Top 10 Diet No-Nos for Guinea Pigs: What to Avoid!

Section 1: Edible Vegetables for Guinea Pigs

1. Guinea pigs have a variety of vegetables they can enjoy, such as corn husks, corn leaves, bell peppers, lettuce, celery, lettuce leaves, carrots, cucumbers, tomatoes, spinach, romaine lettuce, dill, mustard greens, okra, watercress, and pea sprouts.

2. Among these, guinea pigs particularly favor lettuce, bell peppers, and cucumbers. However, they tend to dislike okra and bitter lettuce. Lettuce is another favorite, but it should be fed in moderation as excessive consumption can lead to calciumuria. Always keep an eye on their intake to avoid overfeeding.

Section 2: Vegetables to Avoid for Guinea Pigs

1. Spicy vegetables like garlic, chili, onions, and chives should be offlimits.

2. Vegetables that can cause kidney stones, diarrhea, goiter, or flatulence, such as spinach, green beans, cabbage, kale, sweet potatoes, raw beans, cruciferous vegetables, and spherical vegetables, can be lethal if consumed in excess.

3. Some vegetables can be tricky to differentiate, like corn. While corn husks are safe, eating too many corn kernels can lead to constipation. Similarly, while pea sprouts are fine, fresh peas can cause adverse reactions. If you're unsure about a vegetable, it's best not to offer it to your guinea pig.

Section 3: Vegetables to Feed in Moderation

1. Some vegetables are safe for guinea pigs but should be given in moderation to prevent health issues. These include gasforming vegetables like corn kernels and kohlrabi, highsugar vegetables like arugula, and highcalcium vegetables like mustard greens and radish leaves.

2. Kale is rich in calcium and oxalates, and can also contain goitrogenic substances. Overconsumption or longterm use can lead to poisoning. Parsley, although high in vitamin C, also contains a high amount of calcium. Yellow and wilted parsley can be toxic to guinea pigs, so it should be fed sparingly or replaced with fresh vegetables.

Remember to feed your guinea pig vegetables as soon as you purchase them. Avoid longterm storage, as vegetables can lose moisture and wilt, which is not beneficial to their health.