Looking after a guinea pig can be rewarding challenge. They’re lovable pets who need their own special diet and plenty of exercise time outside of their cage. Thankfully, there are plenty of foods you can feed to your cavy that don’t involve buying specialist pelleted food or making your own guinea pig snacks. However, many owners choose to give their pet a healthy variety of fruits and vegetables so as omnivores they get all the nutrients they need. Check out these 10 surprising foods you can feed a Guinea Pig.
What Should You Feed a Guinea Pig?
There is a common misconception that guinea pigs are vegetarians. This is not the case. In fact, guinea pigs are omnivores and require a balanced diet that contains both proteins and carbohydrates. So, what should you feed a guinea pig?
10 Surprising Foods You Can Feed a Guinea Pig
1. Lentils
Lentils are an excellent source of protein. They are also high in iron, making them one of the best foods to feed a guinea pig.
2. Bananas
Bananas are a great source of dietary fiber and potassium, they also contain Vitamin B6, C, and E as well as magnesium and manganese. These fruits also contain tryptophan, a precursor to serotonin which is known to improve mood and sleep quality. Bananas can also be mashed up and used as a binding agent in guinea pig food to help with digestion.
3. Beans
Beans, particularly black beans, contain high levels of protein and dietary fiber, as well as iron and B Vitamins. For guinea pigs, the benefits of beans mainly revolve around their high protein and fiber content. Protein is important for growth and repair of muscle tissue while fiber helps with digestive health and can help with weight management. Beans are also a decent source of iron and B vitamins, which help with energy production and metabolism.
4. Berries
Blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries are all excellent options for your guinea pig’s diet. Blueberries are an especially good choice, as they provide a high level of antioxidants, which can protect against aging and disease. Raspberries, on the other hand, are a good source of vitamin C. Most of these can be mixed with water and served as a sauce for your cavy, or mixed with a bit of yogurt for a tasty treat.
5. Broccoli
This super food is actually the best food you can feed to a guinea pig due to its high vitamin C and fiber content. These two things are essential for guinea pigs and their health, which is why broccoli is so great for them. Vitamin C is needed for immune function and as an anti-oxidant, and fiber helps with digestion. As a bonus, this vegetable also contains Vitamin A, which is important for eyesight.
6. Corn on The Cob
Corn on the cob is a great food choice for guinea pigs due to its high amount of dietary fiber. Not only does this help cavy’s with digestion, but it also helps with weight management which is always an important factor with small pets like guinea pigs. Another great thing about corn on the cob is that it contains Vitamin C and B6, which are needed for healthy blood and brain function.
7. Green Beans
Another vegetable that is great for your cavy’s diet is green beans. Not only do they provide dietary fiber, but they also have a large amount of Vitamin C. This is important for guinea pigs because it can help with immune function and skin health. Green beans are also a good source of rutin, which can help with Vitamin A absorption.
8. Nuts and Seeds
While nuts and seeds are high in fat, they’re also high in protein and contain Vitamin E. Just make sure you’re not giving your cavy any with nuts or seeds that they might eat. This is because they can get intestinal impaction, which is not good for them at all. Great options for guinea pigs include sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, and peanuts. Peanuts are actually a legume, but they’re still a great option.
9. Oranges
Oranges are the perfect food for a cavy because they have a high amount of Vitamin C and fiber. Vitamin C is important for immune health, which is why it’s so important for guinea pigs. It can also help with skin health and iron absorption. As for fiber, it can help with digestion, which is why it’s so important for guinea pigs.
10. Peas and Carrots
Peas and carrots are another great source of dietary fiber and Vitamin C. Vitamin C is essential for immune health, and fiber is important for guinea pigs to help with digestion.
Or Give Your Guinea Pig Hay and Specially Made Guinea Pig Dry Food
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In Conclusion
Feeding your pet a healthy variety of fruits and vegetables is beneficial for both their long-term health and short-term happiness. Hay is a low-calorie food that provides your pet with the fibre that it needs to keep its digestive system healthy. Alfalfa Sprouts: These sprouts are a rich source of vitamins and minerals that are essential for the overall health of your guinea pig. However, you must feed them to your pet in moderation, since they are also high in calories.
- Vegetables: While guinea pigs can survive on hay alone, it is always a good idea to feed them vegetables as well. Vegetables are naturally rich in vitamins and minerals.
- Fruits: Fruits are a great source of vitamins and fibre for guinea pigs. However, you should choose fruits that have low sugar content.
- Seeds: Some seeds, such as sunflower seeds, are a rich source of protein. You can feed your guinea pig these seeds occasionally.
- You may like: How Do We Know When Guinea Pigs Are Unhappy?
- Read: 5 Ways to Safely Exercise Your Guinea Pig
- Try this on pens: Best Open Bottom Exercise Pens for Guinea Pigs
