Posted: March 31, 2008, 5 a.m. EDT
Guinea pigs are prone to developing scurvy because, unlike most other mammals, they can’t produce Vitamin C in their bodies. If a guinea pig doesn’t receive enough Vitamin C in it body, it will develop scurvy.
A guinea pig suffering from scurvy may have swollen, painful joints and chest; may not want to eat or move, and may be bleeding from the gums.
Feeding a guinea pig a commercial guinea pig pellet, made specifically for cavies, can help to prevent scurvy. These pellets contain Vitamin C necessary for a guinea pig’s diet. Feed guinea pigs vegetables that are dark green in color every day—these foods are also high in Vitamin C.