Guinea pigs require plenty of Vitamin C and potassium for proper body functioning and fighting arthritis.
Apples contain both of these nutrients in abundance; however, their sugar content makes them should only be fed occasionally as treats to avoid digestive upset and diarrhoea.
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Bananas
Bananas contain high concentrations of potassium, which helps prevent kidney stones and promote healthy blood flow. Furthermore, bananas are an excellent source of vitamin C which is vital to their guinea pig’s wellbeing.
Bananas contain high amounts of sugar and should only be fed in limited amounts – 2-3 slices from an overripe banana should suffice as treats for your guinea pig.
Not only should you offer bananas to your guinea pigs, but also other fruits and vegetables rich in Vitamin C such as oranges, kiwis and strawberries – but be sure to introduce these foods gradually so as to prevent diarrhea in their diet.
Apples
Guinea Pigs rarely develop allergies or intolerances to apples; however, overfeeding or excessive quantities could cause negative side effects like bloating, diarrhea and digestive issues.
Apples provide important fiber, Vitamin C and potassium nutrients. When feeding apples to guinea pigs in moderation, too much sugar may lead to obesity and dental issues for their wellbeing.
Choose organic apples as they contain fewer pesticides, and cut into smaller pieces so your pet can consume them easily. Be mindful not to leave any seeds intact as these could present a choking risk.
Grapes
Bananas may be loved by guinea pigs, but due to their high sugar content they should only be fed occasionally – perhaps twice every week at most. Apples on the other hand provide fiber, potassium and much-needed vitamins C that guinea pigs cannot produce themselves.
But guinea pigs must avoid eating apple seeds as this poses a choking hazard to them and the peel can cause constipation. Other sources of vitamin C are strawberries, kale and other leafy greens – although you could offer tomatoes that are low-sugar!
Guava
Guava fruit can make an excellent treat for guinea pigs as it contains Vitamin C – an essential nutrient needed to prevent scurvy as well as strengthen their immune systems and eye sight.
Guinea pigs can enjoy a small slice of cooked guava; however, it should only be given occasionally due to its high sugar content.
Please ensure you remove the seeds as they can present a serious choking hazard for guinea pigs. Guinea pigs should only receive one piece of guava every week as part of a balanced diet.
Kiwi
Guinea pigs enjoy snacking on fresh fruits and vegetables as treats, as these foods contain vital vitamins and minerals essential to their wellbeing. Their bodies cannot produce these vitamins on their own; thus, hay, fruit, or vegetables must provide these essential sources.
Your guinea pig should also enjoy eating foods rich in potassium and vitamin C such as strawberries, oranges, kiwis, dark leafy greens such as kale as well as dark leafy vegetables like asparagus. Just ensure to always wash any fruit prior to feeding it to them to remove seeds (they pose a choking hazard and contain cyanide), though apple cores are okay too!
Mango
Guinea pigs require an abundance of fruits and vegetables in their diet to provide essential vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin C for overall health and fighting off diseases, internal organ function and connective tissue health.
However, as many fruits and veggies contain high sugar content which could contribute to obesity in guinea pigs, only small doses should be given as treats.
When feeding guinea pigs fruit, be sure to thoroughly wash and remove the seeds first, as they could pose a potential choking hazard for them. A whole banana may be too much for their digestive systems to handle and may lead to health issues like diarrhea.
