Greetings Guinea parents! Being responsible and caring is a unique characteristic a human must have if having pets like guinea pigs. Ensuring the safe and recommended foods for guinea pigs’ safe journey is crucial. It is equally important that we know those foods that are not safe and not recommended for our furry friends guinea pigs.
Guinea pigs are unique creatures and require a lot of care and love for a healthy life. Guinea pigs daily require some nutrients, minerals, and vitamins through fresh fruits and veggies to supplement their regular duet i.e. high-quality fresh hay, and some pallets for their overall health and well-being. So it is important to include a balanced and suitable variety in their diet to ensure they get the daily dose of vitamins and minerals they need. But a serious question to ponder is this, Can guinea pigs eat all types of foods?
Although, many foods are safe to feed guinea pigs some of these foods like jalapenos, pickles, cheerios, olives, meat, cat food, etc. are extremely toxic, while others will cause varying degrees of digestive problems or serious health issues like diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, allergic reactions, etc. if fed over time. If you are a new pet owner of the guinea pigs family you must have thrived for the knowledge of those foods that are not safe to feed guinea pigs.
Here you can also find those foods that are safe to feed and the best recommended foods with frequency of serving along with the best way to feed and serve those foods to guinea pigs.
After going through a long guinea pig journey and experience, I decided to guide and share the most dangerous and toxic foods as well as the list of those foods that are not toxic but best avoided for guinea pigs for their digestive and overall health.
50 Foods Not Recommended To Feed Guinea Pigs :
1. Can Guinea Pigs Eat Meat?
It is not recommended to feed guinea pigs meat, it is on the top of the list to avoid feeding guinea pigs because guinea pigs are herbivore creatures and cannot digest meat at all and they dislike the meat or foods mixed with meat.
Ensure that when guinea pigs are playing out of the cage in the garden or any outdoor place for floor time, make sure that there is no kind of meat or any food bowls for other pets on the ground because eating even a small amount of meat rather any kind of meat or fish, cooked or raw mixed with other safe foods can make them very sick and cause serious health issues for guinea pigs.
2. Can Guinea Pigs Eat Dog or Cat Food?
As stated and mentioned above, Guinea pigs must be avoided from fed meat or products mixed with meat, this also disqualifies any kind of treats or foods mixed with meat or kind of kibble that you are feeding to your cat or dog.
I also have a very cute playful dog (German shepherd) named Bolt, and a cat that gave me the idea to research cat or dog food that I can feed to my guinea pigs, and I found it not recommended to feed guinea pigs.
3. Can Guinea Pigs Eat Rabbit or hamster food?
Guinea pigs have different nutritional requirements and rabbits, and hamsters have different requirements but their food may look similar whereas ingredients are vastly different for each of them the same goes for gerbils, mice, rat food, etc. So, it is not recommended to feed guinea pigs with the food of rabbits and hamsters.
One of the main reasons that guinea pigs can not be served with rabbit or hamster food is the requirement of vitamin C which they can not produce themselves naturally and require proper consideration while offering any food to ensure the proper intake of vitamin C. Guinea pigs require vitamin c for their overall health and especially for the prevention of scurvy in guinea pigs that causes serious pain and joints problems.
One of the reasons that guinea pigs can not be served with hamster food contains corn and seeds in their diet whereas it is not recommended to serve any seeds to guinea pigs causing choking hazards.
Another reason for rabbits’ food not to be served to guinea pigs is that rabbits’ food contains high vitamin D requirements that are not safe for guinea pigs. That may sometimes contain elements to prevent coccidiosis, which can be harmful to guinea pigs.
Always choose fresh quality hay, some fruits and veggies, and some amount of fresh pallets without colored pieces or seeds for guinea pigs because colored pieces are flowers and not a healthy option for guinea pigs.
4. Can Guinea Pigs Eat Dairy Products?
As we know Guinea pigs are herbivores and strict vegans, Dairy and its products are very bad to feed to guinea pigs because it may also cause serious health issues for guinea pigs.
It is not recommended to feed guinea pigs the dairy and its products including milk, cheese, curd, yogurt, ice cream, sour cream, cream cheese, whipped creams, etc. can lead to serious digestive issues like stomach upset, diarrhea, and allergic reactions that can make your guinea pig very ill.
5. Can Guinea Pigs Eat Animal By-Products?
It is not recommended to feed guinea pigs any kind of animal by-products including eggs, honey, mealworms, meat or dairy products as mentioned above, animal body parts as meat, or any other product that has gluten or other animal-derived ingredients.
