A guinea pig’s main diet consists of mostly hay, 1/8th cup of pellets, a cup of vegetables and the occasional fruity treat. The big question is: Can your guinea pig eat watermelon, and how much?
Can Guinea Pigs eat watermelon?
Guinea pigs can definitely eat watermelon, in fact most guinea pigs LOVE watermelon, but it has to be fed in moderation.
Just like any other fruit, watermelon is high in sugar and should only be given once a week. It also contains Vitamin C which is a very important part in a guinea pig’s diet to prevent scurvy.
How much watermelon should a guinea pig eat?
A guinea pig should only eat about 1/4 to 1/2 cup of fresh veggies and fruit a day in total.
Watermelon in moderation means 1 or 2 x inch cubes, once or twice a week only.
Can guinea pigs eat watermelon seeds?
Do not feed your guinea pig watermelon seeds. Make sure you remove all the seeds before serving your guinea pig any watermelon.
All seeds are a potential choking hazard to guinea pigs, especially the slippery seeds of a watermelon. These seeds are exactly the size that can easily get lodged in your guinea pig’s throat and cause them to choke.
Can guinea pigs eat watermelon rind?
Watermelon rind can be served to your guinea pig. They can safely eat the white fleshy part as well as the harder green outer layer. Just remember to wash it thoroughly.
Can a guinea pig drink watermelon juice?
You should not offer watermelon or any juice to a guinea pig. Juices are too high in sugar, which is not good for your piggy. Too much sugar can cause diarrhea, obesity and other health problems.
Do guinea pigs like watermelon?
Most guinea pigs LOVE watermelon, while others just don’t like it.
It is best to offer a cube of watermelon to your guinea pig and observe. If they eat it, great, they can have up to 2 cubes a week. If they don’t eat it, that’s ok too, offer them something else that they do like.
Can watermelon be harmful to guinea pigs?
Too much watermelon can cause health problems, like gas, bloating, diarrhea and obesity. This can lead to dehydration and can cause a medical emergency.
Can guinea pigs eat yellow watermelon?
Guinea pigs can eat yellow watermelon, but only in moderation. Yellow watermelon is sweeter than the normal red variant, so only serve 1 small cube a week.
How to serve watermelon to guinea pigs?
- Only serve fresh watermelon at room temperature.
- Cut a few 1 inch cubes of watermelon.
- Remove all the seeds.
- Serve 1 or 2 cubes per guinea pig.
- Watch them enjoy it.
Conclusion
Watermelon is considered a fruity treat for guinea pigs and should only be served in moderation once or twice a week.
