Can Guinea Pigs Eat Basil?
Guinea pigs are the cutest pets anybody could have as a pet. They also like hanging out with their owner, unlike some pets. You are lucky if you have them. But it’s also your responsibility to look after them. For that, you must know that they are very selective about what they eat and what they don’t. so, you should make sure of that.
Can Guinea Pigs Eat Basil?
Yes, Guinea Pigs can eat basil but within permissible limits. You must know that guinea pigs eat a variety of herbs but some of them are toxic, but that is not the case with basil. They are good for guinea pigs but still, they should be given within the specified limit only. You would be also very happy to know that basil is one of the favourite herbs of guinea pigs. It is not at all harmful but still, it requires some precaution. Basil contains calcium and phosphorus which are both not good for the urinary tract of guinea pigs.
Why Should You Feed Basil To Your Guinea Pig?
We know that guinea pigs love to eat basil but we don’t know what benefit will it provide to guinea pigs. Well, the answer to your question is here.
The most important benefit of all is that it contains vitamin c. and we know how important it is for guinea pigs to eat food that contains vitamin c components. As they cannot produce vitamin c by themselves, they need to acquire it from somewhere. And you must know it prevents guinea from the scurvy disease which is harmful to your guinea pigs.
Another important component that basil contains is natural fibres and proteins which improve digestion and provides energy for the entire day. It also contains many vitamins and minerals which are very beneficial for the health of your guinea pigs.
One of them is vitamin A which is a very good antioxidant. It is very much needed by them as it fights inflammation and prevents radicle damage. Some of the benefits it provides to the health of kidneys, lungs, heart, brain, skin, eyesight, lungs, and every immunity in them.
It also contains one more vitamin which is important for the healthy bones and also for blood clotting that is- vitamin k. it also contains manganese and zinc which are also very important. Manganese helps in reducing the risk of diseases. Zinc helps in the healing of wounds and also keeps DNA healthy.
Why Should You Not Feed Basil To Your Guinea Pig?
Despite having so many advantages basil also has some disadvantages when eaten a lot.
As already told above that basil contains calcium and phosphorus which can cause a problem to the urinary tract if eaten in excess. The bladder and kidney might develop stones when eaten in excess. Excess of basil can be very painful and problematic for guinea pigs. Too much of basil can also cause a renal failure which will have a lot of bad consequences. Another problem of having too much basil is that it might lead to digestive problems.
Therefore, it is highly advisable to eat it 2 times a week with a limit. Otherwise, if you exceed it then it might lead to diarrhoea and also vomiting in the most serious case.
Can Guinea Pigs Eat Thai Basil?
Yes, Guinea pigs can eat Thai basil. But just make sure that any type of basil eaten by guinea pig should be served only two times a week.
Can Guinea Pigs Eat Lemon Basil?
Yes, Guinea pigs can eat lemon basil. But start by serving them only a small amount. First, see whether they would like it or not and then serve them.
Can Guinea Pigs Eat Sweet Basil?
Yes, Guinea pigs can eat sweet basil. But just make sure of serving them only the prescribed amount. And also remember it has sugar content present in them so do not serve them sweet basil a lot.
How To Feed Basil To Your Guinea Pig Properly?
You can serve them simply by first washing basil properly and cutting them into small pieces and serving them in a bowl.
Just make sure of one thing that you serve them basil only two times a week because eating basil in excess can be harmful.
Alternatives To Basil For Guinea Pigs
- Broccolini
- Watercress
- Cauliflower
- Artichoke
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| Image |  |  |  |
| Brand | Oxbow | Oxbow | Hartz |
| Item From | Pellet | Straw | Pellet |
| Ingredients | Natural | Natural | Scientifically-Formulated |
| Veterinarian Recommended | Yes | Yes | - |
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FAQs
Can Basil Make Guinea Pigs Sick?
Yes! There are chances that basil can make Guinea pigs sick but that is only when basil is eaten in excess.
Can Guinea Pigs Eat Sage?
Well there is no possible evidence to tell whether it is safe for a guinea pig or not. So, it is better that you don’t serve your guinea pigs sage at all
Conclusion:
Well, It can be clearly said that guinea pigs can eat basil and in fact, they love eating basil.
But they should be fed only within the permissible limit. They provide with a lot of health benefits also one of which is highly important- vitamin C.
Just a word of caution doesn’t serve them any type of basil more than two times a week.
