally in their bodies. Unlike humans and other animals, Guinea pigs lack the enzyme necessary for synthesizing vitamin C.

Therefore, providing them with an external source of this essential vitamin through their diet is crucial. Vitamin C is necessary to properly function in various bodily processes, including developing and maintaining healthy skin, bones, and connective tissues.

A deficiency in vitamin C can lead to serious health issues in guinea pigs, such as scurvy, a weakened immune system, joint problems, and poor wound healing.

By ensuring your guinea pig receives adequate vitamin C through their diet or with a veterinarian-recommended supplement, you can help maintain their overall health and well-being.

 

How Much Vitamin C Does Guinea Pig Need Daily?

Guinea pigs require a daily vitamin C intake since their bodies cannot produce it independently. The recommended amount of vitamin C for guinea pigs is 10-30 mg daily.

It’s important to note that the exact requirement may vary based on factors such as the guinea pig’s age, overall health, and individual needs.

To ensure they receive enough vitamin C, you can provide a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables rich in this essential nutrient. Some good sources of vitamin C for guinea pigs include bell peppers, kale, broccoli, parsley, strawberries, and oranges.

Additionally, you can consider offering vitamin C supplements specifically formulated for guinea pigs. It’s always advisable to consult with a veterinarian to determine the appropriate dosage and best sources of vitamin C based on your guinea pig’s specific requirements.

 

How Much Calcium Does Guinea Pig Need Daily?

Guinea pigs require a limited amount of calcium in their daily diet. Excessive calcium intake can lead to health issues, particularly urinary problems like bladder stones. The recommended daily calcium intake for guinea pigs is 10-50 mg daily.

Additionally, offering a variety of fresh vegetables, pellets formulated specifically for guinea pigs, and occasional treats can contribute to their calcium intake.

However, avoiding excessive calcium supplementation is crucial, particularly through sources like calcium-rich vegetables or mineral blocks intended for other small animals.

A balanced diet with appropriate calcium levels and monitoring your guinea pig’s overall health and urinary function are key.

If you have any concerns or questions about your guinea pig’s calcium intake, it’s always best to consult a veterinarian specializing in small animals.

 

Final Words

As responsible guinea pig owners, we must also prioritize their hydration by constantly providing fresh, clean water. Guinea pigs are adorable pets that thrive on a diet that consists primarily of fresh hay, high-quality guinea pig pellets, and various fresh fruits and vegetables.

The hay provides essential fiber for their digestive system, while the pellets offer necessary vitamins and minerals. Incorporating a wide range of fruits and vegetables into their diet ensures they receive additional nutrients and prevents boredom.

However, it’s important to remember that not all foods are safe for guinea pigs, and certain items such as chocolate, onions, and potatoes should be avoided.

 

Useful Links: Molar Teeth and Investing Tissues of Normal Guinea Pigs, Alfalfa and Timothy hay

PDF: Nutrition in Timothy Hay