A grape is a type of berry, but in some cases, it is rarely regarded as one, and they are scientifically known as Vitis vinifera member of the family Vitaceae. All of the plants within this family of plants produce berry-like fruits. The main function of grapes is their antioxidant effect and studies that the darker the grape, the stronger the antioxidant capacity. They contain anthocyanins and flavonoids which are natural antioxidants that remove harmful free radicals, protect and maintain the health of cells, and effectively delay the aging process of cells.
There are also various benefits that grapes offer to the body system of humans. However, that is not what we are looking for in this article, this article is meant to explain the various benefit grapes offers to guinea pigs or if guinea pigs can even eat grapes to start with. Continue reading this article to find out.
Can guinea pigs eat grapes?
Yes, guinea pigs can eat grapes but only in moderation. Grapes are a naturally bred fruit enriched with a lot of beneficial nutrients that are essential in keeping your little cavies healthy. They are known to contain vitamin C, one of the essential nutrients that the body of your guinea pigs can not synthesize, they also contain dietary fiber. They are very caloric and are rich in carbohydrates, you will also see them containing a high proportion of sugar content, therefore, making them an occasional treat and not a regular food for your cavies. Also, it is recommended to remove the seed or better still feed them seedless grapes for better benefits. To know the correct portion it should be fed to your pets, continue reading this article.
Can guinea pigs eat the various types and parts of grapes
Grapes are edible, but are all the parts and their various types edible to your guinea pigs? It has been discussed above that guinea pigs can eat grapes, however, it has not been mentioned the specific types of grapes they should or should not eat and also the various part of the fruits that may be beneficial or hazardous to their health.
Dried grapes
No, guinea pigs can not eat dried grapes or any dried fruits for that matter. This is a result of the excess sugar present in them compared to fresh fruits. In the grapes aspect, dried fruits turn into raisins, and both human beings and their pets love these fruits. However, that should not mean it should be served to your guinea pigs
Frozen grapes
feeding frozen grapes to your cavies depend on what pet owners believe in. Generally, frozen food should not be served to your cavies, but if it is allowed to cool down to room temperature it may be suitable for your pets. Scientifically, frozen grapes may lose some of the nutritional nutrient presents in fresh fruits hence, why some pet owners said it should not be given to your cavies
Cooked grapes
No, guinea pigs can not eat cooked grapes or any type of cooked food. This is because their digestive system is structured in a way that they can not secrete enzymes that are responsible for digesting cooked food. Hence, you little cavies should desist from them
Grape leaves, skin, and seeds
Grapes may be seedless or contain seed, and it is essential not to feed grapes that have seeds to your cavies because this can lead to choking hazards. However, they can eat the remaining part of the fruits since they are enriched in higher nutrients. They should be properly washed, and they must be free from pesticides before feeding it to them
Red or green grapes
Yes, guinea pigs can eat green grapes because they contain low calories and have a high amount of vitamins and minerals which is suitable for your pets. Red grapes are sweeter than the latter, but it also offers a lot of health benefits for your cavies.
Health benefits of feeding grapes to guinea pigs
Helps in reducing cholesterol levels
Cavies need to watch their cholesterol level because the high rate of cholesterol in their body system may result in severe health risks. Fortunately, some nutritional benefits in grapes can help your cavies reduce their cholesterol level even when they are not aware
Reduce the rate of inflammatory diseases
Vitamins and antioxidants are the essential nutrients needed to reduce the rate of inflammatory diseases in the body's system. Fortunately, grapes are enriched with a decent amount of that nutrient thereby, helping to keep your cavies as healthy as possible
Reduce blood sugar level
Grapes may contain a high amount of sugar content, but you will also find them to have a low glycemic index which is a measurement used to monitor how fast a portion of food can increase or reduce blood sugar level.
Promote good eyesight and strong bones
Grapes are enriched with vitamin A and antioxidants which are the essential nutrients needed for good eyesight. You will also find a decent amount of calcium, magnesium, and potassium in them. All these nutrients are needed to improve bone density and promote healthy and sturdy bones structure
Possible health risks of feeding Grapes to Guinea Pigs
There are possible health risks that may arise from feeding these nutritious fruits to your guinea pigs, and they are
- Kidney or bladder stone; grapes are enriched with a decent amount of calcium, and too much of this nutrient in their body system may result in kidney or bladder stone
- Digestive problem: Grapes contain a high amount of sugar, and this can lead to diabetes, gut infections, and other digestive issues that are from too much sugar level. This is because their digestive system can not digest them.
Conclusion
Grapes are one of the most nutritious fruits you can provide for your guinea pigs. However, it should be thoroughly washed and filled in the correct proportion to avoid possible health risks. Feeding grapes to your guinea pigs can provide a lot of health benefits for your little cavies in which some of which have been listed above. Other information needed concerning grapes has also been explained in this article.
