Guinea pigs need plenty of Vitamin C, but not from banana peppers as these can be too spicy and cause stomach ache, diarrhea and loss of appetite.
Guinea Pigs should receive fresh timothy or orchard hay as their daily diet, along with clean water that has been changed regularly. Any excess sugar may lead to diabetes or weight gain that ultimately contributes to hearth issues.
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Vitamin C
Guinea Pigs rely heavily on vegetable-based sources of Vitamin C in their diets as they cannot synthesize it themselves. Vitamin C plays an essential role in collagen formation – an essential structural protein found throughout their bodies – as well as immune system function, helping prevent and treat respiratory infections.
Guinea pigs should be given leafy greens on a regular basis as these contain high amounts of vitamin C. Mustard greens, for instance, provide ample amounts but should only be fed in moderation due to high calcium and phosphorus content. Turnip greens may also provide beneficial nutrition although their calcium content makes it wiser only to give it occasionally.
Fruit is an excellent source of vitamin C. However, excessive consumption can lead to weight gain, acidity and sore mouths if consumed in excess. A weekly serving of fresh strawberries, bananas and oranges should suffice.
Potassium
Guinea pigs require plenty of potassium in order to ensure that their hearts, kidneys and lungs function optimally as well as to strengthen bones and keep muscles functioning correctly.
Bananas are an excellent source of potassium, with as much as 3.6mg per gram. Unfortunately, however, they contain an excessive amount of sugar – so any bananas fed to your pet should be strictly monitored in terms of its intake.
Banana peels should only be fed occasionally to your pet guinea pig as a source of Vitamin C, yet their stringy texture could present a potential choking risk. Furthermore, non-organic bananas could contain pesticides which could pose potential health concerns to their wellbeing.
Your guinea pig deserves only the healthiest diet possible, such as Timothy Hay and leafy green vegetables that are low in calcium and oxalates (such as endive and Swiss chard). Our friends at Purina provide Vita Prima diet which provides all of these vital vitamins, minerals, and nutrients required for optimal health in one easy package!
Calcium
An optimal diet for your guinea pig is crucial. Vitamin C, calcium, and phosphorus are essential in maintaining optimal health for their wellbeing. You can supplement their diet with fruits and vegetables in small amounts; but beware: some fruit contain too much sugar while vegetables contain oxalates which could cause diarrhea in some instances.
Guinea pigs should have access to unlimited Timothy hay each day for optimal digestion and to reduce tooth growth. Furthermore, fresh greens such as romaine lettuce, red and green leafy vegetables, parsley and cilantro should form an integral part of their daily diet – and leafy greens should make up most of this!
Bananas are rich in Vitamin C and should form part of your guinea pig’s daily diet. However, avoid store-bought banana juice as this could contain harmful sugar and ingredients which are harmful for their wellbeing.
Fiber
Guinea pigs need an ample supply of Vitamin C in their diet in order to remain healthy and avoid infection, whether this comes in the form of food, supplements or fruits and vegetables rich in this nutrient. Furthermore, fiber aids digestion. If your guinea pig appears bloated or refuses food or has diarrhea symptoms they could possibly be deficient in Vitamin C and should be seen by a veterinarian immediately.
Oranges, tangerines and bananas are excellent sources of Vitamin C for guinea pigs. Make sure that all peels and seeds have been removed before feeding these treats to your guinea pig to avoid obesity – excess body weight can lead to heart disease, diabetes and other serious health conditions in guinea pigs. You should also refrain from giving store-made banana drinks to your pet.
