What Kind of Food Does a Guinea Pig Eat?

Before buying a guinea pig, it is important to understand how to care for it. The most important element in caring for your guinea pig is feeding it the correct diet, along with offering fresh water continuously. There are several requirements to give your guinea pig a balanced, nutritious diet.

Foods

Your guinea pig needs Timothy hay, pellets and fresh vegetables.

Frequency of Feedings

Guinea pigs always need food in their stomach to avoid gastric bloat, a life-threatening condition. Pellets and Timothy hay should be available for your guinea pig at all times. Fresh vegetables should be offered once daily. Remove any uneaten portions after two or three hours, to prevent spoilage.

Where to Buy Feed

Timothy hay and pellets are available at pet stores. Pellets should be just for guinea pigs and a uniform green to ensure consistent quality. Timothy hay can also be purchased in bales from feed stores and farmers. It is important to store excess hay where it will remain dry, to prevent moisture from rotting it.

Vitamin C

Guinea pigs require vitamin C, but don't produce it themselves. You must add vitamin C into the diet through supplements, vegetables high in vitamin C--such as asparagus, Brussels sprouts, beet greens, broccoli and cabbage--or in fortified pellets.

Warning

Don't feed your guinea pig seeds or celery due to the risk of choking. Broccoli should be given only in small quantities because it may cause diarrhea.

References

• At Home Pets
• Guinea Pig Rescue
• What do guinea pigs eat?