Browse the foods checked for your animal. Choose an animal first: an answer for one species never stands in for another.
Fruit
- ApplesSafe
Yes, as a small treat, without the pips. Fruit is high in sugar, so PDSA advises very small amounts.
- AvocadoToxic
Avocado can poison guinea pigs. Merck names guinea pigs among the animals affected by avocado poisoning, and the RSPCA lists it as harmful or poisonous to them.
- BananasSafe
Yes, as a small treat. PDSA and the Royal Veterinary College list banana among fruits for guinea pigs, in very small amounts.
- GrapesSafe
As an occasional treat. The Royal Veterinary College lists grapes among fruits for guinea pigs, fed as treats once or twice a week.
- OrangesCaution
Sources disagree. The Royal Veterinary College and VCA list oranges as an occasional treat, but the RSPCA lists citrus fruit as harmful to guinea pigs, so we advise caution.
- StrawberriesSafe
Yes, as a small treat. PDSA and the Royal Veterinary College list strawberries among fruits for guinea pigs, in very small amounts.
Herbs
- ParsleyCaution
Yes, but do not overfeed it. Parsley is high in calcium; rotate it with other vegetables rather than giving lots.
Vegetables
- Bell peppersSafe
Yes. Bell peppers of any colour are a good vegetable for guinea pigs and a source of vitamin C, which they need from their food.
- BroccoliSafe
Yes, in small amounts a few times a week. Too much at once can cause gas, and the RSPCA notes its calcium content.
- CarrotsSafe
Yes, as an occasional treat in very small amounts. Carrots are high in sugar.
- CucumberSafe
Yes, as part of their daily vegetables. The Royal Veterinary College and the RSPCA both list cucumber for guinea pigs.
- KaleCaution
Small amounts a few times a week only. Kale is high in calcium, and the Royal Veterinary College advises against overfeeding high-calcium foods.
- LettuceCaution
It depends on the type. Romaine and gem lettuce are listed as suitable; avoid iceberg, which the RSPCA lists as harmful to guinea pigs.
- PotatoesToxic
Potatoes are not safe for guinea pigs. The Royal Veterinary College lists potato among poisonous plants for them, and the RSPCA and PDSA say to avoid potatoes and their skins.
- SpinachCaution
Small amounts a few times a week only. Spinach is high in calcium, and the Royal Veterinary College advises against overfeeding high-calcium foods.
- TomatoesSafe
Yes, the ripe fruit, as part of their vegetables. Never the leaves or plant, which are poisonous to guinea pigs.