Provide unlimited access to hay for your guinea pig no matter what supplements you decide to use. [3] X Trustworthy Source The Humane Society of the United States National organization devoted to the promotion of animal welfare Go to source You may add lucerne hay to a pregnant guinea pig’s diet to provide increased protein and calcium. [4] X Research source
Don’t store the food pellets for more than a month. Vitamin C degrades over time. While it will last up to three months in normal conditions, it may degrade faster in hot or humid weather. Follow the feeding instructions provide with the food. In general, guinea pigs will eat about 1/8 cup of pellets per day, supplemented by hay and vegetables. [5] X Trustworthy Source The Humane Society of the United States National organization devoted to the promotion of animal welfare Go to source Avoid brands of pellets that include sugar, seeds, or colourful pieces. These additional food pieces are high in sugar, which makes them unhealthy. They also discourage guinea pigs from eating their pellets. Plain oxbow pellets are best. Do not feed your guinea pig rabbit food. Choose a pellet brand that focuses solely on a guinea pig’s dietary needs. Most rabbit foods do not include vitamin C.
Leafy greens should be the main vegetable supplement for your guinea pig. Provide 2-3 leaves of various leafy greens each day.
Vegetables and fruits can be offered a few times a week. Since fruits are high in sugar, these should be given more sparingly.
Lettuces such as cos, romaine, and butterhead should be limited to 1-2 times a week, as they contain little nutrient value, and can cause bloating, diarrhoea and an upset stomach if fed in excess amounts. Iceberg lettuce should not be fed at all. Broccoli, cauliflower and brussel sprouts should be limited to 1-2 times a week, as they can cause bloating. High calcium vegetables, such as kale and spinach, should be limited to a few leaves every 2-3 weeks. Large amounts of calcium in their diet can lead to bladder stones.
You might add the supplement to a leafy green or other treats to encourage your guinea pig to take it. You can also administer liquids by a dropper or syringe, but try something else if your guinea pig resists this method. Don’t use a multivitamin designed for adults. It is likely to contain other vitamins and minerals that your guinea pig doesn’t need and that may cause harm in large quantities.
poor appetite and weight loss bleeding gums and pain the teeth stiff joints nasal discharge rough texture to the hair difficulty avoiding infections or healing from wounds
Always consult a vet if you think your guinea pig is pregnant. Guinea pigs often have difficult births, so medical supervision of the pregnancy is vital. [12] X Research source
You will need to administer an increased dose of Vitamin C for 1-2 weeks if your guinea pig is recovering from a deficiency. Your vet will be able to specify a dose. [13] X Research source
