Guinea pigs cannot produce vitamin C on their own, so it is crucial that they receive plenty of vitamin-C-rich foods each day alongside their hay and pellets.
Vegetables like spring greens, kale, carrots and celeriac can make for nutritious meal options; leafy herbs such as parsley can also provide great texture. Fruit may be fed occasionally as an extra treat.
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Tomatoes
Tomatoes are low-sugar treats that offer guinea pigs an invigorating dose of Vitamin C, while also serving to keep their teeth from overgrowing by forcing them to exert themselves while biting them.
Tomatoes contain low levels of calcium, making them ideal for guinea pigs that are susceptible to bladder stones or sludge build-up. Just remember to feed in moderation as tomatoes contain high phosphorus content.
Fruits like satsumas, tangerines or peaches should only be offered once or twice weekly as their high sugar content could lead to obesity issues in your guinea pigs.
Carrots
Carrots are an excellent source of potassium and vitamin C. In addition, they’re an excellent source of fiber. Guinea pigs require extra vitamin C to prevent scurvy from setting in, since their bodies cannot produce this substance themselves.
Sugary treats should only be enjoyed in moderation to avoid gastrointestinal upset such as gas and bloating.
Guinea Pigs can enjoy eating apples (without seeds), oranges, bananas, tomatoes, kiwis, mangos and melons; these should only be given occasionally to avoid stomach issues.
Apples
Technically a fruit, yet often classified as vegetables, tomatoes are an excellent source of Vitamin C and other beneficial phytochemicals, including polyphenol antioxidants and quercetin.
As a general guideline, any type of fruit should only ever be fed in moderation to your guinea pig and should never replace hay which must always be available.
Fresh veggies are an integral component of animal care, and should be offered at least once every day (two cups for every guinea pig). Rocket salad leaves can make great treats; or try growing herbs such as mint on your windowsill!
Pears
Pears provide an excellent source of vitamin C that guinea pigs require; however, as with most fruits they contain high levels of sugar and should only be offered occasionally as treats.
Calcium and phosphorous are both found abundantly in nuts. Both minerals play an essential role in bone development and nerve functioning as well as muscle movement and energy storage.
Prior to feeding them to your guinea pig, ensure all fruits and veggies have been washed to remove any possible pesticides or chemicals that may contain. Leafy greens with high amounts of vitamin C should make up most of their diet.
Bananas
Guinea pigs should consume green vegetables that provide fiber, vitamins and moisture – such as romaine lettuces with red or green leaves; mustard or turnip greens; cabbage; kale; and cilantro are high sources of Vitamin C that should be included daily as part of their diet.
However, it’s essential that you switch up the vegetables you feed your cat so they don’t become bored with their diet and develop health issues such as constipation, bloating or abdominal pain. Potassium found in bananas helps promote healthy blood flow while minimizing muscle cramping.
Mangoes
Guinea pigs cannot produce their own vitamin C, so they require being provided with adequate quantities in their diet to stay happy and healthy. Achieve optimal immune health, bone formation, growth and prevent scurvy are just a few benefits from taking in enough of this vital nutrient!
Mango can be enjoyed by guinea pigs, though its skin should be removed due to its rough texture and potential pesticide residues that could potentially pose a choking hazard.
Provide your guinea pigs with a wide variety of vegetables to ensure they receive all of the essential vitamins and minerals. They’ll appreciate treats like dandelion leaves, watercress, mint and rocket salad!
Melon
Honeydew melons, although technically classified as fruits, are safe for guinea pigs to consume in moderation. Their high water content helps guinea pigs stay hydrated, and it contains vitamin and mineral sources such as Vitamin C. However, be careful with seeds as they can pose a choking hazard to them.
Watermelons provide guinea pigs with a delicious snack option in small doses, providing essential vitamins and nutrients as part of their balanced diet. Though grass, hay, vitamin-C-enriched pellets and fresh veggies should make up most of their daily needs, offering slices of watermelon occasionally won’t do any harm.
