Can Guinea Pigs Eat Arugula? (Risks & Benefits)

Yes, guinea pigs can eat arugula but in moderation. Rich in the wide variety of nutrients the guinea pigs require, you can add arugula to the diet in decent amounts. Excessive intake can be dangerous, so knowing how to design a balanced diet is crucial. 

Do Guinea Pigs Like Arugula?

Guinea pigs love to eat arugula. It has a strong and peppery taste which guinea pigs appreciate. But few might not like it at all. So, start with just one piece of arugula and see how guinea pigs respond before adding it to their diet. 

How Much Arugula Can A Guinea Pig Eat?

Guinea pigs need to have a variety in their diet to gain all the nutrients they need. So, when you are feeding arugula to guinea pigs, here are a few things to know:

• Avoid for babies
• Feed 2-3 leaves to adult ones

You should restrict feeding once or twice a week only. 

How To Introduce Arugula To Guinea Pigs?

Introducing arugula to guinea pigs should be done properly. Start with offering just a single leaf and observe them for 12 hours. In case of bloating, indigestion, or diarrhea, avoid feeding. If everything is fine, you can continue to feed arugula to guinea pigs. 

How Often Can You Feed Arugula To Guinea Pig?

Guinea pigs prefer to have green leafy veggies in their diet. Arugula is full of vitamins and minerals but is also high in calcium. You can feed 2-3 leaves limited to just once or twice a week to gain the maximum benefit. Avoid overfeeding as this can be really harmful. 

Is Arugula Safe And Healthy For Guinea Pigs?

Yes, it is safe and healthy to feed arugula to the guinea pig. Arugula is rich in Vitamin A, Vitamin K, Iron, and Vitamin C, which is a must for a healthy diet. But it is also rich in calcium which can be harmful to them. Feeding arugula in limits is the best way to keep guinea pigs safe and healthy. 

What All Nutrients Do Guinea Pigs Get From Arugula?

The nutrients guinea pigs gain from arugula are as below:

• Vitamin C for immunity
• Vitamin A for eyesight
• Vitamin K for better recovery
• Fiber for the digestive system
• Vitamin B for RBC
• Foliate for energy
• Iron and potassium for cardiac muscles
• Magnesium for muscle health
• Carbohydrates and fats for balanced weight

Can Guinea Pigs Have Arugula Daily? 

No, guinea pigs cannot have arugula daily. Though it is full of nutritional value, excessive feeding has its own side effects. So avoid feeding arugula to guinea pigs daily. The best way is to feed them 2-3 leaves once or twice a week. This way, a guinea pig can have the best nutritional value. 

Can Guinea Pigs Have Cooked Arugula?

No, guinea pigs cannot have cooked arugula. Cooked food loses most of the guinea pigs’ nutrients, so it is best to serve raw. You can either mix it with other vegetables or serve them alone; either way is great. 

What Are The Health Benefits Of Feeding Arugula To Guinea Pigs?

Feeding arugula has many benefits based on nutritional value for the guinea pigs. The main health benefits that are obtained include the following:

• Improves vision
• Assists in quick recovery
• Prevents various diseases
• Provides energy
• Reduces risk of obesity
• Keeps cardiovascular system healthy

What Are The Hazards Of Feeding Arugula To Guinea Pigs?

Yes, there are a few hazards of feeding arugula to guinea pigs. The risks are linked to excessive feeding. The most common ones are:

• High calcium causes bladder and urinary issues
• Digestion problems like stomach pains, diarrhea, bloat, gases, and others
• Can cause kidney stones

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Guinea pigs are a great friend to have. They have quite simple food needs and nutritional requirements. Feeding them arugula is beneficial but in moderation. Keep an eye on their health and regulate their diet timely to offer them the best health benefits.