So if you are enjoying some spinach for yourself, you can feel free to let your guinea pig have some. Well, we hope that this blog post would have helped you a lot to know about the fact that can guinea pigs eat spinach! The function of the stem is to support the leaf and to carry water and nutrients to the spinach leaf. But there is something in spinach that can cause a problem for guinea pigs so you need to be careful with how much spinach they are fed. It is a moderate source of Vitamin C, fiber, and folate that is essential for our guinea pigs. I have always had a deep love and respect for the animal kingdom, and I earned my degree in Veterinary Medicine from the University of Wisconsin – Madison. Only offer your pet fresh … Many other domestic animals also eat it, including cattle. Guinea pigs can eat spinach including leaves, baby spinach. Guinea pigs can eat almost any type of spinach including, baby spinach, raw spinach, English spinach, and water spinach. Guinea pigs can eat spinach without issue and the majority of guinea pigs do seem to enjoy the taste of spinach too. Here, you can find an article we wrote answering that commonly asked question. Now, you may have a look at the general benefits that are given by the spinach leaves. Although it may not seem like it this is proper guinea pig care. 2,813 international units (IU) of Vitamin A. Then, we can put spinach in the proper context. This site is owned and operated by Kent Garrett. Spinach also contains a lot of vitamins and minerals which will support their health. It has small leaves, a tender texture, and a sweet taste in compared to mature, fully formed spinach leaves. Care taking for our little fantastic guinea pigs can be a challenge but a very fun one at that. Coincidentally, it is another trait that humans share with guinea pigs. Although when Abyssinian guinea pigs eat spinach it helps them in many ways, you might want to investigate some other more adventurous pathways for your guinea pigs to eat. Although these pellets are nutritious, your cavies still need their occasional fruit and vegetable sustenance for their diet to be fully balanced. Its root, stem, and leaves are edible as well. Can Guinea Pigs Eat Spinach? Just keep it to once or twice a week and your Guinea Pig will be fine. Guinea pigs are vegetarians but can have different nutritional requirements to humans, which is why they should eat specially formulated guinea pig food too. 5 years ago. It makes them less fragile and less susceptible to common injuries such as fractures and breaks. Kent Garrett also participates in affiliate programs with Bluehost, Clickbank, CJ, ShareASale, and other sites. Giving them the wrong veggie can poison them and without proper treatment, they can pass away. October 19, 2017 October 17, 2017 admintag Because of the high content of oxalic acid, spinach can be given only in small amounts. Spinach contains quite a lot of calcium as well and can improve their bone structure. However, spinach leaves are high in certain compounds that could cause internal problems in … For any questions or queries, feel free to comment below. However, like many good things, there is also a limit. Table of Contents. That said though, we would not recommend that you use spinach as a staple of your guinea pigs diet and strictly only use it as a treat. They develop these types of stones because of an influx in large amounts of foods that are high in calcium. When feeding your guinea pig spinach; it resets their body and cleans out their system. We have seen how spinach is crucial, playing compelling roles in stress management, skin protection, blood clotting, cancer prevention, eye, and bone health, etc. We both have similar nutritional requirements. Is it safe for them to eat, and does it provide any health benefits? One leafy green food that guinea pigs love to munch down on and is safe for guinea pig feeding are spinach leaves. Although they love these leafy green vegetables and it should only be given in small quantities a couple of times a week due to the high level of oxalates which can contribute to bladder stones. Like people, guinea pigs can’t manufacture vitamin C on their own so they need to get it … In addition to it, you must avoid frozen spinach, because the guinea pigs have no ability to consume the frozen foods. Yes, Guinea pigs can eat spinach. Can guinea pigs eat spinach ? The vegetable’s leaves can be either ruffled or flat it changes its color as it grows older – from bright green to a strong tone of green. Can Guinea Pigs Eat Water Spinach? Guinea pigs eat spinach and also eat a wide variety of food to keep a balanced diet. For more information on benefits and nutritional value of spinach visit take a look on my manual “Before And After Getting Your Puppy“, this is a great little book to read before getting guinea pigs. Common Causes And Cures. The original diet for the cavy was and still is grass. However, only feed it once or twice a week because spinach is high in … In the beginning, their color is a bright green, as they