When you think about the idea of a pig in general, you think that he will eat basically anything you will feed him, and be extremely happy about it as well, no matter what.
Unfortunately, this is not completely true, especially if we talk about Guinea pigs in particular. They do share a name, maybe have some common traits, but when it comes to their diet, they do not have a lot of things in common.
A Guinea pig will most likely eat the whole day long. Don’t expect any table manners from them, as they have none. They will make a mess after breakfast, lunch and dinner and also after each and every snack they get. Otherwise, they are quite cute.
First of all, you need to know that they need to have some basics. One of them is water, of course, and they should have fresh water in their container every single day. Also, they need plenty of fiber in their diet, this being the most important thing they need. Fiber can be provided by feeding him hay and meadow grass.
Then, you need to look for a list of foods that they can and cannot eat. For sure you do not want to poison your pet with something you have a feeling he might love. Keep in mind the idea that not all Guinea pigs prefer the same types of foods. You will need to test a few of the recommended ones and see which ones your pet prefers and slowly get familiarized with his diet.
Even if you realize he loves fruits and vegetables you need to be careful with the amount you are providing as they might get diarrhea.
Also, put together a good feeding schedule for your pet. They do not appreciate sudden changes in their diet. Any big changes or surprises will cause stress.
You can offer your Guinea pig treats. They will make him happy, but pay lots of attention to what the treats contain and also the shape they come in. Some treats have a big choking hazard and can be really dangerous.
They mostly eat timothy hay and food pellets which can be easily found in pet stores, and fresh vegetables as well. The pellets need to contain 16% fiber and 20% protein, and also some Vitamin C.
There is a chance that if you provide them food all the time, they will become obese. If this is the case, start feeding them reduced portions whenever they seem to put on too much weight.
Here is a short list of foods that are good for your Guinea pig
Daily- Alfalfa pellets, Timothy hay, Lettuce, Radicchio, Zuccini
2-4 Times per week- Arugula, Cabbages such as green, red, pak choi, and Savoy, Cherries pitted feed in moderation, Cucumber with peel, Dandelion greens, Endive, Raspberries, Summer Squash
1-2 Times per week- Swiss chard in moderation may cause diarrhea, Blueberries, Carrots in Moderation, Apricot, Beets, Blackberries, Cauliflower, Kale
Rarely Feed 1-2 Times per month- Banana may cause constipation, Beet Greens and Leaves, Eggplant, Cantalope in small amounts, Radishes, Sweet Potato, Honeydew Melon, Watermelon
Guinea pigs seem to be very easy to take care of, and they usually are. There is also a slight chance that you will have one that is more sensitive when it comes to digestion. In such a case, you will have to ask for a veterinarian’s assistance in finding the right food to add to your pet’s diet, so he can be healthy and happy for a long time.
