Careful planning and gradual introduction are key. Large animals should be kept busy through exercise prior to an introduction.
Diet for guinea pigs should consist of unlimited grass hay and small amounts of high-quality pellets, with cabbage, cauliflower and other gassy veggies avoided; fresh, organic fruits and veggies rich in vitamin C should also be given regularly as treats.
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1. Guinea pigs are omnivores
Guinea Pigs may technically be considered omnivores, but their gut flora are best adapted for an herbivorous diet. Starting off with high-quality Timothy Hay and Pellets as their foundation diet, guinea pigs can also enjoy eating dark leafy vegetables such as carrots or apples as well as fruits such as bananas.
Your guinea pig should be introduced to any new foods gradually to allow their digestive tract time to adjust; too many new items at once could result in digestive upset and cause digestive discomfort.
Guinea pigs can be susceptible to parasites like tapeworms and roundworms, which can spread easily from animal to animal by eating their waste.
Dogs that consume guinea pigs may develop infections that lead to diarrhea or lethargic behavior; and infected guinea pigs may die as a result. When this happens, owners often feel guilt and grief that something could have been done sooner to prevent such incidents from occurring.
2. Guinea pigs are carnivores
Guinea pigs are polygynous animals, meaning that both male and female cavies form social hierarchies over food resources and social hierarchy. After gestating for two to three months, sows give birth to litters of three or four pups that will then be weaned off at three weeks and begin eating solid food shortly thereafter.
Your first priority when caring for guinea pigs should be feeding them high-quality hay and fresh vegetables, with occasional pellets and fruits as part of their diet.
Guinea pigs require plenty of water and exercise. If your pet becomes sick, veterinary assistance should be sought immediately as these small rodents are susceptible to many diseases including Salmonella. They can also suffer from lack of Vitamin C due to viral infections prevalent in poor living environments.
3. Guinea pigs are herbivores
Guinea pigs are herbivores with digestive systems designed to process vegetation only; eating meat would likely make them severely ill.
Fruit can make an occasional treat for your guinea pig, though its consumption should be done sparingly due to its sugar content. Small pieces of apple, pears, oranges, bananas, kiwis and strawberries should all be suitable. Your cavy should mainly consume pellets designed specifically for them with higher proportions of fiber than protein and Vitamin C included in their formulas.
If your dog lunges at your guinea pig, you should immediately restrict their interaction until both have had time to calm down and relax in each other’s presence. If your guinea pig begins acting sick, consult a veterinarian immediately. Signs such as being uninterested in food may indicate GI stasis – which is a serious health concern.
4. Guinea pigs are omnivores
Guinea pigs don’t have digestive systems designed to handle meat, and eating any may cause health problems or parasite infections.
Guinea Pig diet should include fruits and vegetables along with hay and pellets. If in doubt about what food to feed your guinea pig, please seek professional advice from a veterinarian.
Before introducing your dog or cat to a guinea pig, allow them to smell them from a distance first. If they appear nervous, wait and try again later. It is also important to use gentle body language and move at an easy pace during introductions – if unsure of how best to manage this task seek assistance from either your veterinarian or a friend for guidance. Also ensure the guinea pig is safely contained; any time they start to move or become excited too quickly could signal that this introduction is too soon – otherwise they might flee or hide, which could spell disaster!
