The diet of the guinea pig is similar to that of other animals, even so, depending on the stage it is in, it may vary.
In this article on our site we are going to discuss the dietary needs of young, adult, elderly and pregnant guinea pigs. In addition, you will also find lists of permitted and prohibited foods so that you have all the necessary information.
Keep reading to find out feeding guinea pigs according to their age.
Feeding young guinea pigs
Although it may be surprising, guinea pigs begin to eat shortly after birth, although they do suck from their mothers to receive adequate amounts of calcium and immune protection. It is after three weeks (at least) that we can consider separating the parent from the young guinea pig.
Once the young guinea pig enters its new habitat, it should have fresh hay available 24 hours a dayas it develops its teeth and favors the digestive system. In the market you will find hay with dandelion flowers for example, a fantastic option and they love it.
Guinea pigs under 15 months should receive two daily rations of feed, essential for their growth. Consult your usual store for a quality product that is specific for this breed of rodent.
It's also time to make your guinea pig try all kinds of fruits and vegetables, this way you'll discover his favorite foods and not you'll have trouble incorporating them into your adult diet. We recommend that you offer him small portions at the beginning so that he does not cause discomfort in his body.
Some examples of fruits and vegetables:
- Apple
- Strawberries
- Cantaloupe
- Arugula
- Carrot
- Canons
Feeding adult guinea pigs
Once our guinea pig enters adult life (between 7 and 8 months of age) it will continue to need fresh hay available throughout the dayand since guinea pigs do not have intestinal motility they need to eat throughout the day to stimulate their digestive system and prevent it from stopping.
We will continue to offer recommended fruit and vegetables for guinea pigs on a daily basis and greatly reduce their feed consumption which will then become a 20% of your total diet.
Remember that guinea pigs should not eat certain foods such as sugar, coffee or an excess of parsley, find out about prohibited foods for guinea pigs.
Feeding pregnant guinea pigs
The pregnancy of the guinea pig usually lasts approximately 65 days or so and it is a stage in which we must pay attention to its care and also to its feeding.
Pregnant guinea pigs should get extra calcium and vitamin C, found in many fruits and vegetables. In the market you will find vitamin supplements that your veterinarian will recommend if he considers it necessary, consult with him about this process so as not to have any disappointment.
