For new owners, feeding guinea pigs properly can be tricky. But don’t worry, we’re here to break it down! These are the basics for everything that guinea pigs need to eat, from their daily diet to extras that you’ll also want to provide – this list is a great starting point for new owners to learn how to feed their guinea pigs the appropriate diet!

Feeding Guinea Pigs the Essentials

Hay

First and foremost, guinea pigs need hay — lots of it! Hay should make up the bulk of what you’re feeding guinea pigs. The best options are Timothy hay or Orchard Grass hay (which is especially good for those of you with allergies!) These types of hay provide the necessary fiber and nutrients guinea pigs need to keep their digestive system healthy.

Hay Pellets

In addition to hay, guinea pigs should be given pellets daily. Adult guinea pigs need Timothy-based pellets, while younger pigs under six months, as well as pregnant or nursing guinea pigs, need alfalfa-based pellets.

Vegetables

Veggies are also a key part of your guinea pig’s diet. Each day, they should get about one cup of fresh vegetables. You can even treat them to a little bit of fruit now and then! Just be careful with high-calcium vegetables like spinach, as too much calcium can cause bladder stones or calcium deposits in their urine. But don’t worry—I’ll link a super easy guide to the best fruits and veggies to feed regularly.

Chew Toys & Why They’re Important

Guinea pigs love chew toys, and they actually consume parts of them while chewing! Toys made from compressed hay, wood, paper, or even cardboard are perfectly safe for them to chew and swallow (and they will!). Chew toys help keep their teeth in check, so offering a variety of textures is important. Here are our favorite brands for chew toys:

Why Guinea Pigs Eat Their Poop

It might sound strange, but it’s totally normal for guinea pigs to eat their poop! What they’re actually eating are cecal pellets, which are a type of droppings rich in nutrients. By eating these, they can reabsorb important vitamins that their digestive system didn’t absorb the first time around. It’s a vital part of their nutrition, so don’t worry if you see them snacking on their own pellets!

Water & Weekly Chores

Guinea pigs need fresh water available at all times. Make sure you clean their water bottle weekly to prevent bacteria buildup. I actually have a handy guide to help you keep track of weekly tasks like cleaning water bottles and other chores for your piggies.

By focusing on these staples when feeding guinea pgis, you’ll help keep them happy and healthy!

Happy feeding!

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