Guinea pigs cannot digest such types of foods that come from animals and they can also be very rich in animal proteins, fats, and sugar.
6. Can Guinea Pigs Eat Chocolate or Candies?
It is not recommended to feed guinea pigs any treat like chocolate or candy that can be very unhealthy and sometimes very toxic for guinea pigs. Chocolate and candies may contain a high content of sugar and any kind of food rich in sugar is very dangerous for guinea pigs’ health causing weight gain and obesity subsequently leading to a dangerous and most concerning problem diabetes.
7. Can Guinea Pigs Eat Garlic?
It is not recommended to feed guinea pigs garlic as it is very toxic and harmful to guinea pigs’ health because it contains some substances like high oxalate that can interfere with the absorption of calcium in the body leading to the generation of bladder or kidney stones as well as some compounds that can damage Red Blood Cells in guinea pigs leading to severe breathing problems and weakness.
Even a small amount can cause serious health issues, so keep your guinea pigs far away from garlic and foods mixed with garlic.
8. Can Guinea Pigs Eat Onions?
All those foods belonging to the Onion family including onions, spring onions, onion grass, garlic, green onions, leeks, chives, and shallots are not recommended to feed guinea pigs and are reported as toxic for your cavies. These family plants contain sulfur-containing oxidants that can damage the red blood cells of guinea pigs after the ingestion process.
So always look for any kind of plant belonging to the onions family and keep your guinea pigs far away from these plants and foods that can cause serious health issues like anorexia, lethargy, collapse, rapid heartbeat, weakness abnormal rapid breathing. It is advised that if you see or notice any kind of reaction by your guinea pigs, immediately consult with a veterinarian for guidance and help.
9. Can Guinea Pigs Eat Potatoes?
It is not recommended to feed guinea pigs potatoes, because potatoes and their parts including leaves and their peel or rind are toxic for guinea pigs and cause serious digestive issues. Potatoes have having rich amount of carbohydrates that can be an unhealthy option from a guinea pig’s nutritional point of view.
Green potatoes containing rich amounts of solanine a poisonous element for guinea pigs are much dangerous and must be avoided to feed your cavies.
10. Can Guinea Pigs Eat Rotten or Moldy Foods?
It is best said to “Do as you would be done by others (including your pets) “, as humans seek fresh and clean food and watch for any kind of mold or rotten parts. Being a responsible, caring, and loving owner same rule must be applied to your furry friend’s guinea pigs, so it is not recommended to feed guinea pigs rotten or moldy foods. Listed below are the checks you must consider for offering any new food to guinea pigs;
- It is very necessary to double-check any type of food you are going to serve your guinea pigs for any rotten or molded parts or any fungus or cut that can have bacteria and harm your guinea pig.
- For checking purposes properly wash the veggie or fruit first to remove dirt then turn that food upside down to check for any molded or rotten parts because sometimes these little spots may easily be missed.
- You may also cut that fruit or veggie into pieces to ensure that its flash part is not molded or rotten because sometimes the skin might be fresh but a flash of that veggie may be spotted.
- It is best to serve any frozen food that is only recommended to be served within three days to ensure its nutritional benefits for guinea pigs.
- It is always advised to remove any uneaten part from a guinea pig cage when their tummy is full or left out of that food after eating to ensure the removal of sludge inside a cage that can easily multiply bacteria inside the cage and can be harmful to guinea pigs.
- It is also recommended that it is not only any fruit or veggies you must check for but also you must check the hay periodically which must be fresh and clean. Due to moisture factor, mold can be grown in hay very quickly that is very easy to detect by smell or color change.
11. Can Guinea Pigs Eat Alcoholic Foods?
It is not recommended to guinea pigs food that has alcoholic properties or contains any alcoholic compound because that can be very harmful to your guinea pigs. Alcohol can damage the guinea pigs’ lungs, and throat subsequently leading to very critical issues for guinea pigs.
12. Can Guinea Pigs Eat Coffee?
It is not recommended to feed guinea pigs that food contains any kind of caffeine properties. It can cause serious stomach upset for guinea pigs if ingested by any caffeine product. Beans are also not safe to feed to guinea pigs because that causes stomach issues in guinea pigs.
