The name derives from the Kiwi a native flightless bird that is the national symbol of New Zealand. Kiwi is not an ordinary fruit in terms of the way it looks as well as its nutritional content. It is a fruit full of nutrients like Vitamin C, Vitamin K, folate, and potassium, they have lots of antioxidants and are a good source of fiber. Kiwi's black seeds are edible, and it is low in calories, making them ideal for weight loss.
Kiwi contains an enzyme known as actinidain which is known for its protein, dissolving properties, similar to that of papain in papaya. It is loaded with vitamins and minerals such as vitamins A, B6, B12, and E, Potassium, calcium, Iron, and magnesium too. All these benefits make it an ideal fruit for pet owners, however, can such a benefit be extended to little cavies? Can guinea pigs eat Kiwi? Continue reading this article to find out more about Kiwi and its usefulness for guinea pigs.
Can guinea pigs eat kiwi?
Yes, guinea pigs can eat Kiwi fruit but only in moderation. Kiwi fruit is one of the fruits that have many benefits to offer your little cavies because of the numerous nutrients enrich in them. These tropical fruits are enhanced with nutrients like vitamins A and C, dietary fiber, antioxidants, and all other macronutrients. However, there is too much sugar and acidic content present in them, and also not all parts of this fruit can be eaten by guinea pigs. This has proven to be dangerous when too much of it is present in the body system of your little cavies. This is why you should follow the correct standard of feeding this fruit to your pets to avoid serious health risks. In the meantime, what part of kiwi fruit should be given to your guinea pigs?
Can guinea pigs eat Kiwi Skin?
Guinea pigs are known for eating the skin part of most fruit because it gives their ever-growing teeth something to munch upon. Unfortunately, not the same can be said for Kiwi skin, this is because it has a rough slimy texture that lacks taste, and feeding this part may result in a choking hazard for them. Also, there is a tendency that the skin part may contain a bit of pesticide and most of these chemicals can be absorbed by the flesh and which can lead to stomach upset for the sensitive stomach of your pets.
Can Guinea Pigs Eat Kiwi seeds?
There is a bit of a conspiracy on whether guinea pigs can eat kiwi seeds or not by pet owners. Kiwi has very soft and small seeds, hence they can easily pass through the throat of your pets without it posing a threat to them. However, it can be arguably disputed that when feed in a large proportion it may cause health risks for your cavies. Therefore, it is essential to properly monitor how they consume the seed.
Can Guinea pigs eat Kiwi berries?
Yes, guinea pigs can eat Kiwi berries and every part of the berries including their skin. Kiwi berries are smaller in size and they have a sweeter taste compared to green or other regular kiwis. It should be properly washed before serving it to your cavies. It is known to contain some essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants and this makes them an ideal food for guinea pigs. However, every good thing should also be served in moderation to avoid any health risks
In what proportion should Kiwi be served to Guinea pigs
Since kiwis are considered a tasty food and enriched with a lot of sugar and acidic content, then you should be aware of the correct proportion you should feed them. In the meantime, do not allow your guinea pigs to eat more than a few small slices of lie fruit or 2-3 small thin slices 1-2 times a week. To attain the daily right macronutrients your guinea pigs need, you should serve it with other vegetables that contain little amount of sugar to balance out.
However, if you are just feeding it to them for the first time, it is best to feed a little less than the original slices to them and also place them under 24-hour observation in other to watch out for any bad signs or allergy reactions. If you notice any health changes, the best thing to do is cut back or not feed it to them anymore.
What are the benefits of feeding kiwi to guinea pigs
Kiwi is known to offer a lot of beneficial nutrients to your little cavies and some of the benefits will be discussed below
Help to prevent scurvy
Guinea pigs are one of the special types of pets that can not manufacture their vitamin C, therefore, they depend on all kinds of food that is enriched with this particular nutrient to survive. Fortunately, kiwi contains a decent amount of vitamin C, and it is important in preventing a general disease of guinea pigs called scurvy. They are also helpful in boosting their immune system.
Promote good eyesight and healthy skin
Some nutrients like beta-carotene, vitamin A, and antioxidants that are present in Kiwi help to promote good eyesight. They also contain vitamins E and K which help in promoting healthy skin and preventing early aging in your pets
Source of energy and Weight loss
It has already been mentioned above that kiwi possess low calories and fats and this will allow you not to worry about weight gain. They are also enriched with protein and carbs, and this serves as a source of energy for pets. The fiber in these fruits also aids in proper digestion
Possible health risks of feeding kiwi to Guinea pigs
Kiwi is enriched with a high proportion of sugar content, and this can lead to health risks like obesity, diabetes, stomach pain, and an increase in blood level sugar. This eventually leads to organ failure or multiple heart problems.
Kiwi also contains a decent amount of calcium and phosphorus, and too much of this nutrient may lead to accumulation in the urinary tract and eventually block the passage of substances. Therefore leading to painful urination, urinary infections, and kidney or bladder stones.
Conclusion
Guinea pigs can eat Kiwi, but it should only be in moderation. Kiwi is a type of fruit that has a lot of benefits and disadvantages for guinea pigs, some of which have been made mention in this article. You can scroll up to absorb the information needed.
