Recommended Diet Types
When boarding pet rodents, it's crucial to maintain their usual diet to avoid stress and digestive upset. The main diet types include:
- Pelleted Dry Food: Commercially formulated pellets provide balanced nutrition and are easy to portion.
- Fresh Vegetables and Fruits: Offer small amounts daily for variety and hydration. Avoid high-sugar fruits.
- Hay: Indispensable for guinea pigs and chinchillas; also beneficial for rabbits and some rodents.
- Treats: Use sparingly, such as seeds, nuts, or commercial treats.
Portion Sizes and Daily Caloric Needs
Portions vary by species, age, size, and activity level. Use the table below as a general guide.
| Species | Adult Weight | Pellets per day | Hay per day | Calories per day |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Guinea Pig | 700-1200 g | 1/8 cup | Unlimited | 80-100 |
| Hamster (Syrian) | 100-150 g | 1 tablespoon | Small handful | 15-25 |
| Gerbils | 50-100 g | 1 teaspoon | Small handful | 10-15 |
| Rat (adult) | 200-500 g | 1/8-1/4 cup | Optional | 30-50 |
| Mouse | 20-40 g | 1 teaspoon | Optional | 5-10 |
Feeding Frequency and Schedule
Feed rodents once or twice daily. Morning and evening feedings mimic their natural crepuscular activity. Empty uneaten fresh food after a few hours to prevent spoilage. Hay should always be available.
Essential Nutrients
- Protein: 12-20% for growth and maintenance. Sources: pellets, legumes, seeds.
- Fat: 3-5% for energy; avoid excess.
- Carbohydrates: From grains and vegetables; provide energy.
- Vitamin C: Critical for guinea pigs (10-30 mg/kg/day). Supplement if needed.
- Calcium and Phosphorus: balance important for bone health.
Toxic or Harmful Foods
- Chocolate, caffeine, alcohol: Toxic to rodents.
- Raw beans, potatoes, rhubarb: Contain harmful compounds.
- Garlic, onion, leeks: Can cause anemia.
- Avocado: High fat and toxic to some species.
- Citrus fruits: Too acidic for some rodents.
Water Intake
Provide fresh, clean water at all times via a sipper bottle. Replace daily. Rodents need about 10-15 ml per 100 g body weight daily, but offer ad libitum.
Supplements
Generally, a high-quality pelleted diet provides all necessary nutrients. However, guinea pigs often require additional vitamin C. Oxbow's vitamin C tablets or fresh veggies high in vitamin C (bell peppers, kale) are recommended.
Feeding Differences by Age
Young (under 6 months): Higher protein (18-20%) for growth. Provide alfalfa hay (higher calcium) for young guinea pigs and rabbits.
Adults: Maintain balanced diet with timothy hay and limited treats.
Seniors (over 2 years for hamsters, 3+ for rats): Lower protein (12-14%), easy-to-chew foods, and monitor weight.
Signs of Healthy vs. Poor Diet
Healthy: Bright eyes, glossy coat, normal stool (formed, dark), active behavior, appropriate weight.
Poor diet: Dull fur, weight loss or obesity, diarrhea or constipation, lethargy, overgrown teeth.
If you notice signs of poor health, adjust food variety and consult a veterinarian.