Discover the expert in you.
Discover the expert in you.
A properly balanced guinea pig diet is made up of a combination of hay, pellets, fruits and vegetables. The proper combination of these foods provides guinea pigs the balance of nutrition that they need for healthy development and reproduction.
Guinea pigs, like humans, are unable to produce their own vitamin C. For that reason, they need extra vitamin C in their diet to ensure they do not fall ill. Guinea pigs with low levels of vitamin C will be at risk for a number of illnesses, including respiratory ailments. Vitamin C can be provided through their pellet food, but because vitamin C deteriorates rapidly, it should also be provided with fresh fruits and vegetables and may also be supplemented with tablets.
A guinea pig, also known as a cavy, is a strict herbivore. This means it eats only grass, plants and products made from grass and plants. A cavy is not a fussy eater but does require a variety of foods to obtain vitamins, minerals and other essential nutrients. Also, because a guinea pig does not store up food like many other rodents, it is necessary for it to eat frequently. A pet cavy should be fed every morning and night, in addition to having a constant supply of grass or hay on which to graze. A balanced diet of fruits,…
Learn from an exotic animal health technician and learn tips on feeding a pet guinea pig, as well as facts about the proper guinea pig diet, in this free online video.
Guinea pigs, sometimes called cavies, make great pets. They are affectionate, cute, and fairly easy to care for in captivity. They do have some distinct nutritional requirements, however, and failing to feed your guinea pig the right food will cause him to get sick. Guinea pigs who are not fed correctly can even die. Unfortunately, the commercial guinea pig pellets are not a sufficient diet for these cuddly pets. Here are some tips to help you choose the right food for your guinea pigs.
Guinea pigs are also known as cavies. They are vegetarians, and need a constant supply of grass and hay to graze and chew on. Constant chewing and grazing not only provides nutritional benefits for guinea pigs, but helps keep their molars low. Guinea pigs are not able to produce Vitamin C on their own, so they need to be fed a diet rich in Vitamin C. Supplements are not necessary if they are provided a varied diet, which includes guinea pig pellets. Pellets contain the Vitamin C that they require.
