Guinea pigs can eat papaya, but in moderation! Just like with most fruits, papaya has lots of sugar, so it’s important to make sure that you feed it to them in smaller amounts. There are several benefits and drawbacks to consider before you decide to include it into your guinea pig’s diet!
We've also got a Fruit Master List that lists common fruits that your piggy can and can't eat!
What vitamins and other nutrients does papaya contain?
Vitamin C
This plays a role in your guinea pig’s healing when it comes to things like skin injuries whether they’re minor skin wounds, or deeper wounds from things like fungal infections. It’s also a vitamin that is needed for their immune system in order to help prevent them from catching infections that can be life-threatening if not caught and treated quickly enough!
It’s also vital for the formation of collagen, cartilage, and muscle. Cartilage is an important part of your guinea pig’s bones that make it possible for them to move comfortably and without pain. There is 60.9 mg in 100 g of papaya.
Calcium
Important for the formation of bones and their maintenance! Calcium is something that is necessary in the guinea pig diet, however it’s important to note that too much can also be harmful. It can lead to complications in the urinary tract, so it’s important to feed foods high in calcium in moderation to avoid any issues that can quickly become uncomfortable in the best case, and fatal in the worst.
It helps keep your piggies strong, keeps their heart, muscles, and nerves functioning. The amount that guinea pigs need will depend on their age, sex, and overall health condition. Make sure to consult your veterinarian before you make any major changes in your guinea pig’s diet. There is 20 mg in 100 g of papaya.
Phosphorus
This plays a big role in how the body properly uses carbohydrates for fuel, as well as fats! Guinea pigs need energy in order to do, well, everything! It’s important that your guinea pigs are fueled in order to stay active and healthy throughout their lives, whether they’re young or older! It’s also necessary for making proteins for growth, maintenance, and repair of cells and tissues. There is 10 mg in 100 g.
What other benefits does papaya provide for your guinea pig?
Papaya contains vitamin A, which is good for removing toxins from the body and protecting your guinea pig’s cells from free radical damage. This damage can lead to premature aging and the development of diseases. Papaya also contains lots of fiber, which is good for maintaining regular and balanced digestion.
What are the downsides about papaya for guinea pigs?
While there are many benefits, there are also a few drawbacks about papaya! For example, eating too much papaya can lead to some urinary complications because of the calcium content. While some calcium is necessary for your guinea pig’s body to function properly, too much can lead to bladder and kidney stone development, especially when guinea pigs get older.
It’s also important to note that while fiber is good for a balanced digestive system, too much (along with too much sugar) can lead to some complications like constipation. And with the excess sugar content can come some weight gain, which is why we need to be careful about how much we give them!
Guinea pigs can eat papaya, but do they like it?
Yes! It’s a sweet and tasty treat for them.
How should you go about feeding your guinea pig papaya?
Because of the listed downsides, it’s best to limit the amount of this fruit that you give to your guinea pig! The safest way to include it in their diet would be to give them two to three, one square-inch chunks twice a week at most!
Make sure to remove the seeds and thoroughly wash the outside if you’re planning on feeding the skin to them as well.
Overall, it is OK to feed your guinea pigs papaya!
As with all fruits and vegetables, feeding them in moderation is the best way to keep their diet balanced and nutritious to keep them happy and healthy as possible.
What else can guinea pigs eat?
Check out our Fruit Master List for quick facts on common fruits that your guinea pig can and can't eat.
