Asparagus is a spring to early summer vegetable that peaks in April and May. You may see it hitting the grill or the roasting pan and wonder, “Can guinea pigs eat asparagus too?” as you enjoy this treat.
The Short Answer: Can Guinea Pigs Eat Asparagus
Yes, guinea pigs can eat asparagus in moderation. It’s critical to only offer asparagus to your guinea pigs as part of a rotation diet and only after you have monitored your guinea pig’s initial response.
Considerations With Guinea Pigs Eating Asparagus
Like many vegetables, monitoring the first couple of times you feed your guinea pigs asparagus is crucial. Some guinea pigs can get gas or bloating, which is uncomfortable for them and may lead to other complications.
Another consideration is the oxalate levels. Unfortunately, asparagus is on the higher side of the scale. If you feed it to your guinea pigs too often, it can lead to the formation of bladder stones. Bladder stones in guinea pigs are painful and may require veterinary intervention.
Phosphorous levels are also a consideration. Some phosphorous is necessary for healthy bone and tissue development. However, excess levels can lead to complications like soft tissue calcification.
How to Serve Guinea Pigs Asparagus
When you offer your guinea pigs asparagus to eat, it’s vital to wash it thoroughly. Like many vegetables, asparagus can be exposed to a significant number of pesticides. Plus, washing also removes dirt and debris.
Once your asparagus is thoroughly washed, it’s essential to remove the thick, woody portion of the asparagus. Then, you should cut it into 1-inch sections so you know exactly how much you’re feeding. Each guinea pig should get a maximum of two sections.
As with all guinea pig food, never offer your guinea pig cooked asparagus. Cooking changes the vegetable’s composition, and guinea pigs have not evolved to eat cooked foods.
Nutrients in Asparagus
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is essential for many body systems, including immune and reproduction. This vitamin is most commonly associated with eyesight, though, and it does help your piggles keep their sight.
Vitamin C
Guinea pigs cannot make their own vitamin C, so you must ensure they get enough in their diet to prevent scurvy. C is another all-around vitamin, though this one is responsible for natural healing and growth.
Vitamin K
Vitamin K is critical for blood clotting and bone health. Your guinea pig needs it to ensure their bodies can handle any wounds they pick up and that their bodies have the components to stay strong.
Antioxidants
Antioxidants are critical for managing free radicals, which are produced from the breakdown of food. Free radicals can damage cells, which then require more resources to repair. Over time, free radical damage can accumulate.
Flavonoids
Flavonoids are a relatively new addition to nutrition but provide numerous benefits. Your guinea pig could receive antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-viral benefits, among others, for eating these in asparagus.
Water
Asparagus is over 90% water, which makes it a fairly hydrating vegetable. Some guinea pigs don’t drink enough, so hydrating vegetables can help make up the difference and keep them healthy.
Fiber
Fiber is critical for regulating your guinea pig’s digestive system. Food may not be broken down correctly in your guinea pig’s digestive system without fiber. Plus, fiber helps keep everything moving.
