Guinea pigs are herbivores, which means they only eat plants and plant-based food. A healthy diet for guinea pigs should include:
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Hay and grass: Good-quality hay should make up most of your guinea pigs diet, and they should always have it available to them. They should have fresh grass as often as possible too, ideally every day. They naturally graze, eating only grass, herbs, and some other plants (such as dandelion or groundsel) for long periods, both day and night.
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Pellets: Guinea pigs should have fresh, washed leafy greens or colored vegetables (especially those high in vitamin C, such as bell pepper, tomato, and asparagus) . Commercial food should be supplemented with hay and fresh vegetables. Choose vitamin C-fortified pellets with no seeds or dried fruit added. About 1/8 cup of pellets once a day—supplemented by hay and fresh vegetables as described below—will be enough.
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Fresh vegetables and fruits: Fresh vegetables can be offered once a day and should be equivalent to about one cup total per guinea pig per day. Leafy greens like romaine lettuce, red and green leaf lettuces, kale, cilantro, and parsley should comprise the bulk of your pig’s fresh produce. It’s best to provide variety by feeding different greens each day. Vegetables like red or green pepper and broccoli have high levels of vitamin C in them and are great daily options. Guinea pigs don't naturally eat fruit, but you can give small amounts as an occasional treat. Fruit is high in sugar, which can cause obesity. Grapes, for example, are high in sugar and should be given sparingly.
It is important to avoid feeding guinea pigs foods that might seem harmless but can cause significant health issues. Make sure you do not feed your guinea pigs the following foods: avocado, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, dairy products, nuts, seeds, and dried beans.