13. Can Guinea Pigs Eat Tea?
As I have mentioned above caffeine products are not recommended to feed guinea pigs that cause stomach issues in guinea pigs, the same is the case for tea which also contains caffeine and it is not recommended to serve guinea pigs.
14. Can Guinea Pigs Eat Plants or Veggies with Pesticides or Chemicals?
Guinea pigs have very sensitive stomach and digestive systems and need proper care while offering any food, so it is always recommended to serve clean food to them. Beware of pesticides and chemicals on fruits or veggies sprayed in a store or during harvesting that can be very harmful to guinea pigs’ digestive system and overall health.
Ensure while picking or cutting herbicide-treated plants like grass or dandelions for your guinea pigs. Always avoid feeding any plant or herb that is connected to any pesticides or chemicals but if you are not sure of it, if in doubt avoid feeding them.
It is not recommended to feed guinea pigs the grass that was cut or picked from any park or public place that may not be good for your guinea pigs because other animals may have spoiled that grass or people in the park have spoiled by their shoes having dust particles and bacteria on that grass.
It is best to cultivate your grass, fruits, or veggies in the kitchen garden to ensure that these are organic and away from any pesticides or chemicals.
Also, avoid buying any non-organic food from any store, always go for organic food and buy from a verified dealer or store that has a non-GMO verified label on it.
15. Can Guinea Pigs Eat Lawnmower Clippings?
It is not recommended to feed guinea pigs that grass cut with the lawnmower clipping which can be potentially dangerous for guinea pigs. Grass clipping by lawnmowers can cause severe digestive issues for guinea pigs due to the lawnmower fuel or pollution mixed with the grass clippings.
Lawnmowers can also cause gastrointestinal issues and bloating in guinea pigs if served or ingested.
Always ensure that guinea pigs are playing in a safe garden that has no lawnmower clipping in it or most importantly wild herbs or weeds around them in that garden which can cause serious health issues for guinea pigs.
Always pick grass by hand or a cutter that is safe for you to cut some grass for guinea pigs.
16. Can Guinea Pigs Eat Glue, Paint, tape, or Varnish?
It is advised that when your guinea pigs are out for their playtime outside from their cage keep a good look out on them on their movements or behavior. Also be sure to remove any kind of paint, glue, tape, varnish, etc. that is non-food-graded items from their surroundings, because these have some chemical substances that can be harmful to your guinea pigs and can also be toxic to guinea pigs’ health.
17. Can Guinea Pigs Eat Pickles?
Any type of pickle is not recommended to feed guinea pigs because of their high acidity and quite high in sodium which can cause serious digestive issues like diarrhea, stomach upset, and vomiting for your guinea pigs. Even a small amount of pickle should not be fed to guinea pigs. It is always recommended to feed the raw food to guinea pigs.
18. Can Guinea Pigs Eat House plants and Other Garden Plants or Flowers?
Although, Plants or flowers in our garden or house a very unique and give a natural scenery it is not recommended to feed guinea pigs with those plants and flowers when you are not sure about their safety because that can be dangerous for guinea pigs.
Some of the poisonous plants for guinea pigs that may be found in our homes or gardens include clematis, columbine, nightshade, dog mercury, fool’s parsley, poppies, honeysuckle, yew, ragwort, foxglove, horsetails, hemlock, ivy, lobelia, sorrel, lupines, and many other plants that you may have in your garden or home. Always do proper and thorough research before feeding any plant or flower to guinea pigs.
One of the very poisonous flowers i.e. Buttercup flowers (yellow wildflowers) and daisies (yellow and white wildflowers) for guinea pigs’ health. Always be careful not to collect or feed any of these poisonous flowers for guinea pigs.
Many other flowers may be poisonous for guinea pigs, so it is best suggested to do thorough research on any type of food before offering it to guinea pigs. Unless you are sure and learned about any specific type of flower to serve guinea pigs, it is best to have causation about that food or flower. Some of the safe flowers I know that can help you feed your guinea pigs include dandelions, marigolds, roses, chamomiles, and guinea pigs can get some nutritional benefits out of these flowers in moderation.
19. Can Guinea Pigs Eat Dock Leaves?
It is not recommended to feed guinea pigs dock leaves after flowering or seedling because they contain high oxalic acid which is very dangerous for guinea pig’s overall health. If in doubt do not feed such things that can harm the guinea pig’s health.
