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Can Guinea Pigs Eat Parsley? What You Need To Know!

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Parsley is a staple in kitchens the world over. It is rich in essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamins A, B, C, as well as potassium and various flavonoids.

As a guinea pig owner, it might have crossed your mind to feed parsley to your piggy so they, too, can enjoy those benefits. But would it be a good idea to feed parsley to guinea pigs?

Yes, guinea pigs can eat parsley, and it would be a great idea to feed this herb to your pet occasionally since it contains nutrients that are essential to guinea pigs. However, the keyword is “occasionally,” as too much parsley can damage a guinea pig’s health. Here is everything you need to know about guinea pigs and parsley.divider-guineapig

Benefits of Feeding Parsley to Guinea Pigs

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Credit: Margoya, Shutterstock
Parsley is packed with nutrients that are highly beneficial to guinea pigs. They include:
  • Vitamin A

A guinea pig’s eyesight degenerates as the animal ages. Fortunately, you can help them hold onto their healthy vision for longer by giving them foods that are rich in vitamin A. This vitamin also promotes the proper functioning of the heart, kidneys, and liver.

  • Vitamin C

Like humans, guinea pigs cannot synthesize vitamin C. As a result, they are highly susceptible to diseases resulting from a vitamin C deficiency, such as scurvy. Vitamin C also fortifies the immune system, boosting a guinea pig’s resistance to diseases.

  • Vitamin K

This vitamin promotes faster wound healing by enhancing the rate of blood clotting. Therefore, feeding parsley to your piggy will help them recover faster from injuries.

  • Calcium

Parsley is incredibly rich in calcium, which is vital in the development of healthier teeth and bones. As you already know, the incisors of a guinea pig never stop growing, meaning this animal needs lots of calcium to sustain that growth.

  • Antioxidants

As mentioned, parsley is rich in flavonoids, as well as other antioxidants. Like vitamin C, antioxidants also strengthen the immune system.

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When is Parsley Bad for Guinea Pigs?

While parsley is great for guinea pigs, feeding too much of this herb to a guinea pig can be detrimental to the animal’s health.

The main reason why too much parsley is hazardous to guinea pigs is its high oxalic acid levels.

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Credit: maxmann, Pixabay
In excess, oxalic acid can result in the following health issues:
  • Renal system failure
  • Stone formation
  • Diarrhea

Therefore, to avoid those issues, regulate the amount of parsley you feed your guinea pig. Experts recommend feeding between 5 and 10 parsley sprigs at a time. Never exceed that quantity. When it comes to the ideal number of times you can feed this herb to your piggy, consider keeping it between 2 and 3 times per week.

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Image Credit: Piqsels

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Wrapping Up

Parsley is one of the most nutritious herbs in the world. It is laden with a host of minerals and vitamins that are invaluable towards promoting better health. Fortunately, guinea pigs can also eat this herb and enjoy the same benefits. However, moderation is key, as too much parsley can be hazardous to guinea pigs.

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Featured image credit: tegrafik, Pixabay

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