After potatoes, tomatoes are the most commonly used food in the whole world. However, the fact that tomatoes are beneficial to humans doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s beneficial to our pets as well. So, if you’re a guinea pig owner, you might be wondering if guinea pigs eat tomatoes or not.

Guinea pigs can and do eat tomatoes. However, you must keep in mind that the major part of a guinea pig diet should consist of hay. You can feed your little pets with tomatoes but in moderation and don’t forget to wash them properly before offering to get rid of harmful chemicals.

Now that you’ve learned that guinea pigs can eat tomatoes, it’s time to discuss how much to serve. This article will also contain information about tomato seeds, leaves, and stalks and whether they’re safe for your cavies or not. So let’s get started.

Will a Guinea Pig Even Eat Tomatoes?

Yes, most guinea pigs like to eat all types of tomatoes and they are also safe for them if eaten in small amounts. Almost all the fresh fruits and vegetables are beneficial for guinea pigs as they come with essential minerals and vitamins.

Tomatoes don’t contain a whole lot of vitamins and that’s why you should only offer them to your piggies occasionally. It’s also critical to remove all the leaves and vines as they contain toxic chemicals that can lead to many health problems.

Is it Safe to Feed Guinea Pigs with Tomatoes?

There are several types of tomatoes available in the market including beef tomatoes, plum tomatoes, and cherry tomatoes. You can buy them for your guinea pigs, regardless of the type because all of them are safe as long as they’re fresh.

The plants of all types of tomatoes belong to the nightshade family and they produce edible, acidic, and sugary fruits. So the small amount of the fully ripe fruit is completely safe for guinea pigs but the excess amount of sugar can lead to tooth decay, diarrhea, obesity, mouth sores, and other health problems in your cavies.

When Tomatoes aren’t safe for Guinea Pigs?

It’s also important to note that unripe tomatoes can be very dangerous for these little pets. They contain much higher levels of alkaloids than fully ripe fruit and have lower amounts of vitamin C. So, never feed your guinea pigs with unripe, green tomatoes.

Some piggies can also be allergic to tomatoes and the most common immediately noticeable allergic reactions are throat and mouth swelling. If you notice any of these reactions, then stop the feeding process right away and provide your guinea pig with water. You might also need to visit your vet if the symptoms get worse.

How Many Tomatoes Can a Guinea Pig Eat?

Ideally, you should only provide your guinea pigs with one cubic inch of tomato slice once or twice a week. Additionally, one cherry tomato is also the right amount to feed your guinea pigs. More than that can cause many health issues that we have already mentioned.

Most things that guinea pigs eat are usually leafy greens and tomatoes allow you to spice things up to provide your guinea pigs with the necessary vitamin C by adding a touch of variety. In simple words, tomatoes make for a treat for your guinea pigs instead of everyday use.

How to Prepare Tomatoes For Your Guinea Pigs?

If you want to feed your guinea pigs with tomatoes then consider buying fully ripe and raw fruit. Never go for the canned or cooked option as it’s equal to defeating the purpose. Carefully wash the raw and ripe tomato and remove vines and leaves very carefully and you don’t need to remove the seeds.

Can a Guinea Pig Eat Tomatoes Every Day?

No, you should not feed your guinea pigs with tomatoes every day. The major portion of their diet must be leafy greens and hay with the addition of some vegetables and fruits in a very small amount. At most, you can offer one small cherry tomato or a slice of the same size as a regular one to your guinea pig twice a week.

Tomatoes also contain high amounts of oxalic acid that can cause cheilitis if consumed too much. This medical condition can also lead to scabs on the guinea pig’s mouth which is severely painful and you’ll need to take your pet to the vet for proper treatment.

That’s why you must not give tomatoes to your guinea pigs on a daily basis, although most cavies love to eat this fruit.

Can Guinea Pigs Eat Tomatoes With Seeds?

Yes, the tomato seeds that a fully ripe fruit contains are completely safe for guinea pigs. According to a scientific study, tomato seeds and skin contain the highest levels of antioxidants and nutrients.

So, you don’t need to remove seeds as they can be very beneficial for your piggies if you provide them with no more than the recommended amount.

Can Guinea Pigs Eat Tomato Plant Leaves and Stalks?

It’s a mistake that you never want to make because tomato stems, leaves, and plants are very dangerous for your adorable pets. They contain high proportions of tomatine and solanine that your guinea pigs should never consume.

Both of these chemicals are alkaloids and they’re extremely toxic for your guinea pigs and can make them severely sick if eaten. You must keep this in mind, especially if you have grown tomatoes in your garden. You’ll need to make sure that all of your small furry pets can’t reach your garden.

Summary

If you like to offer different treats to your little companions then adding tomatoes can be a good option. Not only does it spice up things a bit but it also offers some essential materials such as fiber, vitamin K, and vitamin C.

However, it’s critical to be careful and remove all the green parts and offer one cherry or a cubic inch of regular tomato no more than twice a week.

To read more about foods for your piggy, check out our post What Can Guinea Pigs Eat.