Guinea pigs are herbivores, so they require a balanced diet with plenty of fresh produce like fruit and vegetables. Furthermore, they need enough roughage to chew on to prevent dental issues.
Provide your guinea pigs with fresh fruits and vegetables at least a couple of times each week. You can mix these in with their regular pelleted food for a more varied diet.
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Mango
Mangoes are a favorite fruit among guinea pigs. Not only do these nutritious fruits provide plenty of calories, but they’re also packed with fiber and antioxidants.
They are a type of drupe or stone fruit, featuring a fleshy outer part surrounding a pit or stone with the seed in the center. Commonly found in tropical countries, these fruits serve as staple food for both wild and domesticated animals alike.
Mangoes can be eaten by Guinea pigs, but only in moderation and not as a staple in their diet. Overfeeding this high-calorie fruit may lead to diarrhea, weight gain, and other health issues.
Guinea pigs require vitamin C in their diet to boost their immune system and combat diseases. Unfortunately, they often don’t get enough of this essential nutrient when fed only hay and vegetables.
Starfruit
Star fruit, commonly referred to as carambola, is an ideal food choice for your guinea pig. This exotic fruit boasts numerous nutrients and is high in fiber content.
Guinea pigs can enjoy a small slice of this fruit once or twice a week, depending on their size. Be sure to remove any seeds before giving your guinea pig this treat as they may suffer from choking hazards.
This Asian-based fruit is packed with dietary fiber, which aids digestion and nutrient absorption. Furthermore, it provides a good source of Vitamin C, potassium, and phytonutrients.
Star fruit also contains magnesium, a sleep-promoting mineral that can reduce irritability and promote restful sleep. Furthermore, it’s an excellent source of calcium and phosphorus.
It is essential to be mindful that star fruit contains high levels of sugar, so it should be consumed in moderation. Eating too much can lead to weight gain, diarrhea and other health complications.
Cucumbers
Cucumbers are a favorite treat for many guinea pigs. Not only are they refreshing and crunchy, but they’re packed with Vitamin C and water to keep your furry friend hydrated on hot summer days.
Guinea pigs can safely consume the peel, flesh and seeds of cucumbers without harm. Be sure to rinse these vegetables thoroughly before feeding them.
Cucumbers contain pesticide residue, and even trace amounts can be toxic for guinea pigs with sensitive stomachs. Therefore, it’s best to purchase organic cucumbers and wash them before giving them to your guinea pig.
Cucumbers make for a nutritious addition to any guinea pig’s diet when combined with other snacks that contain low levels of potassium. They also provide plenty of Vitamin C, which may benefit your pet’s immune system as well as bone health.
Tomatoes
Tomatoes make for a nutritious addition to guinea pigs’ diets. Not only do they provide essential vitamins and nutrients like fiber and potassium, but they’re also high in carbohydrates for energy production.
Guinea pigs can benefit from the heart-healthy compounds in tomatoes, such as lycopene and beta-carotene. These compounds may reduce your guinea pig’s risk for stroke or other heart-related issues.
However, you should only feed your guinea pig cherry tomatoes two or three times per week in moderation. Overconsumption of the fruit can lead to digestive upset and mouth sores.
When offering tomatoes to your guinea pigs, be sure they’re fully ripe. Green tomato leaves and stems can be toxic to guinea pigs; thus, only offer them the flesh of the fruit.
