Guinea pigs are interesting creatures that can be found in many homes.
They have unique needs that must be met in order to ensure they live healthy and happy life.
One of the most important things for guinea pigs is their diet.
They need fresh vegetables daily, and it can become expensive to buy these veggies in the supermarket.
However, if you have the time to forage, there is lots of free food available that your guinea pigs can eat to be found in fields, meadows, hedgerows and woodlands and even your own garden.
In this article we will explore what wild plants guinea pigs can eat and where you can find them.
What Wild Plants Can I Feed To My Guinea Pigs?
The wild plants that guinea pigs can eat are numerous. Here is a list of some of the most common plants they can safely feed upon:
Dandelion
Dandelions can be commonly found around meadows, lawns, and gardens.
Not only do guinea pigs love the taste of dandelion, but it is also a great source of Vitamin A and C.
Grass
Grass is another safe plant option for guinea pigs and can be easily found in most gardens.
It’s best to offer them fresh grass as it’s packed with nutrients and minerals that are essential for your guinea pig’s health.
Clover
Clover is a fantastic source of Vitamin A and C, but also provides protein and calcium which are vital for growth.
You can find clover in most meadows and lawns.
Nettle
Nettle is usually found in woodlands and hedgerows.
Although it can sting if touched, guinea pigs have no problem eating them.
They are packed with protein and will give your pet lots of energy.
Plantain
This is a common weed and can be found in grassy areas, often near the sides of paths.
Guinea pigs love to eat both the leaves and flowers of this plant.
Wild carrot
Tops are a delicious addition to your guinea pig’s diet.
They can be found in meadows, fields, and hedgerows.
Make sure to pick only the tops and not the roots.
Chicory
Chicory is a popular choice for piggies, and can be found in many areas.
It is easy to spot due to its sky-blue flowers.
It has a zesty flavour that your piggy will love!
Dead nettles
Dead nettles is one of the most potent and nutrition-packed plant you can offer your guinea pigs.
This plant is easily recognizable with its lance-shaped leaves, white or pinkish flowers, and nettle-like texture.
It is abundant in meadows, pastures, hedgerows and roadsides.
Just make sure to pick it away from busy roads and areas where pollutants may be present.
Dock Leaves
Dock leaves are an excellent source of vitamins A and C, iron, calcium and phosphorus, which are important for your guinea pig’s health.
It is easily recognizable with its large rounded leaves that are either green or purple in color.
The flowerheads have clusters of small greenish flowers, which turn into fluffy seed heads.
It is usually found near water sources such as ponds and rivers in fields and meadows.
Ground Ivy
Ground Ivy is another great source of vitamins and minerals for your guinea pig.
It has a creeping habit and its leaves are kidney-shaped with scalloped edges.
The flowers are purple-blue in color and have an unmistakable strong scent.
It is commonly found in grassy areas, hedgerows, woodlands, fields, gardens and roadsides.
Yarrow
Yarrow is a versatile plant with needle-like leaves and a flat, white to pink flower cluster.
It is an abundant source of vitamin C and other minerals that are essential for your guinea pig’s health.
Yarrow is usually found in woodland, hedgerows, waste ground, grassy areas and roadsides.
Common Groundsel
Common Groundsel is a type of weed that can be found in grassy areas, wastelands and cultivated ground.
It has small yellow flowers which form an umbel shape at the top of its stem.
Its leaves are deeply divided and lacy-looking. Common groundsel contains vitamins A, B, C and K as well as iron and calcium, making it an excellent food for your guinea pig.
Ragwort is a poisonous plant that looks like common groundsel, but it has a different Smell and leaves. So be sure to identify the plant before feeding them to your guinea pigs.
Chickweed
Chickweed is a small green plant with white flowers.
It is often found in cultivated and uncultivated areas, such as lawns, gardens, fields and hedgerows.
Chickweed leaves are soft and succulent, which makes them an ideal snack for your guinea pig.
It contains vitamin C and other minerals that will help to keep your pet healthy and strong.
Shepherds Purse
Shepherd’s purse is a small leafy plant with a distinctive white, heart-shaped seedpod.
It can be found in many areas such as lawns, gardens, fields and hedgerows.
Shepherd’s purse contains calcium and other minerals which are essential for your guinea pig’s health.
Apple and Pear Leaves and Twigs
Apple and pear leaves and twigs are a great source of nutrition for your guinea pig.
They provide vitamins A, C, E, K as well as minerals such as magnesium and calcium.
Apple and pear trees can be found in woodlands, hedgerows, gardens and orchards.
Always make sure to pick them away from busy roads and areas where pollutants may be present.
Coltsfoot (Leaves Only)
Clotsfoot is a type of grass that can be found in meadows, lawns, fields and hedgerows.
Its leaves are soft and juicy which makes them the perfect snack for your guinea pig.
It also contains vitamins A, C, E, K as well as calcium, iron and phosphorus, which are important for your pet’s health.
Just make sure to pick it away from busy roads and areas where pollutants may be present.
It is important to make sure that any wild plants you give your guinea pig are free from pesticides, fertilizers and other chemicals. Always check with experts if you’re in doubt and be careful when foraging near busy roads or areas where dogs have been.
Where Can I Find The Plants For My Guinea Pig?
The best places to look for wild plants for your guinea pig are meadows, fields, hedgerows and woodlands.
If you have a garden then this is also a great place to find these tasty treats.
Be sure to look out for any signs of disease or pests that may have infected the plants before giving them to your guinea pig.
Foraging is a great way to get fresh, nutritious food for your guinea pigs and it can also be a fun activity that the whole family can enjoy.
With just a little bit of knowledge, you can find plenty of free food for your furry friends!
What are The Things Should Consider Before Feeding Wild Plants To My Guinea Pig?
Some points to remember before foraging your guinea pigs are
- Check that the plants aren’t in an area where pesticides have been used or are likely to be used.
- Avoid areas near busy roads, as these can often contain pollutants that may harm your guinea pig.
- Look out for signs of disease and pests on the plants before giving them to your pet.
- Check with experts if you’re unsure about a particular plant before giving it to your guinea pig.
- Only pick from areas where animals are not allowed, such as public parks or private gardens.
- Use younger leaves, as these will be more tender and easier for your guinea pig to digest.
- Avoid places where there may be faeces from dogs, cats or livestock.
By following these simple tips and being mindful of the plants you choose, you can provide your guinea pigs with lots of free and nutritious food!
Final Thought
Foraging for wild plants is a great way to provide your guinea pigs with fresh and nutritious food. With just a little bit of knowledge, you can find plenty of tasty treats that are free and good for their health. Always be sure to check with experts before giving any wild plants to your pet and remember to stay safe when foraging in the outdoors. In Addition, as an alternative for wild plants, they can eat some indoor plants such as spider plants.
Happy Petting!