If you’re planning on sharing your leftover mashed potatoes with your guinea pigs, think again.
Guinea pigs are tiny little creatures with a delicate digestive system. And all sorts of food doesn’t agree with them.
So, the answer to the question, can guinea pigs eat potatoes, would be an astounding no.
Guinea Pigs cannot eat potatoes!
Your guinea pigs may have nibbled on a slice of potato you offered before reading this article.
But it doesn’t mean it’s good for them.
Green and sprouted potatoes, to be more specific, are harmful to your little ones.
Why aren’t potatoes suitable for guinea pigs?
Potatoes are a rich source of carbohydrate, which isn’t beneficial in any way.
Carbohydrates add fat to the diet and nothing more.
In the wild, guinea pigs dig holes underground to nest in. They get a lot of exercises doing so.
Your piggies, on the other hand, doesn’t have to. So, the added carbs in their diet will only make them gain weight.
Moreover,
Potatoes contain harmful toxins that are poisonous to guinea pigs. It makes them sick and causes indigestion.
If your guinea pigs have eaten potatoes accidentally, check for loose stool and dormant behavior.
If you notice any change, take him/her to the vet immediately to get tested and treated.
Can my guinea pigs eat potato peels?
Potato peels contain the same toxic compounds as the potato itself.
So, it is not recommended to give potato peels to your guinea pigs.
Should I give yams to my guinea pigs?
Yams, in the winter, makes the best side dish to go with a Thanksgiving turkey.
They are rich in vitamin C, which helps strengthen the immune system. And they add great texture and taste.
Unlike potatoes, yams are suitable for your guinea pigs.
Once or twice a week, you can give chopped up slices of raw yams as treats.
It should bring a variation in your guinea pig’s diet and add nutritional value to it.
Yam leaves are great for your piggies as well. It can be a daily food source for them.
Can my guinea pigs eat sweet potatoes?
Sweet potatoes can be a once or twice in a month thing for your guinea pigs.
Starch, sugar, and oxalate acids aren’t suitable for your furry friend’s diet.
Sweet potatoes contain a little bit of starch and oxalate acid. However, they have a much higher reserve of vitamin C.
Now, I cannot stress the importance of vitamin C in the diet.
It helps improve the immune system, fastens the healing process, and works as an antibiotic.
According to experts, raw slices of sweet potatoes have a more positive effect on guinea pigs than negative.
But it should be moderated to a minimum.
Guinea pigs are sensitive and quite picky when it comes to food.
If you’re introducing yams and sweet potatoes into their diet, do so moderately.
Observe your pet’s behavior and droppings for any change. It is best to consult a vet before setting up a diet plan for your loved ones.
After all, a healthy pet is a happy pet. And a happy pet makes a happy owner.