20. Can Guinea Pigs Eat Oak and Maple Tree Leaves?
It is not recommended to feed guinea pigs with maple leaves either fresh or dried because they contain Gallic acid a very dangerous compound for guinea pigs’ health.
It is not recommended to feed guinea pigs any part of an oak tree including leaves, branches, acorns stems, flowers, etc. which are very poisonous for guinea pigs and many other pets.
21. Can Guinea Pigs Eat Jalapeno Peppers?
It is not recommended to feed guinea pigs any kind of spicy, including hot or jalapeno peppers because it can cause pain and stomach upset for guinea pigs due to the sensitive nature of the digestive system.
Some healthy peppers can be fed to your guinea pigs and they enjoy it as well such as bell peppers.
To Read the Full Article Can Guinea Pigs Eat Jalapenos? Visit Here:
22. Can Guinea Pigs Eat Eggplant Leaves or Unripe Eggplants?
It is not recommended to feed guinea pigs eggplant leaves or unripe eggplant that contain a high amount of solanine which is highly toxic to guinea pigs. Unripe eggplant may be green and not a good option for guinea pigs because it also contains such toxins which are harmful for guinea pigs.
However, it is recommended to feed a fully ripe eggplant without leaves to guinea pigs but with moderation and gradual introduction to ensure the optimum uses of its nutrients for guinea pigs because this eggplant does have not many nutrients but ensuring a proper way of feeding can be a useful option and an occasional treat for guinea pigs.
23. Can Guinea Pigs Eat Plants that grow from Bulb?
It is not recommended to feed guinea pigs the plant that grows from a bulb which not be a healthy option for guinea pigs because it contains some toxic elements that are very dangerous for guinea pigs. Some of the plants that grow in bulbs I have seen and do care for my guinea pigs include daffodils, lilies, tulips, hyacinths, iris, lily of the valley, anemones, bluebells, snowdrops, and many more that you must do thorough research if you know or have seen any type of plant that is grown by the bulb in your garden before feeding to guinea pigs.
It is always suggested that, if in doubt avoid feeding any food or plant to guinea pigs and make sure guinea pigs have not access to such plants or food that are not safe to feed them.
24. Can Guinea Pigs Eat Evergreen Trees and Shrubs?
It is not recommended to feed guinea pigs anything with pine needles i.e. coniferous trees which are poisons for guinea pigs’ health.
It is also not recommended to feed guinea pigs or let them chew the Christmas tree in your house and avoid them grazing any type of shrub around your kitchen garden or pine trees if you take them outside in the garden.
25. Can Guinea Pigs Eat Tomato Leaves and Stalks?
It is not recommended to feed guinea pigs tomato leaves and stalks which are poisonous to guinea pigs. You should also avoid feeding guinea pigs with green tomatoes which also contain traces of such toxins.
Fully ripe tomatoes are safe to feed guinea pigs with moderation but make sure to remove the leaves and stalks before serving guinea pigs.
26. Can Guinea Pigs Eat Rhubarb?
It is not recommended to feed guinea pigs rhubarb leaves and stalks which are poisonous for guinea pigs’ health and could lead them to very sick problems. Rhubarb is very high in calcium and oxalic acid which can cause kidney and urinary tract stones to develop in guinea pigs which is a very dangerous situation for them.
Do not confuse Rhubarb leaves with Swiss chard leaves as Swiss chard leaves are safe to feed your guinea pigs in moderation.
27. Can Guinea Pigs Eat Avocado Skin, Pit, and Seeds?
It is not recommended to feed guinea pigs any part of avocado including pit, flesh, seed, skin, etc. that contains persin, which may be poisonous for them and cause health issues. Avocado can also cause heart problems, hemorrhaging issues, inflammation, and gastrointestinal issues for guinea pigs which can affect the overall health of guinea pigs.
Some healthy and best fruits that can be considered to feed your guinea pigs in moderation include Blackberries, Plums, Pomegranates, Cherries, Honeydew melons, Dragon Fruit, Pears, Nectarines, etc.
28. Can Guinea Pigs Eat Xylitol?
It is not recommended to feed guinea pigs that food contains a compound named xylitol found in sugar-free candy or baked goods which is very toxic for our furry friends. It can cause a sudden decrease in blood sugar by triggering insulin release causing a condition called hypoglycemia in guinea pigs which is very threatening to their overall health and life as well.
