- Place hutch away from rain, wind and direct sunlight
- Layer bedding hay over an absorbent base like shredded ink-free paper, cat litter or wood shavings
- Feed two large handfuls of timothy or lucerne hay, 1/4 cup of green leafy vegetables, 1/4 cup of guinea pig pellets
- Occasional guinea pig treats are ok
- Change water daily to keep fresh
- Remove droppings, wet spots and uneaten vegetables daily
- Replace bedding hay weekly
- Allow free range exercise but supervise carefully
- Handle gently and regularly. Use two hands to pick up
What foods can I Feed my guinea pig every day?
What Should I Feed My Guinea Pig Daily?
- Vegetables. Apart from an unlimited supply of timothy hay, grown-up guinea pigs need raw and fresh vegetables and fruits, rich in fiber and vitamin C.
- Fruits. Fruits shouldn’t be given too often since they have a much higher level of sugar and acid. ...
- Pellets. ...
- Things You Should Avoid Giving Your Guinea Pig. ...
What food do guinea pigs like best?
What do Guinea Pigs Like to Eat?
- Apple,
- Broccoli Spears,
- Orange,
- Pears,
- Strawberries,
- Papayas,
- Spinach,
- Romaine Lettuce,
- Artichokes,
- Bell Peppers ( Red & Green),
How often should I Feed my guinea pig?
[Feeding Chart & Guide]
- Vegetables High in Vitamin C for Guinea Pigs. All of the above vegetables are high in vitamin C, which is an essential vitamin for guinea pigs. ...
- Vegetables Low in Vitamin C for Guinea Pigs. ...
- Fruit High in Vitamin C for Guinea Pigs. ...
- Fruit Low in Vitamin C for Guinea Pigs. ...
- Food Not Good for Guinea Pigs. ...
- Guinea Pig Feeding Chart. ...
What fruits and veggies can I Feed my guinea pig?
- Broccoli
- Zucchini
- Pitted apricots
- Potatoes
- Cucumbers
- Carrots
- Dark green lettuce
- Squashes
- Beets
- Snow peas
What is the best food to feed guinea pigs?
The preferred basic diet for guinea pigs is unlimited amounts of Timothy or other low-calcium hay, supplemented with smaller amounts of a commercial, high-fiber, Timothy-hay based guinea pig pellets. Vitamin C (see below) should be given each day. Hay should be offered free-choice throughout the day.
What household foods can guinea pigs eat?
CHART KEYAlfalfa – pellets0Alfalfa pellets are suitable for young, growing and/or pregnant guinea pigs (under 1 year of age). Ref. Pellets: Alfalfa vs Timothy.Beets (beetroot)4.90Bell pepperSee Peppers (capscium)Blackberries21.00Blueberries9.7Feed in moderation.98 more rows•May 31, 2010
Do guinea pigs need vegetables every day?
Guinea pigs' need fresh greens and vegetables every day to help them get enough vitamin C (they can't produce it themselves). Our vets' advise one teacup of greens and veg, per guinea pig, per day, which can be split into morning and evening feeds.
What veggies can guinea pigs eat everyday?
Summary. Of all the vegetables we have listed, the best ones are asparagus, broccoli, bell peppers, dandelions, romaine lettuce, spinach, and zucchini. You can begin adding these foods to your guinea pig's daily diet to help them get the nutrients they need to live long, healthy lives.
What can't guinea pigs eat list?
A short list of the foods to avoid feeding your guinea pig includes:Chocolate (or anything else containing caffeine)Onions.Garlic.Mushrooms.Iceberg lettuce.Avocados.Nuts.Potatoes.More items...
What is poisonous to guinea pigs?
Onions and garlic These two combined make a great seasoning for practically anything. However, onions and garlic both belong to the plant group called Allium and these have some substances that are toxic for guinea pigs.
Can guinea pigs eat peanut butter?
Peanut butter should never be given to guinea pigs – not even as a rare treat. The thick texture makes it a choking hazard. Guinea pigs can't easily digest the fat, sugar, and preservatives in peanut butter. Additionally, the calories and additives will make make guinea pigs overweight.
Can guinea pigs eat cheese?
Dairy products - dairy products such as milk, cheese, yoghurt etc are derived from animals and should not be fed to your Guinea Pig.
What do guinea pigs eat?
Guinea pigs rely on fresh vegetables and fruits for their daily needs of vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients. While leafy greens should comprise the main part of their daily intake of fresh produce, fruits are generally considered treats because of their high sugar contents.
What to use to keep guinea pigs clean?
Fresh, clean water. Guinea pigs need constant access to fresh, clean water. We recommend using water bottles made from glass because they’re easier to keep clean, but a small ceramic bowl could work too. Don’t forget to empty and refill daily, and keep the bottle clean at all times.
