Product Overview
Oxbow Essentials Young Guinea Pig Food is specially formulated to fuel the rapid growth and development of young guinea pigs (under 6 months), as well as pregnant and nursing sows who require elevated nutrition. Starting with high-fiber, protein-rich Oxbow Alfalfa Hay as the #1 ingredient, this formula delivers the energy and digestive support growing guinea pigs need. Balanced protein and calcium levels promote healthy muscle and bone development, while an elevated dose of stabilized Vitamin C (400 mg/kg) — more than the adult formula — supports the heightened immune needs of young animals. Completely free from artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors.
Like all Oxbow Essentials foods, this formula uses 100% uniform pellets to prevent selective eating and ensure every bite delivers complete, balanced nutrition. Formulated with the guidance of top small animal veterinarians and nutritionists.
Key Features
- #1 Ingredient: Alfalfa Hay — High-fiber, protein-rich legume hay fuels the energy and digestive needs of growing guinea pigs
- Higher Vitamin C (400 mg/kg) — Elevated dose supports the enhanced immune and growth needs of young guinea pigs and breeding sows
- Balanced Protein & Calcium — Support healthy muscle development and strong bone growth
- 100% Uniform Pellets — Prevents selective eating; every bite delivers complete, balanced nutrition
- 100% Daily Vitamins & Minerals — No additional supplementation needed during critical growth stages
- No Artificial Additives — Free from artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors
- Vet & Nutritionist Formulated — Developed with guidance from top small animal health experts
Ingredients
Alfalfa Meal, Soybean Hulls, Soybean Meal, Wheat Middlings, Soybean Oil, Salt, Lignin Sulfonate, Cane Molasses, Calcium Carbonate, L-Ascorbyl-2-Monophosphate (Vitamin C), Sodium Bentonite, Hydrolyzed Yeast, Choline Chloride, Vitamin E Supplement, Yeast Culture, Zinc Sulfate, Zinc Proteinate, Niacin, Copper Sulfate, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Manganous Oxide, Riboflavin Supplement, Biotin, Thiamine Mononitrate, Magnesium Sulfate, Copper Proteinate, Vitamin A Supplement, Sodium Selenite, Manganese Proteinate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Folic Acid, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Cobalt Carbonate, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Calcium Iodate
Guaranteed Analysis
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Crude Protein (min) | 18.00% |
| Crude Fat (min) | 2.50% |
| Crude Fiber (min) | 18.00% |
| Crude Fiber (max) | 23.00% |
| Moisture (max) | 10.00% |
| Calcium (min) | 0.60% |
| Calcium (max) | 1.10% |
| Phosphorus (min) | 0.25% |
| Vitamin A (min) | 10,000 IU/kg |
| Ascorbic Acid / Vitamin C (min) | 400 mg/kg |
| Vitamin D (min) | 900 IU/kg |
| Vitamin E (min) | 190 IU/kg |
Feeding Directions
Young Guinea Pigs (under 6 months) & Pregnant/Nursing Sows: Feed Essentials Young Guinea Pig free-choice daily, plus unlimited grass hay. Alfalfa hay may also be offered in small quantities alongside grass hay.
*These are guidelines. If your guinea pig is overweight or underweight, consult your veterinarian for more specific feeding information.
Transitioning to Essentials Young: Week 1 — 3 parts current food, 1 part new. Week 2 — equal parts. Week 3 — 1 part current, 3 parts new. Week 4 — feed Essentials Young Guinea Pig exclusively.
The Oxbow Difference
For over 30 years, Oxbow Animal Health has been the trusted name in small animal nutrition. Every Essentials formula is backed by rigorous nutritional science and formulated with the guidance of veterinarians and nutritionists who understand the unique, life-stage-specific needs of guinea pigs. From the first days of life through pregnancy, nursing, and beyond — Oxbow is with you and your guinea pig every step of the way.