What is Vitamin C and why do guinea pigs need it?
Vitamin C (also called ascorbic acid) is an essential nutrient for guinea pigs.
Unlike humans and other animals, guinea pigs cannot produce their own vitamin C. They must get it through their diet.
Vitamin C is so important for guinea pigs!
It helps to maintain healthy skin, bones, and teeth.
It also plays a key role in the functioning of the immune system and helps to prevent scurvy – a disease that can be fatal to guinea pigs.
How Much Vitamin C do Guinea Pigs Need?
Guinea pigs require a daily intake of between 25-50mg of vitamin C per kilogram (kg) of body weight.
So an average adult guinea pig weighing 1kg will need between 25-50mg of vitamin C each day.
Guinea pigs who are pregnant, nursing, or recovering from an illness can require higher doses of vitamin C to maintain their health. Always check with your exotics vet.
Some good sources of vitamin C for guinea pigs include:
- Kale
- Broccoli
- Brussels sprouts
- Bell peppers
- Strawberries
- Oranges
Remember:
Guinea pigs can not store vitamin C in their bodies so they need to eat some of these foods each day.
Here’s an example of a simple vitamin C diet (but remember variety is the spice of life, so mix it up regularly):
| Fruit or Vegetable | Amount of Vitamin C (per 100g) |
|---|---|
| Kiwi fruit | 92mg |
| Red pepper | 80mg |
| Broccoli | 89mg |
So what happens when a guinea pig isn’t getting enough vitamin C?
Vitamin C deficiency is real. These are the signs to look out for:
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Swollen joints
- Skin problems
- Bleeding gums
Guinea pigs who have been rescued from neglectful circumstances are often showing signs of vitamin C deficiency due to the lack of appropriate diet. It goes without saying that a guinea pig in poor health should be seen by a vet, first and foremost.
Here’s a tip for getting the most vitamin C bang for your buck in your guinea pig’s food:
Store the food properly to prevent the loss of vitamin C. Vitamin C is sensitive to light and heat so keep in a cool spot away from direct sunlight.
What about vitmain C supplements for guinea pigs?
Some people try to supplement their guinea pig’s diet with vitamin C tablets or drops. But once again I can’t overstate that it’s so important to consult with a veterinarian before giving any supplements to your guinea pig. Excessive amounts of vitamin C can be harmful.
There are a few types of vitamin C supplements available for guinea pigs –
- Vitamin C tablets: These are the most common type of vitamin C supplement for guinea pigs. They can be crushed and mixed with food or water, or given directly.
- Vitamin C drops: These are liquid supplements that can be added to the guinea pig’s water bottle. But it’s important to ensure that your guinea pig is drinking enough water to receive the full daily dosage.
- Vitamin C powders: These can be mixed with food or water. Again, enough of the food or water needs to be consumed to receive the full dosage.
