How to Feed a Guinea Pig

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.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Timothy Hay
• Guinea Pig Food Pellets
• Clean Plastic Food Bowls
• Chew Sticks
• Salt Wheel
• Fresh Fruit and Vegetables
• Grass
• Dandelions

1. 

   Provide the guinea pig with Timothy hay. The hay should be given on a constant basis, as it aids their digestion and helps keeps molars at a healthy size.

2. 

   Place guinea pig food pellets in the bowl on a daily basis, or place them there when the bowl is emptied.

3. Provide the pig with grass on a daily basis, as well as with one or two of the following: green pepper, romaine lettuce, tomato, baby carrot, broccoli leaves, broccoli stems, Chinese cabbage, corn silks, corn husks, parsley, dandelions, clover, chickweed, apple, apricot, banana, blueberries, strawberries, orange, grapes, raisins, cantaloupe, and watermelon. Keep in mind that the guinea pig is small and will only need a small amount of food. A leaf or two of leafy products, and a ½ cup of fresh fruits should be enough for your cavy.

4. Attach a water bottle that is specifically made for guinea pigs. Check the water level, and provide fresh water daily.

5. Attach a small salt wheel to the inside of the cage. Provide a chew stick as well. These products are both available at pet stores and in the pet care section of larger stores.

6. Clean the food dishes on a daily basis, especially those that have had fresh vegetables and fruits in them. Remove any uneaten vegetables or fruits from the cage.

Tips & Warnings

• Pay attention to the individual needs of your guinea pig. Every guinea pig is different.
• Do not feed alfalfa hay to guinea pigs that are not pregnant. This type of hay contains a large amount of calcium which can cause problems in the bladders of guinea pigs.
• Do not put vitamin drops in the water bottle because it is difficult to tell just how much Vitamin C the guinea pig is taking in.
• Avoid gathering grass and other foods for your cavy from any area that may be polluted by roadside dirt or pesticides.