What is the best hay for guinea pigs?
While high-quality Timothy hay should make up at least 80% of your guinea pigs’ daily diet, fruits and vegetables are highly necessary to provide them with their much needed vitamins and other nutrients. As part of a healthy guinea pig diet, it is recommended to offer a mix of healthy fruits and vegetables on a daily basis.
Why do guinea pigs need Timothy hay?
The reason why Timothy hay is preferred, is because of its low calcium content. If you want to learn more about hay, check our article on the best types of hay for guinea pigs.
Can guinea pigs produce their own vitamin C?
According to this article from VCA Hospitals, authored by Laurie Hess (DVM) and Rick Axelson (DVM), guinea pigs cannot manufacture their own vitamin C. A lack of vitamin C makes them more prone to infections, skin problems and other diseases, which is why their diet must contain sufficient amounts of vitamin C.
Do guinea pigs eat vegetables?
Guinea pigs cannot hold themselves back, and they’ll eat whatever is offered. As they’re prone to weight problems, it’s your responsibility to keep their diet properly balanced. That means no excessive feeding of vegetables and fruits, the only thing they should have access to 24/7 is fresh water and hay.
What do guinea pigs eat?
Guinea pigs are herbivores, which means they eat a plant-based diet. Similar to other rodent species, their teeth are continuously growing - so they need plenty of roughage in their daily diet to wear down their teeth and prevent dental problems. To keep your guinea pig happy and healthy, their diet should consist of unlimited guinea pig hay, ...
What percentage of guinea pigs eat hay?
Hay: Roughly 80-90% of your guinea pig's diet should be hay. Quality hay is a vital part of your guinea pig's diet, so it's important to make sure it is freely available at all times. Fresh vegetables and greens: 5-10% of your guinea pig's diet should be fresh greens and vegetables (serve about a cup of vegetables/greens per guinea pig daily).
How to bond with guinea pigs?
To bond closely with your guinea pig and increase hand-feeding interaction levels, you can try rewarding your guinea pig with the occasional treat during playtime. For example, our Selective Naturals Woodland Loops Dandelion and Rosehip are a great choice for guinea pigs - these delicious snacks are rich in natural ingredients and high in fibre. With no added sugar and no artificial colours, you can ensure this reward is a healthy and fulfilling one your furry friend will love. Just remember, treats should be fed in moderation, so make sure you read the feeding guidelines on the packaging.
Do guinea pigs eat their own poop?
Guinea pigs will eat their own poop and digest it a second time to get vital nutrients for their health. But these aren’t regular piggie droppings – guinea pigs only eat special faeces called ‘cecotropes’ or ‘night faeces’ produced through the fermentation of food created in the guinea pig’s gut.
Can guinea pigs eat clover hay?
Luecerne hay (also known as alfalfa) and clover hay are high protein hays that are made from dried legumes, not grass. They are more fattening than grass hay so they should not be fed to your guinea pig. These hays also have a higher concentration of calcium which can lead to the formation of urinary stones.
Do guinea pigs need vitamin C?
Vitamin C is of utmost importance to guinea pigs, as they are unable to manufacture their own (much like humans). Without enough vitamin C in their diets, guinea pigs can become very ill with scurvy. To combat this, pellets and treats fortified with Vitamin C should provide your guinea pig's daily needed intake, but there are also additional options. Supplementing with treats in the form of citrus fruits and vegetables allows you to provide Vitamin C from natural sources, while still giving him the opportunity to enjoy the diversity and fulfilment that comes from a well-balanced diet.
What do guinea pigs eat?
Diet plan. Hay, vegetables, fruits, branches, herbs and other plant. There is very much you can feed your Guinea Pigs. Cavies listen to their natural instinct and really like to eat what grows on ground – raw. Most of all feed hay!
What fruit should I feed my guinea pig?
Fruits for Guinea Pigs. Fruits should be handled as sweets for cavies and not to be provided too much (may be once a week) because of its fructose and fruit acids. Fruit. Hints / notes. Apple. Do not feed if one of your cavies has lip grind. Banana. Rich in sugar. Do not feed if one of your cavies has Diabetes.
How to keep cavies soft?
At winter season you should replace grass with fresh vegetables to keep them healthy with a diet rich in vitamins.
How to care for guinea pigs in the evening?
Fresh hay has to be provided all time. Water has to be filled up from time to time. Only use clear and fresh water. There is no reason to provide special “rodent-water” from the pet shop if you take care about the food for your Guinea Pigs.
What is the best food for cavies?