grow older and older, they will change their color into a more intense tone of green. They also seem to eat non stop. So, when feeding guinea pigs remember it will not fulfill their sugar intake. The safety issue, therefore, boils down to the amount you feed your pet. Unfortunately, that fact doesn’t keep pups from liking the taste of spinach. This is the reason spinach can be so dangerous to Abyssinian. Abyssinian eat spinach leaves, veggies, fruit, and hay in a balanced diet. Yes, guinea pigs can eat watercress, whether it’s cooked or uncooked. Also, guinea pigs need leafy greens. It isn’t harmful if your pet eats some. They also need a good fortfied pellet w/out all the crappy colored pieces in it. Besides, they are also excellent training aids and offer more ways to bond with your beloved pet. When eaten along with foods that contain calcium, this can lead to kidney or bladder stones. As we have mentioned at the beginning about the nutritional value of spinach. Let’s delve into each one in detail. Spinach is something that you should not feed your guinea pig too often as it is a food that is high in oxalates. Raw spinach? The short answer is yes, they can. Guinea pigs are one of our favorite furry animal companions. Also, guinea pigs I mean Abyssinian or any other breed cannot have a lot of sugar in their diverse diet and that is why spinach is a great food source for. Too much of a good thing can be overwhelming to your cavy and their diet. Spinach became the original nutrient powerhouse, thanks for the likes of the familiar cartoon character, Popeye. Conclusion. Can Guinea Pigs Eat Spinach? As a treat for your guinea pig, it will help to supply your pet with the vitamins and minerals he needs to stay healthy. If you give your cavy spinach, make sure that you also offer him plenty of timothy and fresh water to help prevent the formation of oxalate crystals. Can guinea pigs eat baby spinach? Like human beings, guinea pigs are unable to produce vitamin C automatically in their body. Your guinea pigs will love all these leafy vegetables and will still have the same health benefits. Whether spinach stems are safe for Guinea Pigs to eat or not is unknown. Like us humans, guinea pigs have a diverse cuisine contrary to the popular belief of only food pellets. It becomes a problem when these compounds combine with minerals like calcium. Final Thoughts About Giving Your Pet Spinach, 9 DIY Hedgehog Cage Plans You Can Build Today (With Pictures), 7 DIY Guinea Pig Beds You Can Build Today (With Pictures), 9 DIY Hamster Toys You Can Make Today (With Pictures). As a licensed veterinarian, I have spent a considerable amount of time studying animals. In fact they love this leafy green vegetable and will consume as much of it as you give them. Despite all these negatives, guinea pigs eat spinach helping them eventually outweighing the bad for the good. Yes, but only in small amounts–just one or two small leaves, once or twice a week. Can Guinea Pigs Eat Spinach? However, we can look to nature for clues about what rodents like this one eat. Can Guinea Pigs Eat Spinach. Where do other foods like spinach fit into the picture? Let’s first state that spinach isn’t toxic outright. I recommend you to check out this great ebook, very helpful for new guinea pig owner. This includes canned spinach – it isn’t good for your pet, either. Ultimate Beginners Guide 2019, Why Do Guinea Pigs Chirp? Yes, guinea pigs can eat spinach. It offers an excellent source of dietary fiber, which guinea pigs need. They can also cause bladder and kidney stones. The reason is that neither of us can synthesize it within our bodies. With them constantly having food in their mouths they eat a lot of spinach if they have access to it.  This is the cause of the problem.  Guinea pigs were not made to handle that much calcium forcing them to get painful kidney stones. In fact, there are some health benefits, but also dangers. Overall, it is not poisonous and guinea pigs should eat spinach. In fact, spinach leaves are one of the most popular snacks for guinea pigs. If you have a guinea pig or cavy as a pet, congratulations! The question of safety is a double-edged sword when it comes to these greens and guinea pigs. Treats like this green and other foods like peppers, carrots, and celery can provide additional vitamins and minerals to ensure that your pet has a complete diet with everything he needs. Chocolate and dogs are a well-known example. However, you must avoid cooked chayote as it is terrible for our guinea pig’s health. Can guinea pigs eat spinach? However, you are going to want to limit the amount of spinach your Guinea Pig eats in one sitting and across the week (1-3 times weekly). I hope this question is now well answered, and you won’t hesitate to feed this leafy green to your guinea pigs. And based on the value, we can say that it is a lot healthy and effective for your pet. Guinea pigs enjoy refreshing foods. The spinach is also no exception in this case. We both must have foods and beverages with a high vitamin C