Can guinea pigs eat potatoes?
The Swiss animal welfare society says potatoes are poisonous to guinea pigs, and the Royal Veterinary College lists them among poisonous plants.
Good to know: The skin and plant don’t belong in the bowl either (PDSA, Woodgreen).
Did your guinea pig eat some?
Call your vet or an emergency vet clinic right away, ideally one that treats guinea pigs. Tell them what your guinea pig ate, how much and when.
- Outside office hours, an emergency vet clinic near you can help.
- Take the packaging or a leftover with you.
Better choices, for example
Questions
My guinea pig ate potatoes. What should I do?
Call your vet or an emergency vet clinic right away, even if your guinea pig seems fine. Tell them what it ate, how much and when.
Can rabbits eat potatoes?
Better not. The RSPCA lists potatoes, raw or cooked, among foods rabbits shouldn’t eat. Merck lists potato eyes, new shoots and green parts as toxic.
Sources
- Schweizer Tierschutz STS – Merkblatt Meerschweinchen
- Royal Veterinary College – Feeding your guinea pig (2020)
- PDSA – Your guinea pigs’ diet
- Woodgreen Pets Charity – Poisonous food and plants for guinea pigs
Last checked: October 2026