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Yes! Not only can guinea pigs eat dill, but this nutritionally packed herb makes for a great addition to their diet. Dill contains no sugar, it’s rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, and Iron.
However, it is also high in calcium and phosphorus, so you should only feed it to them in moderation. In this article, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about safely feeding dill to your guinea pig, including which parts of the plant they can eat, and how best to serve it up!
How Often Should a Guinea Pig Eat Dill?
Dill is an excellent source of fiber, vitamins, and essential minerals for your guinea pig. Crucially, dill contains vitamin C, an essential vitamin that guinea pigs cannot produce for themselves.
However, dill contains a high calcium and phosphorus content. Excess calcium in a guinea pig’s diet can lead to calcium deposits (kidney stones) forming in its bladder and kidneys. Excess phosphorus can cause softening of a guinea pig’s bones and jaw, leading to dental diseases.
To avoid health issues, it’s important not to exceed the recommended amount.
You can safely feed a few sprigs of dill to your guinea pig two or three times per week as part of their fresh green leaves and vegetable portion.
What Part of Dill Can Guinea Pigs Eat?
Guinea pigs can eat dill leaves and stems. If your guinea pig hasn’t tried it before, try to offer them a small sprig and see how they react. A few days later, you can offer them a little more.
Remember, dill should make up a part of your guinea pig’s fresh green leaves and vegetables portion. For a balanced diet, remember to include leaves and vegetables such as broccoli, kale, and lettuce.
Can Guinea Pigs Eat Dried Dill?
You shouldn’t feed your guinea pig dried dill. As herbs go through the dehydration process, they lose much of the nutritional benefits they offer when fresh, so they wouldn’t do your pet any good.
When choosing herbs, green leaves, and vegetables for your guinea pig, the freshest options are going to be the healthiest.
What Other Herbs Are Good for Guinea Pigs?
There are plenty of safe and nutritious herb and green leaf options available to your guinea pig, including:
- Parsley
- Basil
- Oregano
- Thyme
- Mint
Are There Any Foods Guinea Pigs Can’t Eat?
Some human foods, while delicious to us, are hazardous or potentially unhealthy to your pet guinea pig. Foods that you should never give your guinea pig include, but are not limited to:
- Dairy products
- Avocados
- Chives, garlic, leeks, onions
- Chocolate
- Seeds, nuts, fruit pits, and stones
- Bread, pasta, fries, and rice
- Peanut butter
- Potatoes
- Beans
Conclusion
Dill is not only a safe option for your guinea pig, but it’s also good for them because it’s a source of vitamin C. If you are adding something new to your guinea pig’s diet, it’s important to do so gradually to prevent them from getting an upset stomach. Try introducing one new food at a time and offer them only a small amount to see how they respond.
Featured Image Credit: glebchik, Shutterstock
