Favorite Foods For A GUINEA PIG

Feeding a guinea pig it's favorite foods is a fun part of being a guinea pig owner. There is a wide variety of vegetables that may qualify as favorites. The fun part is in discovering what foods are most appealing to the guinea pig. Regularly add vitamin C powder to food, treats, or water for optimum guinea pig health. Some owners do not recommend pellets. 

 Food pellets are somewhat boring and my discourage a guinea pig from eating. However, most veterinarians recommend at least a quarter cup of pellets daily and three servings of vegetables. Variety adds spice as much to a pet owner's life as it does to the pet. A variety of foods maintains interest and helps discover food favorites.

A cat which has learned to accept two guinea pigs. Some cats and dogs, depending entirely on the individual animal, may be able to safely interact with guinea pigs. However, leaving cats or dogs alone with guinea pigs is never advised.
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Carrots:

Carrots are good for guinea pigs for two reasons.  One reason is that carrots help keep the front teeth trimmed.   Carrots make wonderful chew toys.  The other reason is that carrots provide important vitamins and nutrients.  Carrots are also rich in vitamin C and are very, very good for a guinea pig.  As much as guinea pigs love carrots, limit the joy to once or twice a week.  Too much carrot munching can cause diarrhea and an overdose of vitamin A.   When feeding, carrots feed a large carrot or one or two baby carrots.  Feed carrot tops and ends to guinea pigs.  Carrots are at the top of the list of a favorite food for a guinea pig. 

Leafy Greens:

Leafy greens are also very high in vitamin C.  Endive, dandelion stems, and kale are great choices.  Providing leafy green vegetables enriches and provides a wider variety in the diet.  Wash thoroughly to remove any residual chemicals.  Mustard greens and spinach are too high in potassium and are not healthy choices for a guinea pig. Lettuce is very high in water and can be a cool treat on a hot day for a pet guinea pig.  Greens are also high in fiber and will assist in the digestive process.  Some greens may be disagreeable, watch eating habits to assure favored feeds are being eaten.  Observe which greens are the most satisfying and pleasing to the pet.  Generally, any vegetable is a good, healthy choice for a guinea pig. 

These additions to a guinea pig's diet keep a variety in the pet's diet.  Variety increases interest and keeps the pet healthy.  Guinea pigs are a delight and it is always fun to watch them get excited about their eating habits.  Orange slices can be fed sometimes, but can cause mouth sores if fed too often.  For the most part avoid fruits.  A guinea pig diet high in fruits can cause bladder problems.  Feed those foods most often that the guinea pig seems to have a real affinity for eating.  Feed raw vegetables over cooked or processed ones as these are lower in nutritional value.  Guinea pigs also love hay.  Provide an unlimited source of hay, which often means replenishing a supply four or five times daily.  

---

---