Guinea pigs shouldn’t eat alfalfa, which is high in calcium and protein. Only occasionally treat pregnant or nursing guinea pigs with it.
Guinea pigs eat timothy or orchard grass hay. For pregnant or nursing guinea pigs or those under six months old, offer alfalfa hay in addition to grass.
Some say alfalfa is safe for young, pregnant, and nursing guinea pigs who need calcium. Adult guinea pigs should only eat grass occasionally. Timothy hay and orchard grass are suggested for guinea pigs because they provide fiber without excess calcium and protein.
Guinea pigs need vitamin C because they cannot make it. Therefore, eat a range of fresh vegetables and fruits in moderation. Fruits are rich in sugar and can make guinea pigs obese and sick.
As a guinea pig owner, I give my pigs alfalfa hay as a gift, mostly Timothy hay. I feed them fresh veggies for vitamins and minerals like bell peppers, carrots, and cucumbers.
Finally, guinea pigs can eat hay, but not regularly. Along with hay, fresh veggies, and fruits should be offered in moderation. As a responsible guinea pig owner, you must watch their diet to ensure their health and well-being.
High in Calcium
Alfalfa has long been fed to livestock. Due to its high vitamin, mineral, and protein content, it makes a great nutritional supplement.
It contains high-quality Vitamin K, essential for blood clotting. Iron, chlorophyll, and antioxidants may help fight heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and more.
Soaking raw sprouted alfalfa seeds in water improves nutrition and digestion. This process releases many digestive-health-boosting vitamins and minerals.
Seeds contain calcium, phosphorus, and potassium, which promote regular bowel movements. These nutrients also strengthen bones, preventing osteoporosis.
High in Protein
Alfalfa, also known as buffalo herb, lucerne, or Medicago sativa, is an edible plant rich in protein, nutrients, and vitamins that can be taken as a nutritional supplement to promote healthy diets and treat certain medical conditions.
High-quality, low-calorie food lowers blood pressure, improves digestion, and prevents heart disease. It contains vitamin K and antioxidants.
The fiber in alfalfa sprouts may regulate blood sugar and prevent obesity. They flavor salads, smoothies, and other foods.
Enzymes in sprouts break down carbohydrates, starch, sugar, and fat to feed gut bacteria and strengthen digestion. IBS and inflammatory bowel disease can benefit from this.
Rich in Nutrients
Alfalfa (Medicago sativa) is a nutrient-rich superfood that can lower blood sugar, improve digestion, and boost immunity. It contains antioxidants and phytochemicals like lutein, beta-carotene, and flavonoids for added benefits!
Alfalfa also contains potassium, a diuretic that reduces swelling and water retention. Potassium reduces gas and bloating, helping constipation.
It also provides heart- and immune-boosting minerals and vitamins. It also contains vitamin K and iron, which aid blood clotting.
However, young children, older adults, pregnant women, and those with compromised immune systems should not take alfalfa. Before taking any supplement, including alfalfa, consult a doctor.
Potential Health Risks
Alfalfa hay is great for pregnant or nursing guinea pigs. Hay boosts their weight and tooth growth with calcium and protein.
Alfalfa hay is high in calcium, which can cause bladder sludge in adult guinea pigs and stones in younger ones. It should be given moderately.
To keep your guinea pig healthy, always provide a variety of grass hay.
Avoid grain-based kibbles and pellets. These are too heavy for guinea pigs, hard to digest, and full of sugar and preservatives. Avoid foods that cause gastrointestinal stasis, which causes your pig to stop eating and not poop for 12–24 hours.
