Can Guinea Pigs Eat Turnip Greens?

As responsible pet owners, we want to ensure that our pets never go hungry, and that they eat nutritious and healthy food. Here are a few things to consider when asking the question: “Can Guinea Pigs Eat Turnip Greens?”

As Plant Eaters, Can Guinea Pigs Eat Turnip Greens?

Your little furry ones can definitely eat Turnip Greens. Just to clarify, these are the green, somewhat leafy part of the turnip, and not the part that is buried underground. Although that part is also safe and good for them to eat, we will be focusing on the top part or the green leafy part, which is very similar to Broccoli or Kale in shape and form.

Turnip greens contain Vitamin C, which are needed by your Guinea pigs for growth and to strengthen their immune system. However, as too much of something is very bad, Turnip Greens should be limited to once or twice a week if included in your Guinea Pigs’ diet.

Nutritional Value of Turnip Greens for Guinea Pigs

Turnip Greens, being a good source of vitamins and minerals, are great for your Guinea Pig, and their nutritional breakdown is as follows: (based on 100 grams)

Calories	32
Protein	1.5 g
Carbohydrate	7.1 g
Fiber	3.2 g
Sugar	0.8 g
Fat	0.3 g

Benefits of Eating Turnip Greens for Guinea Pigs

1. Protects against Scurvy – Because of the excellent levels of Vitamin C found in Turnip Greens, your Guinea Pigs are safe against Scurvy. This is highly beneficial to your furry ones because they don’t produce Vitamin C naturally. 
2. Optimal Health and Weight – Since the greens have low calories, carbs, and fats, this helps to maintain a healthy range of weight and body mass for your pet Guinea pig. This in turn is also good for their heart and internal organs as well.
3. Strong Bloodwork – Because of high iron and copper content in turnip greens, your little furry pets will be protected against conditions such as anemia and other blood-related ailments.
4. Boosts Immunity – With the vitamins and minerals present in Turnip Greens, your little furry ones will have added protection against ailments such as respiratory infections, tumors, and skin diseases.

The Downside to Guinea Pigs Eating Turnip Greens

There are still a number of risks to consider when feeding your little ones some turnip greens. Mainly, this has to do with too much calcium in their diet. As a responsible pet owner, you want to avoid this, which will lead to a buildup of calcium stones in your Guinea pigs’ urinary system.

Other potential risks to your furry pet are diarrhea, renal failure, or food poisoning. Because of too much Calcium in their diets, your furry ones may develop harmful conditions to their systems. However, with proper maintenance and portions, this should not be a problem.

In Summary : Turnip Greens Are Good for your Guinea Pigs once in a while

Your little furry pets love the taste of turnip greens, and they will enjoy the benefits of Vitamin C in their lifestyle and diet, but too much of this May lead to calcium deposits, which will make it difficult to pass waste. It is always best to feed them Turnip Greens in moderation, perhaps once or twice a week in small portions.