Cucumber. Very popular food for cavies. Endive. rich in vitamins and minerals / appetizing. Fennel. rich in vitamins and minerals. Can take on color on urine. Helpful by digestive complaints. field salad.
What foods can you feed a da?
Feed carefully because of it oxialic acid. May take color on urine and feces. Can be provided with the green. Broccoli. High amount of vitamin C. Contains oxialic acid. Provide it increasing. Carrot. Rich in calories. Do not feed every da.
Can guinea pigs eat vegetables?
Vegetables for Guinea Pigs. Vegetables should be the main fresh food in their nutrition plan at the winter season if/and there is no way to get fresh grass. Of course vegetables does not replace hay. Fresh hay has to be provided permanent. All green marked vegetables can be used for proper diet. Vegetable.
What to feed guinea pigs?
Your pig will be perfectly happy with high quality pellets and hay and treats of fruits and vegetables. For a special snack, try mixing some rolled oats into your guinea pig’s pellets or stuff a small cardboard tube with fresh hay. Top 10 tips.
How to keep guinea pigs fresh?
Keep it fresh. The steady amount of produce in your guinea pig's diet means that you need to be conscientious about removing uneaten fruits, veggies and other perishable foods before they spoil. Check for untouched or unfinished treats an hour or so after they’ve been offered to your guinea pig.
What sweetener is good for guinea pigs?
Loaded with artificial sweeteners such as high fructose corn syrup, fructose or sucrose, they provide little nutritional value and lots of empty calories.
What vegetables should I feed my pig?
It’s best to provide variety by feeding different greens each day. Vegetables like red or green pepper and broccoli have high levels of vitamin C in them and are great daily options.
Do guinea pigs overeat?
How much to feed. Guinea pigs don't usually overeat, but it's important to provide the proper balance of pellets, hay and fresh vegetables. Like human beings, guinea pigs cannot make their own vitamin C, so they require vitamin C-rich foods in their daily diet.
Can guinea pigs eat salt wheels?
But if you’re feeding your guinea pig a varied and well-balanced diet, these products shouldn't be necessary.
Can guinea pigs have bladder stones?
Note: Because guinea pigs are susceptible to developing painful bladder stones, and some bladder stones are comprised of calcium oxalate, reducing or eliminating foods high in oxalates—such as spinach, parsley and strawberries—can provide benefit in guinea pigs who develop calcium oxalate stones.
What do guinea pigs eat?
Guinea pigs are natural grazers and will eat fairly continuously throughout the day. Hay should be offered fresh and changed daily and makes up approximately 80% of their daily diet. Hay is an important source of dietary fibre to help with efficient digestion, and helps wear down their ever growing teeth. Timothy or Meadow hay are the most ...
How to pick up a guinea pig?
Guinea pigs should be picked up by placing a hand over their shoulders, which will make them crouch . When they are crouching, your other hand should be used to gently scoop them up from behind. Always handle your guinea pig with both hands as they startle very easily.
How to keep guinea pigs from chewing on furniture?
Make sure to guinea pig proof your home prior to letting your pigs loose; remove electrical cords within chewing reach and provide toys to help prevent chewing on things such as your furniture.
How to get guinea pigs to approach you?
Your guinea pigs should be handled frequently to keep it tame and maintain a bond between you. Offering a favourite treat or vege can help encourage them to approach you. Lift gently with both hands and hold them close to your body. It's important to remember to always support their hind legs.
How big should a guinea pig enclosure be?
You are best to provide your guinea pigs with the largest enclosure possible and the run should be at least 90cm long , and the bigger the better. Length of run is more important than height or multi-levels as guinea pigs are happiest on a flat surface. There should be an attached secure sleeping area. It is recommended to add extendable pens on to your hutch to further increase the maximum run size. The enclosure should be escape proof and safe from predators.
Why do guinea pigs gnaw their teeth?
A guinea pig’s teeth continually grow; it is essential that they gnaw in order to keep them at a manageable length. Overgrown teeth can cause serious health problems and need to be assessed by your veterinarian. Always provide your pig with chew toys and/or a fruit tree branch.
How to tell if a guinea pig is sick?
The signs of an unhealthy guinea pig are: 1 Diarrhoea or a dirty bottom 2 Overgrown teeth 3 Weight loss 4 Skin lesions 5 Abnormal hair loss 6 Lethargy or changes in behaviour 7 Eye or nasal discharge 8 Gum bleeding 9 Heat stroke - panting, loss of consciousness or seizures 10 Changes in behaviour or activity 11 Gassy or bloated belly
What do guinea pigs eat?
What to Feed Guinea Pigs. We’re going to go over the different kinds of foods your guinea pig can and cannot eat. The most essential food in the cavy diet is hay. In fact, 80% of their diet should be composed of hay—Timothy hay is usually best. Vegetables and herbs make up 10%-15% of their diet, and pellets about 5%-10%.
