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🐾 Guinea Pigs safety guide

Owners often assume that if a human can eat it, a guinea pig can too, which leads to dangerous mistakes with fruits and vegetables. Another common error is using materials like wood shavings or scented bedding that irritate their sensitive respiratory systems.

🚫 Keep away from guinea pigs

• Avocado — It contains persin, a fungicidal toxin that can cause heart muscle damage and death in guinea pigs.
• Rhubarb leaves — The leaves are high in oxalic acid, which can cause kidney failure and severe gastrointestinal distress.
• Onions and garlic — These alliums contain compounds that destroy red blood cells, leading to anemia and potential organ damage.
• Caffeine — Found in coffee, tea, and chocolate, caffeine is a stimulant that can cause heart arrhythmias and seizures.
• Citrus fruits — The high acidity causes severe stomach upset, diarrhea, and mouth sores in guinea pigs.
• Potato skins — They contain solanine, a toxic glycoalkaloid that can lead to neurological issues and digestive problems.
• Scented bedding — Strong fragrances like lavender or pine can trigger respiratory infections and asthma in guinea pigs.
• Cedar shavings — The aromatic oils in cedar are toxic and can cause liver damage and respiratory irritation.

Full list: toxic foods for guinea pigs →

✅ Generally fine for guinea pigs

• Hay (Timothy or Orchard) — This should make up the bulk of their diet to keep their teeth worn down and digestion moving.
• Bell peppers — These are excellent sources of Vitamin C, which guinea pigs cannot produce on their own.
• Cucumber — A hydrating, low-calorie treat that most guinea pigs enjoy for its crisp texture.
• Carrots — Safe in moderation due to their sugar content, but great for dental health and variety.
• Romaine lettuce — A good leafy green option that provides hydration and fiber without the oxalates found in spinach.
• Plain paper towels — Unbleached and unscented paper towels are a safe, absorbent alternative to traditional bedding.
• Wooden chew toys — Untreated, natural wood helps wear down their continuously growing teeth and prevents boredom.
• Water bottles — A clean, leak-proof bottle ensures they have constant access to fresh water, which is vital for kidney health.

🕘 Recently checked for guinea pigs

• Cedar shavings ⛔ Unsafe
• Essential Oil Diffusers ⛔ Unsafe
• Grapes ⚠️ Caution
• Carrot ⚠️ Caution
• Citrus Fruits ⚠️ Caution
• Avocado ⛔ Unsafe
• Banana ⚠️ Caution
• Apple ⚠️ Caution
• Celery ⚠️ Caution
• Spinach ⚠️ Caution
• Tomato ⚠️ Caution