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but will be welcomed by a pet guinea pig. Timothy hay provides the much needed fiber to keep the intestines in top working condition. Other hays can be substituted such as Kentucky blue grass or rye. Alfalfa is also an available choice but should be limited due to the high calcium levels which can cause bladder stones. Generally alfalfa is only recommended to young or pregnant guinea pigs.

Fresh fruits and vegetables will add essential nutrients to a guinea pig's diet and will also provide that all important vitamin C. Fruits should be limited as they can lead to obesity. Those vegetables that provide vitamin C and other vital nutrients for your guinea pig include sweet red peppers, strawberries, oranges, broccoli, red cabbage, and papaya, among others. Cabbage and broccoli can cause gas in your guinea pig so you may want to limit these vegetables.

Most importantly, all fruits and vegetables should be scrubbed or purchased organically to reduce the chances of toxic poisoning from pesticides. Foods you should avoid include avocado, chocolate, meat and dairy products, iceberg lettuce, onions, potatoes, uncooked beans, nuts, and seeds. These food items are either unhealthy or potentially poisonous to a guinea pig.

Providing small portions is the best route to go when feeding a meal to a guinea pig. Guinea pigs generally do not overeat, only eating until they are full and moving on. Provide a small amount of food several times a day and remove any uneaten portions to avoid waste build-up in the cage. If you provide your guinea pig with a nutritious and well-balanced diet, your pet should not need vitamin supplements. If you should have any concerns about your guinea pig's eating habits or overall appearance, you should seek advice from a qualified veterinarian.

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