We love blackberries especially the juicy sharp flavor that they have. They are well loved for the kind of flavor that they bring to many different culinary dishes which are found around the world.
Blackberries for example are great raw or cooked particularly in desserts where they are a standout fruit either on their own or as part of a pie.
So if we can eat them, can guinea pigs eat them as well?
Can guinea pigs eat blackberries?
Let’s take a look at their nutritional data and find out.
As usual, we’re looking particularly at their phosphorus, sugar, fat oxalate acid, and calcium content.
A good amount of vitamin c and a is also a nice bonus.
Total Fat 0.5 g 0%
Saturated fat 0 g 0%
Polyunsaturated fat 0.3 g
Monounsaturated fat 0 g
Cholesterol 0 mg 0%
Sodium 1 mg 0%
Potassium 162 mg 4%
Total Carbohydrate 10 g 3%
Dietary fiber 5 g 20%
Sugar 4.9 g
Protein 1.4 g 2%
Vitamin A 4%
Vitamin C 35%
Calcium 2%
Iron 3%
Vitamin D 0%
Vit B-6 0%
Vitamin B-12 0%
Magnesium 5%
source usda
As you can see they contain a little fat and calcium but do have a high sugar content.
However, their vitamin c content is fantastic so that is a real bonus.
So guinea pigs can eat blackberries, but because of the high sugar content, only feed twice to three times a week at the most in small portions.
Also, only feed them ripened blackberries. Avoid any with a reddish color.
Make sure that they are washed thoroughly before you feed them to your guinea pig as there may be pesticides and parasites on your blackberries that you may not be aware of.
Blackberries make a nice treat for your guinea pig and they will enjoy them. However, they shouldn’t be eaten too frequently as they may make a piggie unwell after eating them.
image flickr
Can guinea pigs eat blackberry leaves?
They can eat the leaves, but only feed newer leaves and not the older and tougher leaves. The spikes on them aren’t dangerous so they are ok.
It’s better to feed them from your garden if you do pick them just so you know what has and hasn’t been sprayed on them.
When they are picked from public places there is no knowing what has been put on them so do take care if you do pick them from a public place.
For more foods that guinea pigs can and can’t eat, check out our GUINEA PIG FOOD LIST.