What Do Guinea Pigs Eat? Safe and Unsafe Foods List

Guinea pigs are adorable herbivores that require a carefully balanced diet to thrive. Unlike many pets, they cannot produce their own Vitamin C, making their nutritional needs unique. A well-rounded diet not only ensures their health but also prevents common illnesses like scurvy and obesity.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about feeding your guinea pig, including the essential components of their diet, safe treats, and foods to avoid. Let’s dive into the ultimate food list for your furry friend!

The cornerstone of a guinea pig’s diet is hay, making up 80% of their daily intake. High-quality hay such as Timothy or Orchard hay is essential for proper digestion and maintaining healthy teeth, which grow continuously. Ensure fresh hay is always available in their cage. Replace it daily to keep it clean and appealing.

Plain, fortified guinea pig pellets are another vital component of their diet. These pellets provide essential nutrients, including Vitamin C, in controlled amounts. Look for pellets without seeds, nuts, or artificial colours. A small serving of 1–2 tablespoons per day is sufficient for most guinea pigs.

Vegetables are a fantastic source of vitamins and hydration. Focus on Vitamin C-rich options like bell peppers, parsley, kale, and cucumbers. Feed 1 cup of mixed vegetables daily, rotating the selection to ensure variety and prevent pickiness. Avoid overfeeding high-sugar vegetables like carrots.

Hydration is key to your guinea pig’s health. Always provide clean, fresh water in a bottle or bowl. Check water bottles regularly to ensure they aren’t clogged, and clean them frequently to prevent bacterial growth.

While treats are a fun addition to their diet, they should be offered sparingly to avoid obesity.

Guinea pigs can enjoy fruits as occasional treats. Some safe options include apples (seedless), strawberries, and blueberries. Limit fruit to 1–2 small pieces a few times a week, as they are high in sugar.

• Keep portions small.
• Introduce new treats slowly to monitor for allergies or digestive upset.
• Avoid feeding treats too frequently.

Certain foods are highly dangerous for guinea pigs and should be avoided at all costs. These include:

• Chocolate
• Onions and garlic
• Avocado
• Potatoes and potato peels

These foods can cause severe health issues, including poisoning and gastrointestinal distress.

Vegetables like broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower can cause bloating, a potentially fatal condition for guinea pigs. Stick to less gassy greens instead.

Human snacks, such as bread, crackers, candy, or chips, have no place in a guinea pig’s diet. They are difficult to digest and can lead to obesity or other health problems.

• Wash Fresh Produce: Always rinse vegetables and fruits thoroughly to remove pesticides and dirt.
• Introduce New Foods Gradually: When offering a new food, start with small portions to avoid upsetting their digestive system.
• Monitor Eating Habits: Keep an eye on your guinea pig’s eating patterns. Reduced appetite or food refusal can be early signs of illness.

A balanced diet is the foundation of a happy and healthy guinea pig. Ensure their diet includes plenty of hay, fortified pellets, fresh vegetables, and clean water. Use fruits and treats sparingly and avoid toxic or processed foods.

For more specific feeding tips, check out our detailed guides on DIY treat recipes or feeding schedules to keep your guinea pig in tip-top shape!

Got questions about guinea pig nutrition? Leave a comment below, and we’ll be happy to help! Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more guinea pig care tips delivered straight to your inbox.