What Do Guinea Pigs Eat? Daily Diet Blueprint & Nutrition Fundamentals

A guinea pig’s digestive tract is built for constant, high-fiber fermentation. Unlike dogs or cats, cavies cannot survive on commercial pellets alone; their dental and GI health depends on continuous fibrous chewing.

The 85-10-5 Diet Rule

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│  85% Unlimited Grass Hay (Timothy, Orchard, Meadow)    │
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│  10% Daily Fresh Vegetables (Leafy Greens + Vit C)    │
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│  5% Fortified Plain Timothy Pellets (1-2 tbsp/day)     │
└────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘

1. 85% Unlimited Grass Hay (The Foundation)

• Must be available 24 hours a day.
• Keeps continuously growing molars worn down.
• Provides crucial crude fiber to prevent fatal gastrointestinal stasis.
• Use Alfalfa hay ONLY for pregnant cavies or pups under 6 months (due to high calcium).

2. 10% Fresh Daily Vegetables

Offer approximately 1 cup of fresh vegetables per guinea pig daily.

• Daily Staples: Green/Red leaf lettuce, Romaine, Bell peppers (highest Vitamin C!), Cilantro.
• Moderate (2-3x a week): Broccoli, Cucumber, Zucchini, Kale.
• Occasional Treats: Carrots, Apple slices, Strawberries (high sugar!).

3. Dangerous Foods to NEVER Feed

• ❌ Onions, Garlic, Chives, Leeks (Toxic).
• ❌ Potatoes and Tomato leaves.
• ❌ Chocolate, Dairy, Meat, Bread, Nuts.
• ❌ Commercial seed mixes & yogurt drops (choking & GI hazard).

Dietary Core Takeaway

Feed unlimited Timothy hay 24/7, 1 cup of leafy greens with bell pepper daily, and small portions of plain pellets.