Corn also known as maize in the United States is a starch vegetable and they are from the kernels of a cob which is also covered by a husk. Corn is majorly used as a name for small grains with multiple seeds, and their uses vary from agriculture to industrial. The record shows that corn is one of the most popular vegetables in the world, but often it is labeled as a bad fruit or vegetable because it is mostly used as a GMO. Nevertheless, the valuable uses overshadow its bad name.
Behind rice and wheat, corn is the world’s third largest staple crop therefore, the most important role of this grain is to feed a billion people or two. Its primary role is that it also serves as food for American livestock. So whether you are rearing pork or chicken or beef, you can always feed corn to them to keep them healthy. However, can corn also keep guinea pigs healthy? Can guinea pigs eat corn? what benefit do they derive from corn? The answers to all these questions will be answered in this article.
Can Guinea Pigs Eat Corn
Yes, guinea pigs can eat corn but only in moderation. Corn is one of those grains that is enriched with a lot of sugar content, and since the digestive system of guinea pigs are sensitive to some food products, it may lead to adverse health risk if it is not fed in the correct proportion. Although corn may be considered helpful and disastrous for your guinea pigs, they are not blatantly toxic to them, and it will not cause a problem if you follow the procedure. You should also know that guinea pigs can almost all parts of corn even those parts that pet owners can not eat can be given to them.
In what Proportion Should Corn Be Fed To Your Guinea Pigs
Due to the sensitivity of the digestive system of your Guinea pigs, it is essential to know the correct proportion of corn that should be served to them to avoid health risks. Corn is known for the high amount of natural sugar and starches it possesses which is why corn on the cob should be given to your pets once or twice a week while the remaining part like the silk, husk, kernels and other edible part of corn can be given to your pets 3-4 times a week.
The correct serving size should be a quarter of a cob for medium size corn. You can also choose to feed them something lower than that to be in the safer size. If you are just introducing corn to your guinea pigs, it is essential to feed it to them in a smaller portion gradually and make sure you are attentive to their allergy reactions.
What Other Part Of Corn Should Be Fed To Guinea Pigs
Fortunately for your cavies, they can eat almost all parts of corn especially if they are uncooked and fresh. Corn husk and silk are similar to hay and grass which is the recommended food for your pets, they contain a high amount of beneficial nutrients. The texture and taste of corn husk and silk are perfect for your guinea pigs instead, of throwing them into the trash after consuming the on the cob, you can always feed them to your pets as a meal
In addition, corn kernels are another excellent food for your pets. However, do not feed the center of the corn to your pets since they are extremely tough and inedible. Dry corn kernels should also not be given to your pets since they can cause choking hazards when they get stuck to your cavy's teeth. Always feed a fresh and raw corn kennel to them.
What Are The Benefits Of Feeding Corn To Guinea Pigs
It is essential to be aware of the benefit that corn can provide to your guinea pigs as a meal. The following bullet point will highlight some of the benefits of corn for your guinea pigs.
High in fiber
It is one of the excellent vegetables or grains which is high in dietary fiber. Fiber is essential to aid the digestion of your guinea pigs among their other benefit. This fiber is found in the husk, silk, and even the kernel part of the corn.
Rich in antioxidants
Another excellent benefit of corn is that they are rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants are known for protecting guinea pigs from anti-aging, it is accomplished by removing the damage performed by free radicals. They are also known to improve the immune system in other to fight diseases
Rich in vitamins
Corn has a decent amount of vitamins A, C, E, and B6 with folate embedded in them. These vitamins are good for preventing them from scurvy, keeping their immune system stronger, and other likable functions
High in calories
If you want your guinea pigs to gain a little weight, you can feed them a small portion of corn since they contain a decent amount of calories, carbs, fats, and protein. All these will allow your guinea pigs to be full after eating a small portion
Possible Health Risks For Feeding Corn To Guinea Pigs
Corn offers.a lot of benefits if they are served in a small amount to your guinea pigs, what happens if your guinea pigs overfeed on them? The following will highlight the possible health risk of this grain.
Digestive problem
The digestive system of guinea pigs is sensitive which is why they will not do well when digesting a high amount of natural sugar. Failure to feed them in the correct proportion can cause diabetes, cramps, indigestion, constipation, etc
Obesity
It has been stated above that they are enriched with a decent amount of calories, but you should also know that if you fail to identify when it is okay to stop feeding this corn to your pets, then do not be surprised by them being overweight.
Urinary problem
They also contain a decent amount of calcium and phosphorus among all other nutrients, and this may cause kidney or bladder stones if they are given in high proportion
Conclusion
Corn is one of the excellent food that should be given to your pets. This is because of its popularity and the beneficial nutrient it offers them. However, they should be fed in small proportions because of the various high amount of nutrients is contain. To avoid making your cavies suffer from health risks, make sure to read through this article.