Pet Keen is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more.

Home > Guinea Pigs > Can Guinea Pigs Eat Plums? Nutrition & Safety Facts

Can Guinea Pigs Eat Plums? Nutrition & Safety Facts

Can Guinea Pigs Eat Plums

If you’re curious about whether guinea pigs can eat plums, the short answer is yes, they can. However, you should keep in mind that the plum is a sweet fruit. That means your guinea pig will need to consume extra water to help their body process it.

Plums are a good source of fiber and vitamins A and C. When feeding plums to your guinea pig, be sure to remove the pit and stem. You’ll also need to cut the fruit into small pieces to avoid it becoming a choking hazard.

divider-guineapig

Are Plums Safe for Guinea Pigs?

As long as the plum is pitted and doesn’t have any added sugar, your guinea pig can enjoy a small slice of this fruit as a treat. Like with any new food, though, introduce plums to your guinea pig slowly to avoid upsetting their stomach. Start with a small piece of plum, and watch your guinea pig for any signs of digestive distress. If all goes well, you can offer additional pieces of plum as part of a healthy diet.

How Many Plums Should a Guinea Pig Eat?

While plums are not toxic to guinea pigs, they should only be given in moderation due to their high sugar content. Half or even just a quarter of a single plum will be more than enough for one guinea pig. Be sure to remove the pit and stem before feeding your guinea pig the fruit.

What Other Foods Can Guinea Pigs Eat?

Guinea pigs can safely eat several kinds of fruits and vegetables, including apples, bananas, carrots, celery, and green beans.

These critters are herbivores, so their diet should consist mostly of hay, fresh vegetables, and a small number of pellets. However, they can still enjoy the occasional treat! Here are a few ideas for safe, healthy snacks for your guinea pig:

  • A slice of fresh fruit or vegetables, like carrots, apples, or cucumbers
  • A small handful of pellets
  • A tiny bit of yogurt
  • A lick of honey

As you can see, there are many options for safe, healthy snacks for guinea pigs. Just be sure to avoid giving them too many sugary or fatty foods, as these can cause health problems later.

close up of a brown and white guinea pig
Image Credit: rubyclement, Pixabay

A Healthy Guinea Pig Diet

As any pet owner knows, a healthy diet is essential to an animal’s well-being. When it comes to guinea pigs, there are a few things to keep in mind in order to ensure that your furry friend stays healthy and happy.

A critical component of a guinea pig’s diet is hay. It provides essential nutrients, like fiber, and helps keep their digestive system functioning properly. A good rule of thumb is to offer your guinea pig about 1–2 cups of hay daily.

In addition to hay, fresh vegetables should be included in a guinea pig’s diet. Vegetables like carrots, broccoli, and spinach are all excellent choices. Be sure to wash the vegetables thoroughly before feeding them to your guinea pig, to remove any potential toxins or pesticides.

Finally, a small amount of fruit can also be offered as a treat. While most fruits are safe for guinea pigs to eat, avoid giving them grapes or raisins, as these can cause digestive problems.

If you’re ever unsure about what you can and can’t feed your guinea pig, it’s always best to consult with a veterinarian to get the most accurate information.

divider-guineapig

Final Thoughts

So, can guinea pigs eat plums? Yes, they can! In fact, plums are a great source of vitamins and minerals for your guinea pig. Just make sure to remove the pit and stem before feeding them to your guinea pig. You can offer many fresh fruits and vegetables in moderation as part of a well-balanced diet.

Related Reads:


Featured Image Credit: Rebecca Matthews, Unsplash

Our vets

Want to talk to a vet online?

Whether you have concerns about your dog, cat, or other pet, trained vets have the answers!

Our vets