Guinea pig nutrition

Abstract

The majority of disease processes that are see in guinea pigs are not infectious, but are in some way related to poor husbandry or nutrition. A clear understanding of the correct principles of nutrition helps veterinary practitioners understand how problems may have developed, and veterinary nurses can play an invaluable role in informing owners how to correct the diet, and how to use diet to solve problems and aid recovery. The single most important principle of nutrition is that the guinea pig has a daily requirement for vitamin C, as it cannot synthesize this vitamin itself, and sub-clinical vitamin C deficiency is a common predisposing factor for most other diseases. Guinea pigs spend most of their waking moments eating, and even short periods of anorexia (12–24 hours) can trigger them to break down their body fat to produce ketones as an alternative energy source, leading to the development of ketoacidosis which will be fatal. Any anorexic guinea pig should be given an emergency appointment. Knowledge of syringe feeding and nursing of anorexic guinea pigs is an invaluable tool for veterinary nurses.