It can also cause depression leading to seizures and fainting. It can also affect the liver of guinea pigs like hepatic necrosis (Death parts of the liver), and hepatic cell death which is a very concerning and serious clinical condition. If you observe any symptoms of xylitol in guinea pigs immediately rush to the veterinarian for a medical check-up.
29. Can Guinea Pigs Eat Plastic Bags or Other Related Objects?
It is self-explained that it is not recommended to feed guinea pigs, but many guinea pigs think it is an edible thing! I have read about many people asking a query that my guinea pig had eaten plastic bags, plastic toys, laundry baskets, etc. Eating any plastic particle including any shopping bag I not safe for guinea pigs. If you have observed your guinea pigs eating such things immediately run for veterinarian help for the betterment of the guinea pig.
It is not only indigestible for guinea pigs but also may have sharp edges that can hurt your guinea pigs mouth or if ingested can hurt the stomach and can block the intestines leading to a very critical situation.
Always ensure during playtime that the ground is safe and there are no such things that can harm guinea pigs including plastic or shopping bags. It is also advised that do not serve guinea pigs any food in any shopping bag that can be ingested by them and cause a hazardous situation.
30. Can Guinea Pigs Eat Wild Mushrooms?
It is not recommended to feed guinea pigs wild mushrooms because it may be pesticides or chemicals and poisonous for guinea pigs but raw mushrooms can be fed to guinea pigs. Most of the mushrooms are safe to feed guinea pigs but you may choose a healthier option for piggies.
31. Can Guinea Pigs Eat Beans?
It is not recommended to feed guinea pigs except green beans, but most of the beans and lentils are not recommended to feed guinea pigs. Even dried beans are also not recommended to serve guinea pigs because they may cause choking hazards for guinea pigs.
Guinea pigs are also not recommended to serve with any cooked processed or canned beans.
Many beans have a high content of calcium, phosphorus, and water content which can cause serious health issues for guinea pigs and cause stones to build due to the high phosphorus-to-calcium ratio. Beans can also cause certain digestive issues like bloating, diarrhea, or stomach upset. One of the poisonous beans is runner beans for guinea pigs.
32. Can Guinea Pigs Eat Rice?
It is not recommended to feed guinea pigs rice because it contains excessive fat and carbohydrates for guinea pigs which can not be digested by guinea pigs easily causing digestive health issues. It also contributes to weight gain and obesity for guinea pigs which is a serious concern for guinea pigs’ health.
33. Can Guinea Pigs Eat Processed Human Food?
It is not recommended to feed guinea pigs any kind of man-made food that contains seasonings, flavors, spices, oil, salt, etc. which can cause serious digestive and health issues for guinea pigs.
It is best to serve guinea pigs with recommended treats that are safe for them but do not treat them with French fries, potato chips, pizza, toast, pasta, cookies, biscuits, and crackers.
34. Can Guinea Pigs Eat Ginger?
It is not recommended to feed guinea pigs ginger because it is rich in calcium content and causes digestive upset. Even do not think of serving raw ginger to guinea pigs.
As stated above do not serve any kind of pickle to guinea pigs that also includes ginger pickle.
35. Can Guinea Pigs Eat Popcorn?
It is not recommended to feed guinea pigs with popcorn due to its high fat and calorie characteristics. Although popcorn is not poisonous for guinea pigs may also cause choking hazards for guinea pigs. Raw corn kernels can be more dangerous for choking and avoid feeding it to guinea pigs.
As stated above they do not serve any human processed food to guinea pigs including popcorn also which may contain salt or seasonings. Popcorn has no health or nutritional benefits for guinea pigs, so it is not a healthy option to feed them.
36. Can Guinea Pigs Eat Peanut Butter?
It is not recommended to feed guinea pigs with peanut butter because it is also high in fat calories and very sticky for the teeth of guinea pigs and that can be choked on by guinea pigs very easily.
In addition, peanut butter is very hard to digest guinea p[pigs like nuts, etc., and can cause stomach problems for that reason it is not recommended to feed guinea pigs peanut butter.
37. Can Guinea Pigs Eat Alfalfa Hay?
It is not recommended to feed guinea pigs with Alfalfa Hay (also known as Lucerne) which belongs to legume hay. It is high in calcium which can be dangerous for guinea pigs causing bladder stones over time. Even do not think to serve fresh alfalfa hay grass to guinea pigs because it is richer in calcium.
It is best to avoid alfalfa hay in adult guinea pigs especially due to the high content of calcium that can be absorbed by adult guinea pigs very easily. You can choose a healthier option of calcium-containing veggies and fruits having a normal ratio for guinea pigs.
