Guinea pigs can eat various types of plant food, but some types of plants are harmful to them.
Can guinea pigs eat carnations?
Guinea pigs cannot eat carnations because this plant contains toxic compounds called saponins. Small amounts of carnation may not cause problems, but larger amounts can seriously damage their health.
In today’s article you will find out why this plant is harmful to guinea pigs, what are the side effects and similar questions related to the topic.
Can guinea pigs eat carnations?
Guinea pigs should not eat carnations, because if they eat they can only get sick. The biggest problem is the ingredient saponin, which is toxic and is found in the carnation flower itself.
Guinea pigs if they eat small amounts may not have any serious consequences and side effects from carnation, but in larger amounts, they can almost certainly have problems.
Many owners report that their guinea pigs who ate only carnation leaves had no ill effects.
Therefore, we can conclude that carnation petals are safe, although the stems should not be given to them for eating.
What are the side effects of carnations for guinea pigs?
If the guinea pigs eat carnation in small quantities, they may not have any serious problems and side effects for health, but in larger quantities, they will certainly have certain problems.
The intake of a large amount of carnation in the body of guinea pigs can cause:
- Diarrhea – a reaction of their stomach from poisoning with carnation and the saponins in their composition.
- Vomiting – carnation poisoning will induce vomiting so that the guinea pig can clear its digestive system.
- Stomach problems – or difficulties occur because the toxic ingredients of the carnation will work and create problems that depend on the amount eaten by the guinea pig.
- Dermatitis – the toxic ingredients of carnation, apart from causing internal problems, they will also irritate the skin of guinea pigs and cause redness, itching and discomfort.
- Respiratory problems – inhaling the toxic compounds from carnation can cause irritation to the guinea pig’s airways.
- Insufficient nutrients – because feeding carnation can lead to nutrient deficiencies.
- Stress – because possible carnation poisoning will cause digestive problems that will only upset the guinea pig.
Carnation leaves are safer, while carnation stems are the biggest problem for guinea pigs and can cause health problems.
If the guinea pigs show any of the above symptoms then you should not wait, you should take them to the vet immediately.
What plants are poisonous to guinea pigs?
As guinea pigs are vegetarians, they feed on many plants, but some of them are toxic and dangerous to their health and life.
The easiest way to know which plants are poisonous to guinea pigs is by how they grow, for example, plants growing from a bulb are poisonous to them.
In addition to not being able to eat carnations, guinea pigs are also not allowed to eat:
- onion
- leeks
- garlic
- bluebells
- tulips
- chives
- spring onions
Therefore, always be careful what plants you give to guinea pigs, or if you are not sure if they are safe, consult a veterinarian first.
What to do if the guinea pigs eat a lot of carnations?
If the guinea pigs by some chance eat a large amount of carnation, then you should pay attention to their condition for 24 hours.
If you notice that symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting and similar side effects appear then you should take your pet to the vet for an examination and to see if treatment is needed.
On the other hand, if the guinea pigs do not show any side effects then there is no need to worry, however, wait another 24 hours to make sure everything is fine with them.
How to prevent guinea pigs from eating carnations?
To prevent guinea pigs from eating carnations, the most important thing is to always be careful what you give them to eat.
Never leave carnations nearby so guinea pigs can’t get to them and eat them.
Never leave a carnation in your room, especially when you let the guinea pigs run and play, because if they get the chance, be sure they will eat as much as they can because they are not aware of the possible consequences.
Read more: Can Guinea Pigs Eat Wild Violets? Let’s Discover
Will guinea pigs like to eat carnations?
If given the opportunity, guinea pigs will surely eat carnations.
The carnation plant itself will attract the guinea pigs with its smell, and once they try it, they will surely want to eat as much as they can.
Guinea pigs are vegetarians and therefore they usually eat most plants and herbs without knowing that they can be poisoned.
Can guinea pigs die if they eat carnations?
Guinea pigs can eventually die if they eat too much carnation, especially if they eat from the stems.
The excessive amount of carnation and the presence of toxic ingredients can cause poisoning of the guinea pigs which they will not be able to withstand.
That’s why it’s best that they don’t get the chance to eat carnation at all, that way they will be protected from side effects and dangers to their lives.
Read more: Can Guinea Pigs Eat Catnip? (Leaves, Seeds And Stems)
FAQs
Is Rose safe for guinea pigs?
Rose is completely safe for guinea pigs to eat, and the presence of vitamin C is great for their health. Guinea pigs can also freely eat rose petals.
Do guinea pigs need hay every day?
Guinea pigs should have enough hay to eat every day because it is their primary food that allows them to have a healthy digestive system. Hay allows them to take in a sufficient amount of fiber and other nutrients.
Conclusion
It is best not to let guinea pigs eat carnations at all, as large amounts can cause health problems. Small amounts are not so dangerous, but larger amounts can cause diarrhea, vomiting and other side effects.
Saponin is a poisonous substance found in carnations and is the main reason why guinea pigs are not allowed to eat this plant.
Finally, there are countless other plants and herbs that are healthy and safe for guinea pigs to eat, so there’s no need to risk giving them carnation.
