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Guinea Pig Diet
Many new guinea pig owners wonder what they should feed their new pets. The guinea pig diet consists of many different things, and a healthy selection of different foods ensures that the animals will stay healthy and won't catch any diseases. Speaking to the pet store or the breeder about which food the animal is currently eating is a great way to start to determine what to feed your new guinea pig.
The majority of a guinea pig's diet is made up of pellet feed. Guinea pigs need a high amount of vitamin C in their diets, as they can not produce the vitamin on their own. Animals that don't get enough of this vitamin will become sickly and may develop scurvy. Different animals need different amounts of vitamin C, though an average guinea pig needs about 10-30 mg/day. If your guinea pig becomes pregnant or is old, you may need to increase their intake of vitamin C. In those cases, it is often to best to ask your veterinarian about your animal's diet.
In addition to pellets, fresh hay should always be available to your guinea pig. Hay is full of calcium and will keep your guinea pig healthy and strong. Fresh fruits and vegetables are another part of a balanced guinea pig diet, though they should be introduced gradually so that the animal's digestive system is allowed to adjust. Vegetables that lead to gas production should be avoided, such as cabbage and brocolli, as should starchy vegetables. Some examples of appropriate snacks are kale, romaine lettuce, and carrots. Spinach, apples, and parsley are also great snacks for guinea pigs to munch on.
In addition to their diets, guinea pig cages and guinea pig toys are important parts of the animal's life. Unfortunately, many of the commercial cages available for guinea pigs are not large enough for multiple pets, though the animals do best in groups. Making your own cage can be a great activity for parents and children, and many ideas online can help get you started. If you do purchase a commercial cage, try to allow at least 10.5 square feet per pair of guinea pigs.
The cage should not have a wire floor, as this can be hard on the guinea pig's feet. The choice of bedding is also important. Aspen and hay make the best beddings, and recycled paper can be another option. Furthermore, make certain to include a nesting box in the guinea pig's cage. A cardboard box or a plastic bucket makes an excellent nesting area for the animals.
Cages for guinea pigs should also include several toys to entertain the animal. Guinea pigs like places to hide, including bags and tubes, and things that can be pushed around the cage are also greatly enjoyed. Hard balls and wooden blocks are amongst some of guinea pig's favorite things to play with. Make certain not to give your pet toys with small pieces that might be chewed off and swallowed, as they are dangerous.