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Guinea pigs are herbivores and require basic nutrients to survive in captivity. In their native land of South America, guinea pigs can be found foraging on a variety of plant life including grass, roots, wild plants, flowers, and fruits. Domesticated guinea pigs will need adequate amounts of nutrients and vitamins including protein, fat, fiber, calcium, and most importantly, vitamin C.

The diet of domesticated guinea pigs is easily maintained due in part to quality commercial pellets available in most stores. However, it is recommended that a guinea pig should be supplemented with fresh fruits, vegetables, timothy hay, and obviously fresh water. A quality pellet should contain 16 to 20 percent protein and 16 percent fiber and should be designed for guinea pigs. Pellets that are labeled for guinea pigs, hamsters, and rabbits most generally do not contain vitamin C and can also be supplemented with other substances that may not be safe for a guinea pig. An adult guinea pig needs a minimum of 15 milligrams of vitamin C daily but may need more depending upon their health issues.

Something quite peculiar to guinea pigs is how they can be accustomed to one brand of pelleted food. It is not uncommon for a guinea pig to snub its nose when offered a different brand. For this reason, owners should offer their pet guinea pig alternate brands while they are still young to prevent pellet refusal when they are adults.

Packaged guinea pig foods come in a variety of flavors and colors. There are green-colored pellets which are generally hay based and there are the colorful pellets that are supplemented with dried fruits and veggies. You may want to stay clear of those packaged foods that contain nuts and seeds as they have caused choking hazards to some guinea pigs. When reading the label, you do not want to have any of the following ingredients listed: any animal products, beet pulp, corn products, rice bran, rice flour, or vegetable fiber. Sweeteners to avoid include corn syrup, sucrose, and also try to avoid preservatives. All of these ingredients are either unhealthy for a guinea pig or are simply fillers that do not contribute to a healthy diet.

When purchasing commercial pellets, buy in small quantities and always check the expiration date. The vitamin C contained within the pellets typically only remains active for a few months so the fresher the food, the more nutritious for the guinea pig.

Supplemental foods are not only vital to a healthy diet

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