Feeding advice for Guinea Pigs

Guinea Pigs are also herbivores, just like rabbits, meaning they eat plans and plant-based food. Fibrous food are great for guinea pigs to keep their teeth short and their guts health. Additionally, it is also important for guinea pigs to have Vitamin C as part of their diets as they are unable to produce it themselves.

Here is the recommended diet plan for a guinea pig to ensure it minimise their natural diet as closely as possible:

• Hay and grass: Like rabbits this should be at least 85-90% of their daily diet
• Fresh greens and vegetable: these are high in vitamin C so are especially good for guinea pigs. They need about a teacup amount per day.
• Pellets: a tablespoon of grass-based pellets a day
• Water: should be readily accessible

What fresh greens and vegetables are safe for my guinea pig?

These are important for a guinea pigs diet to help them get enough vitamin C in their diet. It is generally recommended for one teacup of greens and veg for each guinea pig per day and try to provide 5 or 6 different items. It is important not to provide to many greens and vegetables to minimise the chance of an upset tummy.

Safe vegetables

• Bell peppers
• Beetroot
• Carrot tops
• Cauliflower
• Celery leaves
• Collard greens
• Courgette
• Green beans
• Lettuces (not iceberg)
• Pansips
• Peas
• Rocket
• Savoy cabbage
• Spring greens
• Tomato
• Watercress
• Herbs: Basil, Coriander, Dill, Mint, Oregano, Rosemary, Sage, Thyme

Vegetables that are safe but should be fed in moderation:

• Aspargus
• Broccoli
• Brussel sprouts
• Cabbage
• Cucumber
• Kate
• Parsley
• Red cabbage
• Romaine lettuce
• Spinach

Pellets

Grass based pellets are ideal for our guinea pigs and can be given one tablespoon a day. They are good to prevent dental disease. Muesli diets like rabbits should be provided to prevent selective feeding and obesity as they will tend to choose the higher sugar components.

Treats

Fresh fruit is the preferred option if you want to treat your guinea pig rather than shop brought pets.

Safe fruit:

• Apple
• Banana
• Blueberry
• Carrot
• Cherry
• Kiwi
• Melon
• Pear
• Plum
• Squash
• Strawberry