Can guinea pigs eat cabbage or broccoli?

Short answer: occasionally and in small amounts — brassicas can cause extra intestinal gas, so they should not be a daily staple.

1. Portion — once or twice a week, about one small leaf.

2. Introduce slowly — offer a little and watch appetite and droppings for 24 hours.

3. Daily vegetables — bell pepper, cucumber, romaine and coriander, rotated for vitamin C.

4. Preparation — wash, drain and serve at room temperature, never fridge-cold.

5. Warning signs — a swollen, tight belly, hunching or a clear drop in appetite need a prompt exotic-pet vet visit.