Sometimes there are accessories that are available for guinea pigs that just are best to avoid for their health. Here is a list of accessories and supplies to avoid:

C&C cage grids that have less than 9 squares in either direction
There are many benefits of creating and making your pets cage and has become very popular. If you decided to make your pets cage out of C&C cages (common name for organization cubes) consider each opening in the grid and it should measure one and a half (1.5) inches or smaller. If there are fewer openings (making the grid measurement wider) will allow your pet to stick their head part way through the grid holes leaving them stuck or strangulated.

Avoid Using bedding that is made of Pine or Cedar

Recently there has been growing evidence that these materials release volatile hydrocarbons which can cause serious respiratory and possibly liver problems. Pine can be safe if it is cured, which means “heat treated” as this will release the harmful agents. However, if you do choose to use pine bedding keep in mind that even though a bag is labeled as “cured” there is always the possibility that the material was not properly treated.

Exercise ball or wheels

• Both of these type of exercise devices requires their spine to bend and guinea pigs do not have a flexible spine.
• Usage in these devices can result in serious life limiting health injury to your pet.

Using a harness or leash

Sometimes leashes are used with the intention to provide safe play outdoors for your pet. Your pet can be seriously injured from struggling against the leash and best to avoid use of them all together. Consider constructing or placing a enclosed outdoor area for you pet to safely play in.

Salt Wheels and/or Mineral Licks

Guinea pigs can over consume minerals leading to bladder and kidney stones.

Packaged pet store treats

Avoid products that contain:

• sugar
• fats
• dairy
• seeds
• nuts
• meats

Seeds and nuts are known to cause choking and blockage in the intestinal region. Consumption of fats and sugars are full of empty calories which is not beneficial to your pet’s health. Guinea pigs do not eat meat or animal products.

Drops of Vitamin C

You will see vitamin C drops widely recommended as guinea pigs are not able to produce any on their own.

• Supplements rapidly degrade when exposed to light

• gives the water a taste many guinea pigs find unpleasant causing possible dehydration
• hard to control the volume your pet will or will not drink

Supplying your guinea pig with a source of Fresh fruits and green vegetables is an excellent way that your pet acquires and consumes enough Vitamin C.

• Share
• Tweet