What can rabbits and guinea pigs safely eat?

The majority of a rabbit’s or guinea pig’s diet should ideally consist of hay, closely followed by fresh vegetables and herbs. However, not all rabbits tolerate fresh greens well, and some vegetables are even unsafe for them.

If your pet is not used to fresh vegetables, introduce them gradually. Always observe how they react when offering a new vegetable. For many types of greens, they may be healthy for your rabbit or guinea pig, but should not be given every day. Rotate the different kinds of greens to ensure a varied diet.

The tables below show the main types of greens that are safe and unsafe for your pet.

Rabbits

Foods your rabbit is allowed to eat

Jerusalem artichoke
Alfalfa
Endive
Celery
Chicory
Celeriac
Cucumber
Kohlrabi
Rutabaga (Swede)
Lucerne (Alfalfa)
Pak choi (Bok choy)
Parsnip
Celery leaves
Spinach
Bean sprouts
Tomato
Fennel
Watercress
Belgian endive (Chicory)
Carrot (including greens)
Sunflower

Foods your rabbit should NOT eat

Potato
Eggplant (Aubergine)
Avocado
Chives
Beans
Mushroom
Zucchini (Courgette)
Peas
Corn
Wet grass and freshly cut grass
Leek
Rhubarb
Beetroot (Red beets)
Savoy cabbage
Brussels sprouts
Onion / Shallot
White and red cabbage

Lettuce and cabbage varieties are not included in the table above. Some rabbits tolerate them well, but this is not the case for all rabbits. These vegetables should be offered with caution, as they can cause diarrhea or gas in the digestive system.

Guinea pigs

Foods your guinea pig is allowed to eat

Alfalfa
Artichoke
Asparagus
Celery
Cauliflower
Kale
Broccoli
Chinese cabbage (Napa cabbage)
Green cabbage
Pointed cabbage (Sweetheart cabbage)
Brussels sprouts
Bean sprouts
Spinach
White cabbage

Foods your guinea pig should NOT eat

Potato
Eggplant (Aubergine)
Avocado
Beans
Mushrooms
Zucchini (Courgette)
Garlic
Coconut
Snow peas / Pod peas (Peultjes)
Leek
Rhubarb
Sugar snaps (Sugar snap peas)
Onion

Guinea pigs cannot produce their own vitamin C, so it is essential to provide them with foods rich in this vitamin every day. Fresh vegetables like bell peppers, kale, and parsley are excellent sources. A deficiency in vitamin C can lead to serious health problems, including scurvy.

If you have any questions or need advice about your pet’s diet, feel free to contact us.