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Can Guinea Pigs Eat Rhubarb?

Can Guinea Pigs Eat Rhubarb?

Though it may be tempting to give your guinea pig a taste of the rhubarb you’re growing in your garden, resist the urge! Rhubarb is highly toxic to guinea pigs and can cause serious health problems. If you think your guinea pig has eaten rhubarb, contact your veterinarian immediately.

This guide will help you learn more about the dangers of rhubarb for guinea pigs and what to do if your pet eats this poisonous plant.

What Is Rhubarb?

Rhubarb is a vegetable that is related to celery and shares its crisp texture. The leaves of the plant are toxic, but the stalks are edible. Rhubarb can be eaten raw or cooked and is often used in pies, crisps, and jams.

While rhubarb is safe for humans to eat, it is not a good choice for guinea pigs. The leaves of the plant contain oxalic acid, which can be toxic to guinea pigs. The stalks of the plant also contain high levels of sugar, which can lead to weight gain and health problems in guinea pigs. It is best to avoid feeding rhubarb to your guinea pig.

Can Guinea Pigs Eat Rhubarb?

No, guinea pigs should not eat rhubarb because they lack the enzyme and cannot digest it, causing the excess fiber to accumulate in the intestine which may lead to gastrointestinal obstruction.

Rhubarb leaves, on the other hand, are high in oxalates and should not be fed to guinea pigs. So while rhubarb may look like a healthy snack for guinea pigs, it is best to avoid it.

Why Are Rhubarbs Bad for Guinea Pigs?

Rhubarbs are a popular choice of vegetable in salads and cooking, but they’re bad for guinea pigs.

Male guinea pigs that do eat rhubarb may get intestinal obstructions or other health problems such as bloating, nausea, gastric ulcers, and stress due to gas production. Female guinea pigs that eat rhubarb may also get bladder stones.

Can Guinea Pigs Be Allergic to Rhubarb?

Yes, guinea pigs can be allergic to rhubarb. If your guinea pig is exhibiting any of the following symptoms, it may be allergic to rhubarb: skin irritation, wheezing, vomiting, diarrhea, or a runny nose. If you think your guinea pig may be allergic to rhubarb, please consult your veterinarian.

The Health Risks of Rhubarb for Guinea Pigs

Rhubarb leaves contain high levels of oxalates, which can cause kidney stones and other health problems in guinea pigs. The stalks of the plant are also quite sour and can cause digestive problems in guinea pigs. For these reasons, it is best to avoid giving rhubarb to guinea pigs.

If you do choose to feed your guinea pig rhubarb, make sure to only give them a small amount and monitor their health closely. If you notice any problems, stop feeding them rhubarb and consult your veterinarian.

Signs and Symptoms of Rhubarb Poisoning in Guinea Pigs

If you notice any of the following signs or symptoms in your guinea pig, stop feeding them rhubarb and consult your veterinarian immediately:

  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Lethargy
  • Dehydration
  • Excessive thirst
  • Unusual urination
  • Kidney stones

If your guinea pig has eaten a large amount of rhubarb, they may also experience seizures, coma, or death.

What Fruits and Vegetables Can You Feed Your Guinea Pig Instead?

If you have rhubarb growing in your yard, make sure your guinea pigs can’t get to it. If you’re feeding your guinea pigs fresh produce, avoid giving them any rhubarb. There are plenty of other safe fruits and vegetables for them to eat:

Rhubarb is not safe for guinea pigs to eat. If you’re looking for a fruit or vegetable that is similar in appearance to rhubarb, you can try feeding your guinea pig red cabbage instead. Red cabbage is safe for guinea pigs to eat and is a good source of Vitamin C.

Conclusion

Rhubarb is a popular choice of vegetable in salads and cooking, but it’s bad for guinea pigs. The leaves of the plant contain high levels of oxalates, which can cause kidney stones and other health problems in guinea pigs. The stalks of the plant are also quite sour and can cause digestive problems in guinea pigs. For these reasons, it is best to avoid giving rhubarb to guinea pigs.

If you do choose to feed your guinea pig rhubarb, make sure to only give them a small amount and monitor their health closely. If you notice any problems, stop feeding them rhubarb and consult your veterinarian.

If your guinea pig has eaten a large amount of rhubarb, they may also experience seizures, coma, or death. There are plenty of other safe fruits and vegetables for them to eat, so you don’t have to worry about giving them something else to snack on.

Some good options include apple, carrot, celery, chard, collard greens, kale, parsley, and pea pods. Red cabbage is also a safe choice for guinea pigs and is a good source of Vitamin C.