Feeding Guinea Pigs | VCA Animal Hospitals

Hey There, Guinea Pig Lovers!

Alright, let's talk about our fluffy little companions, the guinea pigs. You know, those adorable, rodent-y guys that make you go "awwww" every time you look at them. But hold up, there's more to these critters than just being cute. We need to talk about their diet, specifically. And no, it's not just a bowl of pellets and some lettuce. We're diving deeper into the ins and outs of keeping your guinea pig happy and healthy.

The Guinea Pig Diet: A Quick Recap

Guinea pigs, like rabbits, are herbivores. That means their stomachs are designed to handle a plant-based diet. But here's the kicker – they're super picky about it. They develop food preferences early on and don't take kindly to changes. So, if you're thinking of switching their food, just take it slow. You don't want to end up with a hungry, grumpy guinea pig on your hands.

The Key Player: Vitamin C

Now, this is a big deal. Guinea pigs can't make their own vitamin C, just like us primates. And guess what? If they don't get enough, they can develop scurvy. Yes, you read that right – scurvy. So, they need to eat food rich in vitamin C. Lucky for us, we can find it in their pellets and fresh veggies.

Hay, Hay, Hay

Here's another must-have in their diet: hay. It's like their daily workout, keeping their teeth worn down and their digestive system happy. Plus, it's loaded with fiber, which is super important for these little guys. Timothy hay is the go-to choice, but any low-calcium hay will do.

Pellets and Produce

Alright, now let's talk about the rest of the diet. You'll want to offer your guinea pig a mix of high-fiber pellets and fresh, well-washed veggies. Think leafy greens like romaine lettuce, kale, spinach, and broccoli. Just avoid giving them too much fruit, as it's high in sugar and can cause tummy trouble.

Water, Water, Everywhere

And don't forget about the water! Fresh, clean water should be available at all times. A sipper bottle is usually the way to go, as it's less likely to get dirty than a bowl. Just make sure to clean it daily and check for any obstructions.

Vitamin C: The Daily Dose

Back to that all-important vitamin C. Guinea pigs need about 10-50 mg per day, depending on their age and health. You can find vitamin C in their pellets, but it's not as stable as fresh produce. So, it's best to give them a vitamin C tablet or liquid every day. Just don't mix it in their water, as it breaks down quickly.

A Healthy Guinea Pig: A Happy Guinea Pig

In summary, a balanced diet of hay, pellets, and fresh veggies, along with a daily dose of vitamin C, will keep your guinea pig healthy and happy. And remember, it's always a good idea to consult with your vet to make sure you're meeting their specific dietary needs.

So, What's the Deal with That One Veggie?

I know you're probably wondering about that one veggie you're not sure about. Just drop me a comment below, and I'll be more than happy to give you the scoop on whether it's safe for your guinea pig or not.

Stay Tuned for More

And that's it for today's guinea pig diet rundown. Stay tuned for more tips and tricks to keep your fluffy friend healthy and happy. Until next time, keep those guinea pigs well-fed and loved!