Guinea pigs naturally enjoy grass, so it’s important to ensure it is safe for them to eat and hasn’t been sprayed with herbicides or pesticides. Grass should never be given as a treat without supervision.
Grain and hay are essential parts of your guinea pig’s diet. Not only does it keep their teeth trimmed, but it also keeps their digestive system healthy and functioning optimally.
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Grass is a natural food
Grass is an essential component of a guinea pig’s natural diet. It’s packed with essential vitamins and nutrients that promote a strong immunity system.
Your guinea pig’s grass should be free from fertilizers and pesticides, to guarantee its health isn’t compromised by potentially hazardous chemicals present in lawns.
Guinea pigs require plenty of forage in their diet to support gastrointestinal health and dental health. This means hay should comprise at least 80% of your piggie’s food intake.
In addition to hay, offer fresh vegetables and fruit at each feeding. Start with some greens like kale or spinach at each meal, along with carrots and cucumbers for sweetness. As a treat, serve smaller amounts of fresh fruit like wedges of orange or apple for an added treat.
It is a good source of fiber
Guinea pigs are herbivores and require plenty of fiber in their diet for a healthy digestive tract. Grass contains plenty of long-strand fiber which aids in digestion.
Hay is also an excellent source of calcium for guinea pigs, helping to prevent bone deformities and strengthen their teeth.
Timothy hay is a popular choice for guinea pigs, but you could also try organic orchard grass instead. While slightly lower in protein than timothy, it still provides plenty of fiber content.
Orchard grass makes for a great substitution for timothy hay due to its sweeter aroma and softer texture.
Grass should comprise at least 80% of your guinea pig’s diet, and fresh fruits or vegetables may occasionally be added for variety. However, these should only be offered in small amounts (e.g., one cup per day).
It is a good source of vitamin C
Grass is an excellent source of vitamin C, which is essential for guinea pigs. Additionally, it contains fiber which aids digestion and helps prevent stomach upsets or illnesses.
Guinea pigs require a lot of vitamin C, as it plays an essential role in their immune system, bone formation and blood vessel integrity. Without enough of this vital nutrient they could develop scurvy – an uncomfortable and potentially lethal condition for your pet.
Guinea pigs should be fed fresh green vegetables and fruits that are high in this nutrient. They can also get supplemental Vitamin C from pelleted foods or specially designed supplements designed for them.
Grass can be an excellent guinea pig food source, provided it’s not chemically treated. Make sure it’s free from lawn chemicals, fertilizers, pesticides or herbicides since these can do serious harm to your pet.
It is a good source of calcium
Grass is packed with calcium and can be an excellent source for your guinea pig’s nutrition. Additionally, it provides them with fiber and vitamin C in abundance.
However, grass should never replace hay as it contains essential nutrients your guinea piggies cannot get from other foods. Furthermore, hay also helps prevent digestion problems and diarrhea in your pet.
Fresh grass is a great alternative to hay for your guinea pigs, though be mindful that too much may lead to digestive issues.
