This guinea pig diet guide outlines everything you need to know to keep your pet healthy and thriving. Guinea pigs are strict herbivores and require a high-fiber, vitamin C-rich diet to avoid common health issues. Proper nutrition supports healthy digestion, dental wear, and overall well-being.
Water: always available
- Fresh, clean water must be available at all times
- 🥣 Use a heavy ceramic bowl to prevent tipping
- 🧴 If using a bottle, check regularly for leaks or blockages
Hay: the foundation of their diet
Guinea pigs need to eat constantly to maintain proper digestion:
- Offer Timothy hay at all times
- ❌ Avoid alfalfa hay — too high in calcium for adults
Benefits of hay:
- Promotes gut motility and prevents GI stasis
- Allows for natural dental wear (teeth grow continuously)
- Prevents painful dental overgrowth and spikes
The role of vitamin C
Guinea pigs cannot produce vitamin C on their own — it must be provided daily.
🥬 Best natural sources:
- Kale, parsley, beet greens, spinach (in moderation)
- Red or orange bell peppers, broccoli, tomatoes
- Fruits: oranges, kiwi (small amounts)
🥗 Recommended portions:
- 1 to 2 handfuls of fresh vegetables per day
- Fruit: about 1 tablespoon daily, due to sugar content
⚠️ Limit high-calcium veggies like spinach and broccoli
Pellets: a useful supplement
Use a high-quality guinea pig pellet as part of their diet:
- At least 20% fiber
- Under 16% protein
- Under 2.5% fat
- Under 1% calcium
Storage tips:
- Buy small quantities
- Store in the fridge, tightly sealed
- Use within 2 months of opening
💡 Be aware: vitamin C in pellets degrades quickly — don’t rely on it as the sole source
What to avoid in a guinea pig’s diet
- ❌ Nuts, seeds, dried fruit, corn
- ❌ Bread, pasta, sugary or processed foods
- ❌ Pellets containing the above ingredients
👉 Vitamin C supplements may be needed in some cases — available in liquid or oral form. Always consult your veterinarian before use.
A healthy guinea pig diet means unlimited hay, daily vegetables rich in vitamin C, high-fiber pellets, and plenty of clean water. With proper nutrition, your guinea pig can live a long and healthy life.