What vegetables are good for guinea pigs?
Cucumber. Zucchini. Broccoli (small amounts or they might become gassy) Celery leaves. Kale. Cilantro/coriander. Mustard greens. All of the above vegetables are high in vitamin C, which is an essential vitamin for guinea pigs.
Why are guinea pigs called pigs?
And then secondly, they are not related to pigs in any way. It is believed that they were named “pig” because of the cute little squealing noise they make that sounds somewhat piglike. Your guinea pig’s diet, like with any pet, is of the utmost importance. You want to be sure that you’re fulfilling your cavy’s daily dietary requirements and ...
Can you give a cavy a lot of food?
You should avoid giving your cavy any food that will cause gas, such as cauliflower and cabbage. Iceberg lettuce can cause diarrhea, onions (and anything in the onion family) can lead to a blood disorder, garlic is toxic, and avocado is too high in fat.
All About Guinea Pigs
The guinea pig is a species of rodent that belongs to the family Caviidae and the genus Cavia. Guinea pigs belong to the rabbit family and are native to South America.
How to Start Guinea Pig Meat Farming
Starting your guinea pig meat farm is very easy. Guinea pigs don’t require too much care, and management is easy. Follow the tips listed here to start a successful guinea pig meat farm.
Buy Healthy Animals
Make sure you buy good quality animals for your farm. There are several guinea pig varieties available. The smooth-haired English guinea pig is the most common, well-known variety.
Feeding
Guinea pigs are natural herbivores and spend their time grazing in small herds in the wild. Feeding guinea pigs is easy as they eat the same foods as rabbits. Their natural diet is grass. They do well when fed fresh grass hay, like timothy hay. A pelleted form of timothy is also available commercially.
Breeding
Breeding guinea pigs is easy. Males are called boars, and females are called sows. Generally, a sow can begin breeding as early as five weeks of age.
Environmentally Friendly Organic Meat
Giant guinea pigs organically farmed and bred for meat are twice the size of the guinea pigs used as pets. Their meat is marketed as an alternative source of protein to poultry and a healthier option to red meat. Research by Peru’s national health institute reported that guinea pig meat has greater nutritional value than beef, lamb, or poultry.
Marketing and Selling
Top chefs in Ecuador, Peru, and Colombia have brought traditional Guinea pig meat back in popularity, with curried roasted and sweetened versions of this delicacy appearing on menus. With the newfound interest in guinea pig meat, marketing and selling the meat should not be a problem.
What is the best food for guinea pigs?
It’s also low in sugar, so it makes a perfect staple food. Cut raw bell peppers into manageable sizes and give them to your pet every day. 5. Broccoli. Image Credit: Auntmasako, Pixabay. Broccoli is a safe food to give your guinea pig, and you can begin adding it to its daily diet.
What do guinea pigs eat?
Guinea pigs like to eat grass and Timothy hay, but they also like to eat various vegetables.
What vegetables should I feed my guinea pig?
Of all the vegetables we have listed, the best ones are asparagus, broccoli, bell peppers, dandelions, romaine lettuce, spinach, and zucchini. You can begin adding these foods to your guinea pig’s daily diet to help them get the nutrients they need to live long, healthy lives.
What are some good vegetables for guinea pigs?
The 17 Best Vegetables for Guinea Pigs in Alphabetical Order Are: 1. Asparagus. Image Credit: MarieXMartin, Pixabay. Asparagus is a perfect example of a nutritious vegetable you can frequently feed your guinea pig. It’s low in sugar and provides your pet with plenty of vitamins and minerals.
What to feed guinea pigs for diarrhea?
Celery is another nutritious food that you should only provide your guinea pig once or twice a week because it can cause diarrhea in some pets, and it also has a lot of calcium which can cause health problems. It’s a rich source of vitamin C, and guinea pigs tend to enjoy it, but you should only provide no more than ¼ stalk along with the leaves at a time for a treat. Adding other vegetables can also help balance the nutrients and reduce the risk of diarrhea.
How much broccoli should I feed my guinea pig?
Cabbage. Both the red and green varieties of cabbage make an excellent addition to your guinea pig’s diet, and most experts recommend feeding it raw 2 or 3 times a week for optimal health.
Can guinea pigs eat beets?
You can feed your pet guinea pig all parts of the beet plant, including roots, leaves, and stalk. It provides plenty of vitamins, potassium, and fiber. The only downside to beets is that they have a lot of calcium which can be harmful to guinea pigs if they get too much. Most experts recommend giving your pet a quarter cup once a week as a treat.