Monday, January 22, 2007

Rabbits and Guinea Pigs

All for PETZ

Rabbits are primarily fed a pelleted diet. Traditionally these pellets are made from pelletized alfalfa hay. Recent research indicates that these alfalfa based pellets are too high in protein and too low in fiber for adult rabbits. The digestive system of the rabbit includes an organ called the cecum that is located at the origin of the large intestine. The cecum's function is to break down digest fiber. High protein, low fiber diets can lead to an impacted cecum.

Current wisdom recommends that adult rabbits (over 6-8 months old) be fed a Timothy Hay based diet for its lower protein and higher fiber content. Fresh dark green leafy vegetables like dandelion leaves, romaine lettuce, kale and endive should be given. Small quantities of fresh carrots, apples, banana, papaya, and even raspberries may be used as treats. Timothy Hay should be offered at all times.

It is safe to feed Guinea Pig pellets to rabbits in an a pinch, but it is not recommended to feed rabbit pellets to Guinea Pigs because pellets formulated for rabbits specifically do not meet the Vitamin C requirements of Guinea Pigs. It is also important to note that adult pet Guinea Pigs' nutritional requirements differ from those of young, gestating or lactating sows.

Guinea Pigs are primarily fed a pelleted diet. They are unique in that they are the only mammal other than primates that do not metabolize Vitamin C from sunshine. Therefore their diet must be supplemented with this essential vitamin at a rate of 10 mg per day. Guinea Pig Pellets should have stabilized Vitamin C added to them. It is safe to feed Guinea Pig pellets to rabbits in an emergency, but it is not safe to feed rabbit pellets to Guinea Pigs.

The above information courtesy of Sun Seed Company, Inc.

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