Wild guinea pigs (cavies) are grazing herbivores that eat mostly grasses, along with leaves, herbs, flowers and other plant material. Pet guinea pigs have the same needs: constant fiber from grass hay, plus a small amount of fresh greens and vitamin C.
The Wild Diet
Wild cavies live in South America, in grasslands and scrubby areas, and they spend much of the day grazing. Their diet is mainly grasses, with leaves, stems and other plants added in. They do not eat meat, dairy or processed food, and fruit is not a big part of what they find.
What This Means for Pet Guinea Pigs
Because their teeth grow continuously and their gut needs constant fiber, pet guinea pigs should have unlimited grass hay at all times. Timothy hay is the standard choice; orchard and meadow hay are good variety. Learn more in our hay guide.
Recreating a Natural Diet at Home
- Hay: unlimited, always fresh.
- Leafy greens: about a cup a day, such as romaine, cilantro, and green or red leaf lettuce.
- Pellets: a small portion of plain timothy-based pellets with added vitamin C.
- Vitamin C: guinea pigs cannot make it, so bell peppers and fortified pellets matter.
- Fresh grass: good in moderation if it is untreated. See feeding grass safely.
Wild Plants: Use Caution
Dandelion leaves, plantain and clover are commonly offered as treats, but only pick them from places that have never been sprayed with pesticides or visited by pets, and identify every plant with certainty. If unsure, skip it. Do not pick plants from roadsides or treated lawns.
Foods Wild Guinea Pigs Would Never Eat
Bread, crackers, dairy, meat, chocolate, nuts and candy are not part of any natural diet and can make pets ill. See foods to never feed.
Bottom Line
Think grass first. Unlimited hay, a daily helping of fresh greens and a vitamin C source come closest to what guinea pigs are built to eat. For a full feeding plan, read the best food for guinea pigs.
This article is for general information and does not replace veterinary advice.