Alfalfa hay is genetically modified to grow more efficiently and resistant to weed killers so always go for non-GMO crops or organic products which are safe for guinea pigs. So hay like timothy hay and orchard hay are preferable options for guinea pigs.
38. Can Guinea Pigs Eat Dried Fruits?
It is not recommended to feed guinea pigs any kind of dried food because it contains a rich amount of sugar and flavors as well as preservatives that can be dangerous for guinea pigs’ digestive system being very sensitive. Rich amounts of sugar may also cause obesity and weight gain in guinea pigs leading to diabetes and serious health issues.
In addition to that dried fruits or veggies do not contain as much nutritional value as any raw food for guinea pigs if served in moderation.
Dried fruits may also be sticky for guinea pigs’ teeth and cause bloating or choking issues for them. Even fresh fruits rich in sugar can be fed in moderation and occasionally with small amounts or limited quantities.
39. Can Guinea Pigs Eat Cereals, Bread, and Other Grains?
It is not recommended to feed guinea pigs food that is made up of grains due to their sensitive digestive system that can not digest these grains very easily causing stomach upset. Even human foods containing grains are not safe to feed guinea pigs due to their sugar and preservative properties. Some of the grain-based foods are also high in fats and carbohydrates which can contribute to weight gain and obesity for guinea pigs which is a serious concern for guinea pigs’ overall health.
Some of the grains like bread a soft but dry and cause choking for guinea pigs due to their dryness. It is best to avoid grain-based food for guinea pigs that includes bread, buns, breakfast cereals, rice, oats, pizza dough sides, or countless other grain-based items.
40. Can Guinea Pigs Eat Cooked or processed Food or Veggies?
It is not recommended to feed guinea pigs with cooked or processed food that contains seasonings, seasoning, oil, etc. which can cause digestive issues for guinea pigs. Guinea pigs have evolved to eat raw food and veggies that are easily digested by them.
In addition, cooked food has very low nutritional values due to cooking, even soft or half-cooked food does not provide any benefit to guinea pigs but that can also cause digestive issues for guinea pigs.
41. Can Guinea Pigs Eat Canned Veggies or Fruits?
It is not recommended to feed guinea pigs with canned veggies or fruits because it may contain some chemicals, flavors, salts, and preservatives which is not a healthier option for them. It would seriously harm your guinea pigs’ health and well-being.
Some of the nutrients are also wasted in canned food to make it shelf-stable. Feeding fresh fruits and veggies should only be an option with a caring owner to make a healthy and balanced life for guinea pigs.
42. Can Guinea Pigs Eat Frozen Fruits and veggies?
Frozen fruits and veggies can be served to guinea pigs but no longer than exceeding 3 days of frozen food, try not to feed frozen food exceeding 3 days in the freezer that can also be bad for guinea pigs. Provide fresh and healthy fruits or veggies to guinea pigs as an alternative.
In some cases, frozen food may also cause digestive issues, so do not hesitate to consult a professional veterinarian for guidance and help or go for a medical checkup.
It is also seen that store-bought frozen foods are blenched first which involves the process of partially cooking veggies before freezing which will remove some of the nutrients that raw food can provide, so frozen food is not a healthier option that is why you must opt for raw and fresh fruits and veggies as purity.
Many leafy greens veggies should be served fresh due to their nutritional benefits, after storing or freezing these leafy greens may be wilted or soggy which would be refused by most of the guinea pigs to eat.
Freezing may also sometimes the taste, texture, and water content of vegetables and fruits, that is why raw food must be the priority in feeding guinea pigs because most of the guinea pigs love to eat fresh and raw veggies and fruits.
43. Can Guinea Pigs Eat Coconut?
It is not recommended to feed guinea pigs coconut because it contains very high fats and high levels of phosphorus which can contribute to the formation of stones in guinea pigs.
Coconut does not contain the nutrients a guinea pig requires for their well-being and good health which is why it is not part of a natural diet. So it is recommended to avoid feeding coconut to guinea pigs.
44. Can Guinea Pigs Eat Treats like Honey, Seeds, and Yogurt?
It is not recommended to feed guinea pigs with treats like yogurt drops mixed with any food, chew sticks made up of seeds or honey, or any other sugary treats that can not be digested by guinea pigs easily or cause digestive issues in guinea pigs.
