Can Guinea Pigs Eat Dandelions?

The short answer is YES, your guinea pig can eat dandelions.  Put them in the sun and chances are your guinea pig will love their chocolaty taste. But how much can they eat? Can too many dandelions kill guinea pigs? Which parts of the dandelions are safe for your guinea pig? 

Is it safe to feed your guinea pig the entire plant? The whole plant is edible from the fluffy bright yellow flowers and  leafy greens to the root. 

Benefits of Dandelions

There are several health benefits from feeding dandelions to  your guinea pig.

• Dandelions promote appetite by increasing the gastric functions in your guinea pigs
• Dandelions contain antioxidants which protect your pet from diseases
• Dandelions also reduce blood sugar
• They help in healing and refreshing the liver
• Proper  amounts of dandelions improve digestion and gut health
• Dandelions prevent constipation., However too much of the plant may lead to loose stool
•  Dandelions are a rich source of vitamin C

Risks of feeding your Guinea Pig dandelions?

There are health risks when eating dandelions.  

• Overfeeding dandelions may lead to an upset stomach.
• Too many  dandelions may cause frequent urination.
• Dandelions may damage your guinea pig’s bladder stones.
• The calcium level of this plant may cause kidney stones.

You should examine the color of your pet’s urine.  It is an early sign of minor health risks. The urine is orange or reddish after they eat dandelions.

What is the Nutritional Value of Dandelions?

Dandelions, you are rich in Vitamin C which is a vital nutrient for a guinea pig’s health., Guinea pigs do not generate their own vitamin C.

This nutrient comes from dandelion flowers, roots, and leaves which you should always feed to your guinea pigs.

Without vitamin C, your guinea pig will contract scurvy. Scurvy has the following symptoms:

• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Rough coat
• Weakness

Other nutrients include;

• Energy – 45 kcal
• Protein – 2.7 g
• Total lipid (fat) –0.7 g
• Carbs – 9.2 g
• Dietary Fiber – 3.5 g
• Sugars – 0.71 g
• Calcium – 187 mg
• Iron – 3.1 mg
• Magnesium – 36 mg
• Phosphorus – 66 mg
• Potassium – 397 mg
• Sodium – 76 mg
• Vitamin C – 35 mg
• Vitamin B-6 – 0.251 mg
• Vitamin A – 508 µg
• Vitamin E – 3.44 mg
• Carotene, beta – 5850 µg
• Folate – 27 µg

How often Should Guinea Pigs Eat Dandelions?

How often should you feed your guinea pigs dandelions? If your guinea pigs have never eaten dandelions, do so sporadically.  Start by giving them the flowers and leaves.

In spring and summer, you should feed them a handful of dandelions 2-5 times a week.

How To Feed Dandelions for Guinea Pigs?

How can you introduce dandelions into your guinea pig’s diet?   Mix dandelions with hay to create a healthy treat  for your guinea pigs including baby and pregnant ones. To bond with your guinea pigs, feed them with your hands.

How To Prepare Dandelions for Guinea Pigs?

Dry the  dandelions to maximize their effectiveness. Drying them emits a chocolate taste which your guinea pigs will  love. You can also cut them up and mix them with hay.

Are Dandelions Leaves/ Roots/ Seeds Safe for Guinea Pigs?

The short answer is yes.  The entire dandelion plant is safe. Your baby guinea pig can eat dandelion stems, flowers, leaves, and the roots. 

Does The Kind of Dandelions You Feed to Your Guinea Pig Matter?

All types of dandelions are good for your Guinea pig. However, the dandelions should  have no traces of pesticides as that is harmful to guinea pigs’ health.

Final Thoughts

Dandelions are excellent for your Guinea pigs health. They are a good source of nutrients, necessary for growth and development of Guinea Pigs. However, the fact that they are perfect for Guinea pigs doesn’t mean you should feed them excess quantities. Lastly, dandelions boost your guinea pig’s immune system.