One of the most common questions asked by guinea pig owners is: can guinea pigs eat oranges? If you want to find out the answer, along with other important information about guinea pigs and oranges, continue reading this guide.
Is It Safe for Guinea Pigs to Eat Oranges?
Yes, it is safe for guinea pigs to eat oranges. Oranges are not toxic to guinea pigs (Food Can Kill your guinea pig). However, guinea pigs should only consume oranges within moderation.
Now that you know the answer to the question “can guinea pigs eat oranges?” you should continue reading to find out more about how to safely feed your guinea pig oranges.
Nutrition facts
According to Healthline, nutrients in about half of a large orange (100 grams) is:
- Calories: 47
- Water: 87%
- Protein: 0.9 grams
- Carbs: 11.8 grams
- Sugar: 9.4 grams
- Fiber: 2.4 grams
- Fat: 0.1 grams
Serving Sizes and Frequency
It is safe for guinea pigs to eat oranges, but owners should note that oranges must be consumed in moderation in order to prevent certain health risks.
The orange serving size for guinea pigs is one or two slices; the frequency should be limited to twice per week. If your guinea pig has too many oranges, they are at a higher risk for certain types of urinary tract issues, as well as digestive problems due to excess sugar.
Oranges and Guinea Pig Nutrition
Oranges have several notable nutritional benefits for guinea pigs. Some of the most notable nutritional benefits are due to the presence of potassium, magnesium, and relatively low fat in oranges.
These all contribute to a healthier cardiovascular system when consumed regularly in moderation. Oranges also have plenty of Vitamin C, which will help you ensure that your guinea pig gets enough of this essential vitamin in their diet.
Oranges are also relatively low in calories while providing a good amount of energy for guinea pigs.
Notes on Feeding Guinea Pigs Oranges
The following are some notes you should consider when feeding your guinea pig orange slices.
Always thoroughly wash the orange before slicing it up
It is not recommended that you feed your guinea pig orange peels, but you should still wash the entire orange thoroughly before slicing it up for your pet.
Washing can remove dirt, bacteria, and trace amounts of pesticides before you slice the orange; if you cut the orange without washing it, bacteria could get from the peel into the “meat” of the orange that your pet will consume.
Do not feed your guinea pigs canned oranges or seeds
Never feed your guinea pig canned or preserved oranges, as these are very high in sugar, sodium, and other preservatives. Remove any seeds from the orange before giving it to your pet, as they are a choking hazard.
Only give your guinea pig ripe oranges
Do not feed your guinea pig under-ripe or rotten oranges. Under-ripe oranges will be acidic and bitter, whereas rotten oranges will make your guinea pig sick. As a general rule, only feed your guinea pig oranges that you would enjoy eating.
Remember to keep the above guidelines in mind when feeding your guinea pig oranges.
Lydia King is a huge animal lover and has always been fascinated with learning about the animal kingdom. She enjoys writing about anything animal related from scientific information about rare species to animal references in pop culture.
