Guinea Pigs Diet Guinea pigs are herbivores and their natural diet is grass. Herbivores need lots of vitamin C, because they can not make their own. Unlike other mammals that synthesize their own vitamin C. Guinea pigs get their daily needs from raw fruits and vegetables or supplements.
Hay is an important component of the diet of Guinea pigs. Hay serves two important purposes. It is rich in fiber which helps the digestive system health. A Guinea pig teeth grow constantly, their molars are used for grinding plant matter, a good supply of hay should be available at all times to help keep their teeth trim.
Oxbow Cavy Cuisine pellets are good for adult Guinea pigs. They are rich in fiber, calcium has a balanced ratio of phosphorus, and are fortified with vitamin C. stabilized, however, they are not recommended for Guinea pigs under 6 months. Timothy Hay Pellet Cavy and mix is good food for pigs Guinea, Guinea, but your diet should also include pigs leafy vegetables, raw vegetables and fresh fruit.
Vegetables and herbs that are safe: Kale, cabbage, mustard, turnip greens, romaine lettuce, spinach, peas, celery, carrots, parsnips, parsley and basil. Red or green peppers are a good source of vitamin C, cucumbers and asparagus have a high water content.
Fruits that are safe, apples, oranges, cantaloupe, grapefruit, guava, honeydew melon, kiwi, mangoes, mandarin oranges and strawberries. Always remove the seeds. Submitting your Guinea Pig to new foods should be done slowly because of their sensitive digestive system. Always supervise digestive changes before gradually increasing quantities.
risk foods: potatoes, onions, radishes, mushrooms, iceberg lettuce, rhubarb, rhubarb leaves, and tomato leaves. These foods can cause toxic effects or digestive problems. Avoid feeding your grain Guinea pig mixtures containing fatty and sweet ingredients. Guinea pigs are herbivores and do not give them dairy products or meat.
Always ensure a supply of fresh water is available. Use a drip bottle to prevent contamination.
f you need additional vitamin C with vitamin C tablets plain is okay, but never give a multivitamin Guinea pigs. Excessive amounts of certain vitamins can cause other problems.
Using a syringe is a sure way to give your Guinea Pig Vitamin C supplement tablets. Never put medicines or vitamins in their water supply. A diet of Guinea pigs well balanced and nutritious keep your pet happy and healthy. Talk to your veterinarian to make sure that your Guinea is well. They may suggest dietary changes that you need to keep your pet in the very best health. Good luck.
By: Lee Martin Resource: http://www.Guinea-Pig-Lovers.com
Posted on May 21, 2010.