content. Can guinea pigs eat spinach? Spinach is a leafy green vegetable that is safe for guinea pigs to eat in moderation. Source(s): https://shrink.im/a8LsV. Spinach is really good for fulfilling the needs of vitamins in a guinea pigs diet It also contains a high amount of Calcium and Oxalate, which makes them a limiting factor. When guinea pigs eat spinach leaves they are healthier, more active, and live longer. Guinea pigs can eat chayote along with their skin but only in moderation. (This guide took me 3 years to do it). Stick to the recommended serving size and remember to wash the leaves well! Your guinea pig is more than just a pet. There isn’t a wild counterpart to the domestic guinea pig. Guinea pig care is something you want to prepare for though because guinea pigs eat a lot of food. Spinach is a source of fiber which is essential for guinea pig digestion, and useful macro-nutrients like potassium and magnesium. How Spinach Can be Helpful for your Pig? Monique. These supplemental treats can provide the nutrients that feeding him timothy alone would not. While we provide information resourced and canine education, the content here is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. In fact, if only given pellets your Abyssinian or may develop health symptoms that could prove fatal later in life. Guinea pigs should eat a wide variety of fresh foods that are full of nutrition for proper guinea pig care. I hold the animal chiropractic certification from the American Veterinary Chiropractic Association. Guinea pigs often get bored with their food if their dish contains the same old pellets and veggies day after day. You can also read about kale and guinea pigs. That way, he can get the benefits of a rich source of vitamin C to keep him healthy. Spinach contains several vital nutrients that guinea pigs need, such as calcium, potassium, and vitamin A. You’re probably curious about if he can have people food like spinach. Don’t offer cooked food to your guinea pig. For your Abyssinian guinea pig care, you need to give your guinea pigs the correct guinea pig food amount. Contents show Is It Safe For Guinea Pigs To Eat Watercress? Guinea pigs eat spinach to clear out their system and help reset their digestive system. Guinea pigs eat spinach to clear out their system and help reset their digestive system. Spinach is a green, leafy vegetable that is high in nutrients and low in calories. Yes! Small quantities issued at least 1-2 times in a week will not harm. It's high in vitamin C and low in sugar - a great choice for their health, and they love the taste too. It’s a companion to love, and you can make sure that your furry friend stays happy and healthy with these top 3 guinea pig foods based on our expert reviews. Spinach contains several vital nutrients that guinea pigs need, such as calcium, potassium, and vitamin A. Most of the calories in spinach come from protein and carbohydrates. Today’s rodents eat commercial pellet diets based on timothy hay, along with the fresh stuff for use as both food and bedding. And like with people, it’s good for them. October 12, 2013 Guinea pig foods foods , swamp cabbage , water spinach Chris Perkins Water Spinach is a variety of spinach often called River spinach, Water morning glory, Water convolvulus, or by the more stranger names “Chinese spinach”, “Swamp cabbage” and “Kangkong” in Southeast Asia. Guinea pig owners know that our pets can be picky little eaters sometimes. Treats like this green and other foods like peppers, carrots , and celery can provide additional vitamins and minerals to ensure that your pet has a complete diet with everything he needs. Instead, the quandary involves the amount that you give him. You won’t get exactly the same reaction but guinea pigs can eat spinach too. Spinach is high in vitamin C and other essential nutrients, and is low in sugar. So feed your guinea pig spinach a maximum of 1-2 times a week. But watch out, because when a guinea pig eats spinach leaves, they will look very cute! Watercress is enjoyed by guinea pigs a lot, but you should feed them in moderation. Cheers! The question of whether you can give your guinea pig spinach rests on two issues. Therefore, we have to get it from our diet. In addition to hay and granulated dry food, a variety of fresh vegetables (especially leafy greens) and some fruits should be present in the guinea pig’s diet daily. These animals are not able to digest the cooked items. As an occasional treat, this green is fine for your guinea pig. Watch as they nibble on the spinach leaves and try not to fall in love. them. They are one of the sweetest and gentlest pets you can have of the rodent variety. While this is the case, you have to watch the quantity of spinach you give your guinea pigs because they contain some compounds (similar to the pear) that can pose a threat to their health. Overall, it is not poisonous and guinea pigs should eat spinach. Yes, it’s safe to feed your guinea pig spinach. Fresh spinach leaves may seem like the wonder drug for your guinea pigs, but