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Tomatoes are healthy for humans and can be eaten raw or cooked. However, the real question posed by most pet owners is, can guinea pigs eat tomatoes? Yes. Guinea pigs can eat tomatoes as long as they are ripe.
Why Are Tomatoes Good for Guinea Pig?
Ripe tomatoes have good fiber and vitamin A, B6, and C. In addition, tomatoes make a good source of lycopene and potassium. Ripe tomatoes are ideal for guinea pigs since it is bland tasting compared to bitter raw ones.
Can guinea pigs eat tomatoes? Yes, guinea pigs can eat ripe tomatoes by biting them or simply munching on the whole fruit. Furthermore, tomato seeds are also safe for your guinea pig.
Improves Bone Health
Tomatoes contain K, a micronutrient that plays an essential role in the body. Thanks to the vitamin K present in tomatoes, your guinea pig will have strong bones and teeth.
Boosts Immunity
Guinea pigs have nutritional requirements, such as vitamin C. This vitamin prevents scurvy, boosts immunity, and promotes the functioning of white blood cells. Additionally, vitamin K in tomatoes can reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases in your pet guinea pig.
Enhances Eyesight
Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants that prevent free radicals that could damage the cells of your guinea pig. Aside from lycopene, tomatoes contain beta-carotene that improves eyesight.
Improve Digestion
Guinea pigs are known to love eating tomatoes. Tomatoes are beneficial since they contain fiber that helps in the digestion process of guinea pigs. Additionally, it enhances the absorption of nutrients in the gut of guinea pigs and helps curb diarrhea.
Prevent Cardiovascular Function
Tomatoes are rich in folate. Folate is an essential mineral that lowers blood pressure. In addition, folate plays an indispensable role in preventing heart failure and promoting cell function. It also aids in the growth of tissues.
Reduces Inflammation
Tomatoes contain high antioxidants, which are known for their inflammation-reducing capacity. Inflammation has been established by research as a predisposing factor to chronic illness. Therefore, feeding your guinea pig tomatoes help prevent chronic diseases and inflammatory-related conditions.
Do You Know?
Lots of snacks are safe for guinea pigs, but some snacks you should just not give your pet. We sat down and did some research and our vet has verified it: Can Guinea Pigs Eat Strawberries?
How Much Tomatoes Should Guinea Pigs Eat?
As a rule of thumb, guinea pigs should always eat not more than two-thirds of raw slices of tomatoes. Additionally, it would be best if you refrained from serving your guinea pig the same raw tomatoes more than three days a week. At least serve your guinea pig a slice of tomato once a week.
Risks of Feeding your Guinea Pig Tomatoes
Although tomatoes come with plenty of health benefits, pet owners should consider the serving and avoid unripe tomatoes. Moreover, certain parts of the tomato are toxic to guinea pigs. Such parts include leaves and stems that contain glycoalkaloids, which can cause vomiting or diarrhea.
Toxic Parts
Leaves and stems contain solanine glycoside, a chemical that causes stomachaches, vomiting, or diarrhea. Provide guinea pigs with fruit; avoid the leaves and stems.
Acidity
Tomatoes contain high amounts of acid like oxalic acid that can harm your pet. Therefore, you should consider the number of tomatoes you feed your guinea pigs. The high acidity in tomatoes can cause sores in your guinea pigs if fed excessively.
High Sugar Content
Tomatoes have a high sugar content that poses a health risk to guinea pigs if fed excessively. Several studies have established sugar as a predisposing factor to developing obesity. In addition, it can result in stomach upsets because of glycoalkaloids, and thus guinea pigs should be fed in moderation.
In conclusion, guinea pigs can eat ripe tomatoes despite the risks. Always carefully dice the tomatoes before serving to minimize the chances of upset bowels and undernourished pets. Remember that portion is also essential in addition to quality.