45. Can Guinea Pigs Eat Lemons and Lime?
It is not recommended to feed guinea pigs lemon or lime because it is quite acidic for guinea pigs and can cause mouth ulcers, and soars. Teeth issues, and many digestive problems.
Some other types of citrus fruits like grapefruits and oranges can be fed to guinea pigs but only a small amount and in moderation and as an occasional treat which will provide a high level of vitamin C for guinea pigs and are less acidic for guinea pigs than other citrus fruits. Always remember to remove the seeds first before serving guinea pigs.
46. Can Guinea Pigs Eat Nuts?
It is not recommended to feed guinea pigs any kind of nuts including peanuts, almonds, cashews, walnuts, pistachios, hazelnuts, pecans, or others due to their too high fat for guinea pigs.
Nuts can also cause choking hazards for guinea pigs and are not built for the sensitive digestive system of guinea pigs, so eating them can cause pain in the stomach in guinea pigs.
47. Can Guinea Pigs Eat Many Types of Seeds?
It is not recommended to feed guinea pigs with dry seeds that are much bigger because it can cause choking hazards for guinea pigs and some can get stuck in their teeth or hurt their gums or teeth. Some of the seeds are also high in fat and some like apple seeds contain arsenic which is dangerous for guinea pigs.
Some of the seeds are safe to feed guinea pigs like bell peppers, tomato seeds, and cucumber seeds which are small and easily digested by guinea pigs.
You can also check on Pumpkin Seeds that can also be fed to guinea pigs, but what would be the way of feeding these feeds is very important you must know.
48. Can Guinea Pigs Eat Iceberg Lettuce?
It is not recommended to feed guinea pigs iceberg lettuce which can cause diarrhea and stomach upset for guinea pigs. Although iceberg lettuce is not dangerous it has no important nutritional benefits available for guinea pigs, so it is best to avoid feeding it to guinea pigs.
Other options of lettuce such as Romaine lettuce, Green leaf, red leaf, radicchio lettuce, and butterhead lettuce can be fed in moderation to your guinea pigs.
Many other healthier options can be fed to guinea pigs like arugula, asparagus, zucchini, snap peas, mustard greens, cilantro, butternut squash, broccoli, jicama, parsley, rosemary, basil, beets, etc. for the best nutritional gain for guinea pigs.
49. Can Guinea Pigs Eat Tobacco?
Contains nicotine, toxic to guinea pigs if ingested, and causes many health issues which can lead to even death.
50. Can Guinea Pigs Eat Processed Oils?
It is not recommended to feed with any food mixed with any type of processed pol that can be too fatty and lacking in nutrients for guinea pigs and cause digestive as well as health issues.
Conclusion:
Always do thorough and proper research before introducing any new food or any food available at your doorstep because guinea pigs have very sensitive digestive systems that can lead to many health issues.
As I have mentioned in the list of food some are very dangerous and toxic and some should be avoided to keep guinea pigs healthy. The mentioned list of foods may also surprise you if you do proper research.
Always provide those foods that have good nutritional benefits for guinea pigs like vitamin C and some important minerals that can benefit your guinea pig, and avoid those foods that are less nutritious.
It is also recommended that do not hesitate to give a call to a specialist veterinarian and animal behaviorist for any guidance or if you observe any change or allergic reaction in your guinea pig you must go immediately for a medical check-up for your furry friends.
As you venture into the guinea pig journey, you will find many foods that are not safe to feed guinea pigs subsequently you will also find some foods in online stores or pet stores advertised directly to guinea pig owners. Always check and read about the food risks and benefits before serving to guinea pigs.
References:
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Lord, E., Collins, C., deFrance, S., LeFebvre, M.J., Pigière, F., Eeckhout, P., Erauw, C., Fitzpatrick, S.M., Healy, P.F., Martínez-Polanco, M.F. and Garcia, J.L. (2020). Ancient DNA of guinea pigs (Cavia spp.) indicates a probable new center of domestication and pathways of global distribution. Scientific reports, 10(1), 1-9.
Merck & Co., Inc. (2006). The Merck Veterinary Manual (8th edition). Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck & Co., Inc.
Navia, J. M., & Hunt, C. E. (1976). Nutrition, nutritional diseases, and nutrition research application. In Biology of the Guinea Pig, J. E. Wagner and P. J. Manning (Eds.), (pp. 235-265). New York: Academic Press.
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