Use alfalfa-based pellets for guinea pigs under 6-months-old and timothy based pellets for older guinea pigs. Pellets with treats inside shouldn’t be bought even if your guinea pig enjoys it. Often the guinea pig will go more for the treats rather than the nutritional pellet.
Alfalfa hay should not be used as their main source of hay due to its high calcium content. It can be given as an occasional treat, but should not replace a healthier hay like timothy hay.
Some other safe and healthy vegetable options include: Kale, romaine lettuce, carrots, spinach, parsley and cilantro.
For a more detailed list, guinea pigs cannot eat: avocado, potatoes, rhubarb, onion, raw kidney beans, spicy peppers, cabbage (unless limited), cauliflower (unless limited), seeds, nuts, wild mushrooms, wild berries (commercial sold are okay), bread, biscuits, sweets/candies, cereals, yogurt, cheese and most house plants. Do not give your guinea pig grass or lawn clippings. Grass can only be given if you are certain it isn’t treated with pesticides or a dog hasn’t urinated on it. Do not add vitamin C to your guinea pigs water. They should get their vitamins naturally as artificially adding it to their water will make them not want to drink.
Alternately you can cut some grass and chuck it in your guinea pigs cage. Do not replace hay for grass.
Limit your treats, however, as they can be detrimental to your guinea pigs health and weight.
