Mandarin orange (Citrus reticulata), also known as mandarin or mandarine, or tangerine, is a small citrus tree fruit treated as a distinct species of orange usually eaten plain or in fruit salads. Mandarins are known to be flatter on both ends, have a mild flavor, and are very easy to peel. Tangerines and clementines are mandarins. This citrus fruit not only tastes amazing but is also known to be super rich. They are packed with nutrients.
Mandarins contain Vitamins A and B, and a high level of Vitamin C which is great for preventing infections, removing free radicals, and supporting skin health. The Vitamin C found in mandarins works to stop colds and keep the immune system functioning properly so that they can fight off any nasty bugs that come their way. Can the same health benefits be said concerning guinea pigs and Mandarin? Can guinea pigs even eat Mandarin? This article will answer all the questions you need to know concerning Mandarin.
Can Guinea Pigs Eat Mandarin
Yes, guinea pigs can eat mandarin oranges but only in moderation. Mandarin orange is one of the beneficial fruits that can be given to your Guinea pigs. They are known to be enriched with various beneficial and excellent nutrients like vitamin C, minerals, fibers, and a high proportion of sugar and natural acidic content, and this can be very dangerous if it is fed in the wrong proportion.
Guinea pigs may be herbivores, but this those not give them the privilege to eat any type of food that comes from plants, this is because there are positive and negative benefits of feeding some particular fruits to your cavies, and this is why you should understand the principle governing the particular fruits before you feed it to them. For understanding Mandarin orange and how it should be served to your guinea pigs, you should continue reading this article. fibers
In what proportion should mandarin be given to guinea pigs
Due to the sensitivity of the digestive system of your Guinea pigs, it is essential to know the correct proportion of serving mandarin oranges to your guinea pigs to avoid health risks. Mandarin is known for the high amount of sugar and acidic content it possesses, which is why it should be given to your pets once or twice a week, it should also be spaced out while feeding it to them to avoid overfeeding.
The correct serving size should be one or two small sizes. You can also choose to feed them something lower than that If you are newly introducing mandarin to your guinea pigs. This is due to the allergy reaction that can be developed by your little cavies. Also, for extra caution, you should place them under 24-hour surveillance.
What is the health benefit of feeding Mandarin to guinea pigs
Not only are mandarins delightfully sweet and easy to prepare, but they are also loaded with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Your guinea pig's body needs these elements to stay healthy. Here are a few of the benefits you will get from eating this small, delicious fruit.
Enriched with vitamins
Mandarin oranges are an excellent source of vitamin C, which is a key nutrient for the immune system's proper function, as well as for maintaining healthy skin and healing wounds. Vitamin C in food is better absorbed by the body than the mega-dose of vitamin C you would get from a supplement. They also have a decent amount of vitamin A, which is another essential nutrient for a healthy immune system, good vision, and normal growth and development.
Contain a decent amount of Antioxidants
Beta-carotene and beta-cryptoxanthin are compounds that give citrus fruits like tangerines and mandarins their deep orange color. They are antioxidants that may also help reduce the risk of developing cancers for your little cavies. They also prevent anti-aging by limiting the damage caused by the presence of free radicals in their body system. You should know that Mandarin oranges have more beta-carotene and beta-cryptoxanthin than common oranges, making them excellent additions to your diet.
Enrich with potassium and calcium
Potassium is known for a major thing, and that is to control or lowers blood pressure, this is done by helping the body get rid of excess sodium (salt) and by easing tension in the walls of blood vessels. Along with potassium, mandarin oranges also contain calcium and magnesium. Guinea pigs who get more of these three minerals in their diets tend to have higher bone mineral density. That means their bones are stronger and less likely to break.
Contain soluble fiber and low cholesterol
Mandarins are a cholesterol-free treat and this can help your little cavies stick to their diet and stay healthy. They are also a good source of soluble fiber, which can help them feel full quicker hence, reduce the risk of obesity. Soluble fiber has also been shown to help reduce LDL cholesterol, often called bad cholesterol because it collects blood vessels and causes heart problems. Lowering your LDL cholesterol level may decrease the risk of having a heart attack by your pets.
Possible health risks of feeding mandarin to guinea pigs
The following are the effect of not following the correct proportion of feeding Mandarin to your guinea pigs.
Digestive problem
Guinea pigs are enriched with high amounts of nutrients like sugar and acidic content, and too much of these fruits to your pets may cause digestive problems like diarrhea, diabetes, cramps, bloating, gas, stool, etc
Urinary problem
You will also find a decent amount of calcium in mandarins. However, if you overfeed them these fruits, it may cause urinary problems like bladder or kidney stones.
Conclusion
Yes, guinea pigs can eat mandarin since they are enriched with a lot of beneficial nutrients which are essential for the daily consumption of your pets. However, it should also be given to them in moderation because mandarin also has a lot of dangerous side effects attached to them if they are fed in high proportion. Therefore, as a pet owner, you should follow the correct portion of feeding mandarin to your pets.
Can Guinea Pigs Eat Yogurt?
Can Guinea Pigs Eat Yam
