Guinea pigs are herbivorous, which means they primarily rely on plants as their main source of nutrition. Therefore, it’s essential to know which plants are safe for these little critters to consume.
Some plants appear very similar, making it easy to confuse safe varieties with poisonous ones. Here is a list of some common poisonous plants for guinea pigs:
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Catnip
Guinea pigs are herbivores and will naturally seek out plants, flowers and weeds for food. Unfortunately, some plants can be toxic to guinea pigs; therefore they should never be consumed without being thoroughly tested for safety.
Catnip, also known as Nepeta cataria, is an herbaceous plant native to Europe, Asia and the Middle East that attracts cats with its aroma. When stimulated, these felines will sniff, lick, chew, shake their heads, roll around or even drool from this stimulant.
However, it is vitally important for guinea pigs to be aware that catnip is toxic and will cause stomach pains, diarrhea, nausea, fatigue and digestive issues if consumed. If you observe any of these signs after your pet consumes catnip, contact a vet immediately.
Cleome
Cleome, a species in the family of Clemacaeae (spider flower), is an annual that spreads quickly and produces blooms from summer until frost. Depending on its cultivar, it may reach heights of 6 feet or more.
Many modern varieties are dwarf and ideal for containers or compact gardens. Unfortunately, their foliage can have an unpleasant odor and sticky feel due to glandular hairs present.
It can withstand drought conditions without needing staking, though mature stems may prickle if not handled carefully.
Research has demonstrated the plant to possess anti-ulcer activity. In a pyloric ligation model, this plant significantly decreased gastric secretion volume, free acidity and total acidity levels.
This makes this plant an excellent addition to any garden, as it requires minimal care, seeds readily and can be enjoyed for years by those who keep it in their beds. Furthermore, this flower has an excellent fall-blooming period with dried flower heads adding texture to a fall garden arrangement.
Wormwood
Wormwood, also known as Artemisia absinthium or wormwood, is an annual herb with a flowering stem and leaves. It can be used in medicine to aid digestion and expel worms.
Traditional uses for this remedy include eliminating intestinal worms such as pinworms, roundworms and tapeworms from the body; plus it has anti-inflammatory and immune benefits which may make it beneficial in certain circumstances.
Though generally safe to consume, high doses of this supplement can be toxic if taken. Therefore, pregnant or nursing women should avoid consuming it due to thujone content which has the potential for harming the uterus and baby.
It can also be toxic to other animals, including guinea pigs. It has the potential to cause liver damage and other health complications.
King County is home to absinth wormwood, which can be found in overgrazed pasture and rangeland, waste areas, fence rows and roadsides. This pest can outcompete desirable grasses and plants in these disturbed areas, decreasing biodiversity and forage quality.
Ivy
Guiness pigs are herbivores and require a diet of plants. Unfortunately, not all plants are safe to eat – some are highly toxic.
Guinea pigs should never be allowed to consume any plant, flower or weed that hasn’t been thoroughly tested for safety. There are many toxic wild and garden plants, trees, shrubs and flowers which should be avoided at all costs.
It is essential to remember that some plants may look different depending on the season, so always double-check before feeding your guinea pigs anything. Furthermore, avoid foraging in areas where dogs frequently visit or in areas treated with pesticides; doing this will guarantee both of you have a healthy and secure foraging experience.
