A large part of a guinea pig’s diet is hay, but hay is not rich in vitamins and healthy minerals. Guinea pigs can't produce vitamins on their own, so supplementing it in the form of fresh fruits and vegetables is essential. Piggies require at least 10 mg of vitamin C per day. Guinea pigs do not usually overeat, but because fruit has high sugar content, they could easily consume too many calories which leads to weight gain.
Weight gain can cause various problems like diabetes and stress on the internal organs. Also, be sure to always wash your fruit to make sure you don't feed your piggie any pesticides. Choosing the right foods is a crucial and decisive factor in the health of guinea pigs. Therefore it is important to know all about the food before providing it to our wonderful piggies.
1. Kiwi
Kiwis contain high levels of vitamin C and even small quantities of kiwi can be a massive boost for their vitamin needs. Like with any other fruit, it should be fed in low amounts because of its high sugar content. It also contains a good amount of Potassium to prevent bladder stones and fiber to help with digestion. Remember to remove the skin before dicing and serving it to them.
2. Banana
Bananas are rich in fiber, vitamin A, vitamin B-6, and vitamin C so it is very beneficial to your guinea pigs health. Vitamin B-6 maintains your guinea pig's fur by keeping it smooth and soft. Without it, they may suffer from skin rashes. Bananas do have a high sugar content (over 10%), so make sure to provide only small portions occasionally.
3. Blueberry
Blueberries contain antioxidants and vitamins, which makes them a great choice for guinea pigs. But at the same time, blueberries are acidic and contain a lot of sugar. Feed only small amounts occasionally. Blueberries may not be suitable for all guinea pigs because some guinea pigs are more prone to getting mouth sores. Test the food by feeding them in small amounts first then gradually increase the intake.
4. Watermelon
Guinea pigs can consume watermelon, but it should not be a major part of their diet. You can feed your guinea pigs in small quantities once a week. Flesh or peel are both fine, but be sure to remove all the seeds before giving watermelon to them. About 2 inches of the should be enough per guinea pig per day. Keep in mind that your guinea pig may not like the taste of watermelon or may not want to eat it. If so, why not try other fruits such as bananas, blueberries or cantaloupes?
5. Cantaloupe
The reason you might consider adding this fruit to your furry pet's diet is that it's rich in vitamin C. Remember to keep it fresh and provide only low servings. Little cubes of cantaloupes are enough for one guinea pig. Feed them no more than two servings per week because it contains a lot of sugar! And remember to remove all seeds. Guinea pigs are small and have small throats so cantaloupe seeds may be a choking hazard.
6. Apple
Apple peel contains fiber, which is good for your guinea pig's digestion. Apple leaves also contain calcium, which is an essential mineral for guinea pigs. If you have an apple tree in your yard, you can try putting a whole branch(after washing) into their cage. They will eat the leaves and the wood will help trim their teeth.
So why not treat your guinea pig to some fruits occasionally? Fruits are high in all the vitamins and minerals that your guinea pig needs to live a healthy life. The rule of thumb is to limit their fruit intake as to not give them too much sugar. They will love you for it!
Make veggie and fruit eating sessions comfortable and easy to clean with our GuineaDad Liners! It soaks up all the liquids that you want to keep off your floors.
Guinea pigs have a very sensitive digestive system, so its important we learn what foods are safe for them. Want to know learn more about what foods your guinea pigs can or can't eat? Read our guinea pig food blogs:
Can Guinea Pigs Eat Strawberries?
Can Guinea Pigs Eat Blueberries?
12 comments
Thank you for your help
Yes is there any surgar free fruits that my ginny pigs could eat