Can Guinea Pigs Consume Zucchini & Squash? Here’s What You Should Know!

Guinea pigs, also known as cavies, spend a lot of time foraging and grazing in herds or groups. They are natural herbivores and eat only plant-based foods. These friendly pocket pets can survive on pellets and timothyhay in captivity but they love fresh fruits and vegetables.

People know that guinea pigs love green leafy vegetables and herbs. But what about zucchini, squash, and other squash? Is it a good food choice for your guinea? Are guinea pigs able to eat them? These foods should be avoided. Yes! You can find all details in our article.

Yes, guinea pigs can eat squash and zucchini.

Zucchini, also known as courgette, and squash are both summer plants. They are members of the Cucurbitaceae Family, which includes melons, cucumbers, watermelons, and pumpkins. Although technically fruits, squash, and zucchini can be treated and prepared as vegetables.

Zucchini

Zucchini is one among many fruits that belong to a group often called summer squash. When their skin is still soft and immature, they are ready to be harvested.

Zucchini can be baked, steamed, or sauteed when prepared for human consumption. Because guinea pigs are unable to digest cooked vegetables and fruits, it is important that zucchinis be kept raw.

Summer squash

Other varieties of summer squash, like zucchinis, are fine for your Guinea Pig to eat. These should be cut into small pieces, and raw.

There are many common summer squash varieties, including crookneck squash and gem squash, crookneck, gem squash, pattypan, straight neck squash, and tromboncino.

Winter Squash

Winter squash is a different variety from summer squash. They are grown on long, rambling vines and harvested when they have fully matured and the skins are hardened into a hard rind. These fruits are stored and eaten during winter, hence the name winter squash.

Most winter squashes in Australia and New Zealand are generally described by the term “pumpkin” in Australia and New Zealand.

Winter squashes should not be cooked and then cut into small pieces. You can remove any hard seeds if you want to, but it is not necessary. Your guinea pig will likely not eat them and they are safe.

Are Guinea Pigs attracted to Squash and Zucchini?

Many guinea pigs love the taste of summer and winter squash, including zucchini. You may find your guinea pig does not like the rind. This is the bitterest part of the fruits and you might want to remove the skin before giving them to your pet.

Guinea pigs enjoy eating the green leaves of squash and zucchini plants, even though they are not intended for human consumption.

What is the nutritional content of these fruits?

Guinea pigs will not overeat but it is important that they receive good nutrition from their food.

Guinea pigs, like humans, are not able to synthesize vitamin C from other food sources. It is crucial to ensure your guinea pig eats foods rich in vitamin C.

Squash and zucchini also have high water content (26.5g per ounce (28g), respectively). This will keep your pet hydrated in the summer months.

Are there any concerns you should be aware of?

Guinea pigs require a variety of food, so it is best to give them a variety of fruits and vegetables.

The Humane Society of the United States states that guinea pigs require approximately 1 cup of fresh fruits or vegetables each day. However, this does not mean that guinea pigs should consume a cup of squash or zucchini every day. Instead, these fruits can be beneficial to your pet’s diet once a week.

You should also make sure that your guinea pig only gets fresh zucchini and squash. Your guinea pig will not eat foods that are moldy or have gone bad. To prevent your guinea pig from becoming sick, it is a good idea to throw away any uncooked squash or zucchini.

Every guinea pig is unique, so it is important to gradually introduce new foods into your pet’s diet. Individual guinea-pig reactions can be different from humans. If you are concerned about your pet’s reactions to squash or zucchini, consult their veterinarian.