Can guinea pigs eat raw potatoes?

The selection of a balanced diet for a pet encourages owners to constantly look for information about the acceptability of a particular product. Potatoes are one of the most controversial vegetables. You can find information on the advisability of feeding with tubers, as well as information on categorical prohibitions.

Positive properties of potatoes

Each potato contains:

• about 20% carbohydrates;
• vegetable proteins;
• ash substances;
• fats;
• vitamin complex.

This set of substances is extremely useful for a rodent.

Cons of a vegetable

The main disadvantage, due to which many do not recommend giving raw potatoes to guinea pigs, is an excess amount of starch. It is almost not absorbed by the body of the animal, as a result of which pathogenic microorganisms begin to multiply in the intestinal tract.

Guinea pigs need starch in a small amount to replenish energy, but even a slight excess of the norm leads to:

• animal obesity;
• proliferation of the liver;
• chronic diarrhea;
• hepatitis;
• cirrhosis

Also, the presence of saponins in the vegetable reduces the immune defense of the rodent.

Final recommendations

The decision on the advisability of introducing potatoes into the pet’s diet remains with the owner. Sprouted or green tubers are categorically excluded.

Raw potatoes should first be offered in a microscopic dose. After the pet has eaten a piece, it is necessary to closely monitor his well-being for several days. If the reaction to the vegetable is normal, then it is possible to increase the amount of potatoes to 20% of the daily menu.

Experts recommend mixing the pieces with other hard vegetables that allow the animals to grind their incisors. For older guinea pigs, potatoes should be boiled – their teeth are no longer able to process a raw tuber, even finely chopped.

We recommend that you familiarize yourself with the materials in the articles “Is it possible to give beets to a guinea pig?” and “Can guinea pigs be given radishes?”.