Guinea pigs are herbivores (though their digestive system physiology isn’t as well understood as in rabbits). As early as birth, they develop food preferences which they often resist changes to. Any changes should be introduced gradually for maximum success.
Guinea pigs require plenty of fresh vegetables rich in Vitamin C. Guinea pigs also enjoy eating fruit occasionally; however, its sugar-rich content should only be provided on occasion.
Contents
Lettuce
Guinea pigs require a balanced diet comprised of commercial pellets, ample hay and fresh fruits and vegetables like romaine lettuce, carrot tops (leaves/greens), alfalfa cubes, spinach, kale cabbage sweet peppers.
Carrots are an excellent vegetable to feed to guinea pigs, but should only be given in moderation as each 100g contains 4.7mg of sugar – too much can lead to diarrhoea and health issues for your pet!
Carrots
Guinea pigs enjoy fresh vegetables and fruit as a supplement to their diet, but it’s essential to use portion control when feeding them fruits and veggies.
Guinea Pig diet should consist of unlimited timothy hay and small quantities of pellets with vitamin C-fortified fresh vegetables; canned veggies contain too much sugar and do not fit their eating patterns well.
Fruits that can benefit guinea pigs include kiwi, strawberries and citrus; however, due to their high sugar content these should only be offered occasionally.
Broccoli
Guinea pigs do not produce their own vitamin C, making it essential to incorporate fresh veggies high in this nutrient into daily feedings. Green or red sweet peppers, parsley, romaine lettuce, spinach and kale are excellent choices.
Goal should be to provide 1/2 to 1 cup of veggies per guinea pig per day. Visit local farmer’s markets or CSAs for affordable produce; growing your own vegetables on windowsill is another affordable solution – mint, rosemary, tarragon and basil can also be safely grown on windowsills.
Green Beans
Guinea pigs love eating fresh veggies and fruits as treats or supplements to their pellet-based diet, but as herbivores it is important to only give them in moderation.
Guinea pigs require a diet consisting of high-fiber timothy hay, pellets and fresh vegetables such as leafy greens like romaine lettuce, dandelion and mustard greens, carrot tops, cilantro, cabbage, kale and parsley for proper nourishment. Other delicious choices may include red and green peppers, zucchini and sweet potatoes.
Spinach
As its name implies, this leafy green is an excellent source of vitamins C and A. Additionally, it’s low in calcium and oxalates while boasting plenty of iron, magnesium, and phosphorus content.
Guinea pigs cannot produce Vitamin C on their own, so it’s crucial that they consume plenty of fresh fruit and veggies containing this nutrient in their daily diets – aim to include at least a cup of vegetables per 2 pounds of bodyweight for best results.
Tomatoes
Guinea pigs require plenty of vitamin C for optimal health, which can be found in foods like kale and spinach.
Your guinea pig’s diet should primarily consist of fresh leafy vegetables and herbs, including daily offerings of different options to keep things interesting for them and ensure any uneaten food doesn’t spoil.
Each guinea pig should receive at least a teacup of vegetables daily, divided between morning and evening feedings. Any new vegetables or herbs introduced slowly to prevent an upset tummy.
Potatoes
While guinea pigs do enjoy eating vegetables, fruits and herbs too – it is important to limit how often these items are given as they can lead to digestive issues in guinea pigs.
Guinea pigs should be fed a diet consisting of hay, pellets and supplements in addition to fresh vegetables and fruit. Chocolate, cookies or crackers from human sources should never be given, as this could increase their chances of enterotoxaemia – fruit should only be offered once or twice every week as these treats could contribute to enterotoxaemia and be fatal –
Eggplant
Guinea pigs are herbivorous animals that require plenty of fiber in their diet for proper digestive health and to keep their teeth moving without suffering serious dental problems. Their favorite sources include leafy greens like spring greens and kale, root veggies such as celeriac, stalk vegetables like celery and fennel as well as many fruits such as apples.
Other nutritious vegetables to include as treats include green or red sweet peppers, parsley and romaine butterhead lettuce. Fruit can also make for tasty treats but should only be offered in small amounts as its sugar content may cause adverse health reactions.
