What should you feed your guinea pigs in order for them to stay healthy? The answer is simple: fresh hay should make up 85% of their daily food intake. Hay is essential for their digestion, dental health, and overall well-being.

 

In this guide, we’ll break down the best foods for your guinea pigs, what to avoid, and how to keep their diet nutritious and varied.

🥕 The Ideal Guinea Pig Diet

 

A healthy guinea pig diet consists of:

• 85% fresh hay 🌿
• 10% fresh vegetables 🥦
• 5% high-quality pellets 🥣
• Unlimited clean water 💧

 

Each part plays a vital role in their health. Let’s find out why hay is the most important.

 

🌿 Why Fresh Hay is Essential (85% of Their Diet)

 

Hay is the cornerstone of a guinea pig’s diet. It provides essential fibre, which keeps their digestive system running smoothly and prevents blockages. Guinea pigs have continuously growing teeth, and chewing hay naturally wears them down.

 

Best types of hay:

• Timothy hay – The good option for adult guinea pigs.
• Orchard hay – A softer, sweeter alternative.
• Meadow hay – A natural mix that adds variety.
• Alfalfa hay – Suitable for baby guinea pigs but too rich for adults.

 

Ensure your guinea pigs always have access to fresh, high-quality hay. Try keeping it in a hay tray to reduce mess and allow them space to burrow. Replace it daily to keep it clean and appetising.

For the full range of hay varieties delivered to your door, check out Little Hay Co.

🥬 Fresh Vegetables (10% of Their Diet)

 

Veggies provide essential vitamins and minerals. Aim for one cup of fresh vegetables per guinea pig daily.

 

Best Vegetables for Guinea Pigs

 

✅ Leafy greens – Romaine lettuce, coriander, parsley, kale (in moderation).

✅ Peppers – Red, yellow, and green bell peppers are rich in Vitamin C.

✅ Carrot & carrot tops – A great treat, but feed in moderation.

✅ Cucumber – Hydrating and refreshing.

✅ Broccoli – High in Vitamin C but can cause gas.

 

Vegetables to Avoid ❌

 

• Iceberg lettuce – Low in nutrients and may cause diarrhoea.
• Potatoes – Toxic to guinea pigs.
• Onions & garlic – Can cause serious health issues.

🥣 Pellets (5% of Their Diet)

 

Pellets should be a small part of their diet. They provide extra nutrients but should never replace hay and vegetables. Opt for something like the Burgess pellets rather than the muesli style which is full of fillers and can lead to selective feeding.

 

Choosing the Best Pellets

 

✅ Timothy hay-based pellets (not alfalfa for adults).

✅ No seeds or coloured pieces – These are unhealthy fillers.

✅ Fortified with Vitamin C – Guinea pigs can’t produce this vitamin themselves.

 

Feed around ⅛ cup per guinea pig per day. Overfeeding pellets can lead to obesity and digestive problems.

💧 Fresh Water is Essential

 

Guinea pigs must have unlimited access to clean, fresh water. A drip-style bottle works best, but always check that it’s working properly. Some guinea pigs prefer a small bowl, but bowls can become dirty quickly.

🍉 Safe Fruits for Guinea Pigs (Occasional Treats)

 

Fruits are high in sugar, so they should only be given in small amounts 1-2 times per week.

 

Safe Fruits for Guinea Pigs

 

✅ Strawberries – High in Vitamin C.

✅ Apples – Remove the seeds as they are toxic.

✅ Blueberries – Packed with antioxidants.

✅ Melon – A hydrating summer treat.

 

Fruits to Avoid ❌

• Grapes – Can cause kidney problems.
• Citrus fruits – Too acidic for their stomachs.
• Tomato leaves and stalk

❌ Foods Guinea Pigs Should Never Eat

 

🚫 Dairy products – Guinea pigs are lactose intolerant.

🚫 Meat & eggs – They are strict herbivores.

🚫 Nuts & seeds – Choking hazard and high in fat.

🚫 Chocolate – Toxic to all pets.

🚫 Processed foods – Chips, bread, and cereals are harmful.

 

🏠 Creating a Feeding Schedule

 

A consistent feeding routine helps guinea pigs feel secure. Here’s an ideal daily plan:

 

Morning ☀️

 

• Fresh hay refill
• Small portion of pellets
• A mix of vegetables

 

Evening 🌙

 

• More fresh hay
• A different selection of veggies
• Occasional fruit (if it’s a treat day)

 

Cleaning their food bowls and water bottles daily prevents bacteria build-up.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

 

Can guinea pigs eat grass?

Yes, as long as it’s pesticide-free. Introduce it slowly to avoid stomach upset. They must not eat mowed grass clippings as it can cause digestive problems.

 

Do guinea pigs need Vitamin C supplements?

If they get enough from fresh vegetables and pellets, supplements aren’t necessary. However, some guinea pigs benefit from extra Vitamin C drops.

 

What happens if my guinea pig doesn’t eat enough hay?

They can develop digestive issues, dental problems, and serious health conditions. Always make hay available!

✅ Final Thoughts

 

A proper guinea pig diet is 85% fresh hay, with vegetables, pellets, and occasional treats making up the rest. Fresh water is essential, and a varied diet ensures they get all the nutrients they need. By following these guidelines, your guinea pigs will live a long, healthy life.