you must be very careful with the amounts that you give it. Yes, guinea pigs love to eat and snack on spinach leaves. Therein lies the value of foods like spinach for your guinea pig. This is the state it is meant to be fed to guinea pigs. Spinach also contains vitamin K, fiber, phosphorus, and thiamine. That is why I use spinach to feed my guinea pigs once a week. The fact is, spinach stems contain a fair amount of vitamins and minerals. Guinea pigs can eat spinach in small quantities as an occasional treat. I wrote a complete guide where you can find a list of fruits and vegetables that guinea pigs can and can’t eat. However, they can only eat it in moderation. Lv 4. Guinea pigs cannot make their own vitamin C, so they must get this essential nutrient from their diets. Yes, Guinea pigs can eat spinach for sure, but the quantity served needs to be monitored. 9 DIY Hedgehog Cage Plans You Can Build Today (With Pictures) →, 7 DIY Guinea Pig Beds You Can Build Today (With Pictures) →, 9 DIY Hamster Toys You Can Make Today (With Pictures) →. The main type of kidney stone guinea pigs suffer from are calcium stones. And while this “super green” is loaded with healthy vitamins and minerals, it shouldn’t be everyday food for cavies. Abyssinian Guinea pig feeding is not the most complicated thing to do especially if you have experience in guinea pig care. Due to the large amounts of food that guinea pigs devour; they usually are constantly eating. I have always had a deep love and respect for the animal kingdom, and I earned my degree in Veterinary Medicine from the University of Wisconsin. Yes, baby guinea pigs can eat spinach. Sometimes the medicine guinea pigs need might not work the first time around causing you to pay more. For proper guinea pig feeding and guinea pig care, you cannot give them more than a few leaves a week or else it could give them painful kidney stones that could prove fatal. The Reason Behind Those Funny Noises, Reasons Why Guinea Pigs Bite Each Other: Solutions, Rapid Weight Loss In Guinea pigs – Causes, Treatment, Diet, Do Guinea Pigs Smell? Guinea pigs can eat spinach and you can make it as an alternative for hay. Here’s a quick answer to the question asked earlier: guinea pigs can eat spinach. I also completed my Bachelor of Science in biomedical science at Auckland University. It turns out that this green, like other foods like blackberries, potatoes, and beets, has high amounts of oxalates or oxalic acid in them. Many sources suggest not to feed stems to your Guinea pigs. Guinea pigs can eat baby spinach and it is very popular, but only in small amounts because of its high calcium content. The spinach that is cooked is never suggested for your guinea pigs. It lives up to that assessment to this day. But spinach also contains large amounts of calcium, which causes bladder stones in guinea pigs if they consume too much. It contains oxalates and high amounts of calcium, which can cause bladder stones. The fascinating thing about guinea pigs, in general, is how alike they are with people. When guinea pigs eat fresh fruit or vegetables, they are on the way to a correct guinea pig diet. (Who could have guessed.) The result is the formation of crystals, which can damage the GI tract of cavies. This is why external vitamin C booster can help them a lot. Nutrition. For cavies, it tastes amazing to be able to eat fresh spinach, although many small children would love to disagree. While feeding your guinea pigs spinach just remember to use small amounts about a week at a time. Guinea pigs can eat spinach which includes baby spinach and the larger leaves too. They also respond well to human contact and handling. Spinach is high in several vitamins, especially vitamin C which is so important for guinea pigs. Can Guinea Pigs Eat Red, Orange, Green Peppers? Guinea pigs eat spinach and also eat a wide variety of food to keep a balanced diet. Kent Garrett is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Usually becoming a five-star rated meal for guinea pigs after the first bite, spinach has many vitamins needed to support a diet for a full growing fluff ball. Yes, guinea pigs can eat spinach. Spinach contains more beneficial elements than harmful elements for cavies. No. Providing an unlimited supply is essential for the health of your pet. No. Yes, guinea pigs can eat spinach for sure. While feeding your guinea pigs spinach just remember to use small amounts about a week at a time. You probably know that there are some foods which people can eat but are poisonous for pets. Spinach packs high amounts of vitamin C, carotenoids, vitamin K, folic acid, iron, and calcium. An avid animal lover, Roland started this blog to help all varieties of pets and their owners on their journey to living their best lives. Go ahead and read it to see what foods can kill your guinea pig pet. I keep guinea pigs, parakeets, and dogs. Can guinea pigs eat spinach? Guinea Pigs can eat spinach; it is perfectly safe to feed. English spinach? 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