Guinea Pigs and Food

Guinea pigs are pure herbivores and a balanced diet for them should comprise plants only. Anything other than plants are harmful for them, and can lead to severe illnesses and even death.

Knowing what a guinea pig should eat will have them living a long and healthy life. Read along to know what to buy for your guinea pigs’ meals. 

What Type Of Grass And Hay Should Guinea Pigs Eat?

Hay is a guinea pig’s staple food, and quality hay should be available to them 24/7. Some types of hay and grasses that guinea pigs should be given are timothy hay, oat hay, grassy hay, barley, orchard grass, and Alfalfa.

Alfalfa is best for younger guinea pigs that are still developing. For older guinea pigs, the amount of calcium in Alfalfa may be too much leading to kidney and bladder stones. Therefore, older guinea pigs should be given Alfalfa in moderation.

Hay and grass are rich in calcium, which helps in the bones and dental development of your guinea pig. Hay also helps keep your guinea pigs busy as they chew on them. 

What Types Of Fruits Should Guinea Pigs Eat?

Fruits are high in sugar, and that is why they should be given in moderation to your guinea pig. Some fruits that guinea pigs can eat are mangoes, bananas, apples, pears, strawberries, and kiwi fruits. Always ensure that you remove large seeds from these, as the seeds can choke your guinea pig. 

Fruits are rich in vitamin C, which helps boost immunity and keep diseases from your Pigs. Guinea pigs do not synthesize Vitamin C and therefore need a constant supply of the vitamin. 

Lack of vitamin C can lead to joint and skin complications characterized with symptoms such as a rough coat and fur shedding. In the worst cases, it can lead to scurvy, which is a disease caused by the deficiency of Vitamin C, this lead to veterinary medical advice. 

What Type Of Vegetables Should Guinea Pigs Eat? 

Vegetables are rich in vitamin C and fiber, which are essential nutrients for your guinea pig. Fiber aids bowel movements hence reduce the chances of your guinea pig having constipation. 

Some green leafy vegetables that guinea pigs should eat are romaine lettuce, kales, spinach, broccoli, cabbage, parsley, red and green pepper, and coriander.

You can give carrots and zucchini, but in moderation for your guinea pig to chew on. Carrots and zucchini should not be given as a main meal to your guinea pig because they have little nutritional value.

Did you know guinea pigs should only eat 1 cup of vegetables per day? 

What Types Of Weeds Can Guinea Pigs Eat?

Weeds are extremely good antioxidants, that help keep diseases at bay. Not all weeds are good for your guinea pig, as some are poisonous.

Weeds that are edible and given to eat are dandelions, buttercup, chamomile, shepherd’s purse, chicken weed, oxalis, white clover, Nut grass, daisy weeds, lavender, plantain, cleavers, yarrow, and goosegrass.  

Ensure that you wash the weeds well to remove any toxic pesticides, or herbicides, that may have been sprayed on them while in the garden. Do not allow your guinea pig to go to the garden to eat from there, but pluck the weeds from the garden or farm. This is because guinea pigs may not distinguish between what is poisonous and what is not.

Note- Always ensures that room temperature water is available to your guinea pig 24/7 in clean bottles. Check for any dirt and food that may have clogged nozzles of your guinea pig’s bottle and remove them. 

Can You Give Your Guinea Pigs Pellets?

Yes. You can give guinea pigs commercial pellets, and in fact, guinea pigs love them. Pellets are usually made in such a way that all nutrients such as vitamins and minerals that your guinea pig needs are balanced in one pellet.

Most pellets are sold in pet stores and are approved by veterinary doctors

Most guinea pig pellets are expensive and therefore, you can give them as a treat. It is not a basic need, but a complement to their normal food. However, if you want to give them pellets all the time, this will not hurt them.

Five Precautions When Feeding Your Guinea Pig.

1. Ensure you wash all foods thoroughly. 

This is done to remove any toxic chemicals such as pesticides and herbicides and dirt that may be on them to avoid poisoning your guinea pig. 

2. Cut all foods into small manageable pieces for your guinea pig.

Cut all vegetables and fruits into small pieces that your guinea pig will eat without choking. 

3. Introduce new food gradually.

When introducing a portion of new food to your guinea pig, introduce it gradually as you monitor for any negative reaction. If there is any negative reaction, then stop immediately, but if there is no reaction, then you should add portions slowly allowing room for your guinea pig to adjust.

4. Remove any uneaten food from your guinea pigs cage. 

Uneaten food can easily get mold and hence get spoiled. If consumed by your guinea pig, it may lead to stomach complications. 

If your guinea pig seems full from eating, remove the uneaten food. Forcing your guinea pig to overfeed can lead to illnesses such as obesity and diabetes. 

5. Never give your guinea pig any processed or cooked food. 

Processed food is made in factories; they contain chemicals that are harmful to your guinea pig. Guinea pigs cannot digest any cooked food, therefore, never give them any food that is cooked and prepared using any form of heat. 

Other Questions

What Food Can Kill A Guinea Pig?

Knowing what a guinea pig should not eat is just as essential as knowing what it should. Some foods are poisonous and can kill your guinea pig.

Some foods that can kill a guinea pig are meat, iceberg lettuce which causes severe diarrhea, avocado which is too high in fat, tomato leaves and stems as they contain toxic tomatine, and eggs.

Never give your guinea pig any dairies such as yogurt, cheese, or milk, as they contain lactose, guinea pigs are lactose intolerant. 

Is It Okay To Have Just One Guinea Pig?

It is okay to have one guinea pig. However, it is not the best option, as you will notice your guinea pig is looking lonely and not happy. Guinea pigs are supposed to be very active and they may not be if alone.

If you plan to have one guinea pig perhaps because of finances, preference, or only room for one pig, then you should buy one who is more of an introvert. 

It is also important that you spend enough time with your one guinea pig, providing food, water, toys, and enough space for it. 

Should You Have One Or Two Guinea Pigs?

It is best to have two or more guinea pigs because guinea pigs are playful and social beings that love to interact with others 

When choosing two guinea pigs to keep, the best combination is two of same gender and in the same age bracket. They make the best companions and do not bully each other.

If you plan to keep different genders, then you should ensure that they are neutered or spayed. Introduce them gradually to each other to avoid conflicts regarding space, food, and water.