Versele-Laga Complete Cavia, 1.75 kg is a complete pelleted food from the Belgian brand Versele-Laga for guinea pigs. The all-in-one pellets are based on timothy hay and other herbs, contain at least 20% crude fibre and stabilised vitamin C, which doesn't break down in storage. It also contains linseed, a source of omega-3, FOS prebiotics and yucca extract to reduce odour. The food is low in calories, and long silica-rich fibres help wear down teeth.
What it is and who makes it
Versele-Laga is a Belgian maker of food for rodents, birds and small animals. The Complete range consists of extruded pellets of identical composition: a guinea pig can't pick out the tasty bits as with seed mixes and gets all the nutrients it needs. The food is packed with inert gas to preserve freshness and vitamins.
What's in it
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Timothy hay and herbs | At least 20% fibre, tooth wear |
| Stabilised vitamin C | Essential for guinea pigs, doesn't break down in storage |
| Linseed | Omega-3 for skin and coat |
| FOS | Supports gut flora |
| Yucca schidigera | Less odour from droppings |
| Vitamins and minerals | Immunity, balanced calcium and phosphorus |
See the pack for the full ingredient list and analysis.
Pros
- Vitamin C. Stabilised form in every pellet.
- High fibre. At least 20% for digestion and protection against hairballs.
- All-in-one pellets. No selective eating.
- For teeth. Long silica-rich fibres help wear down incisors and molars.
- Low calorie. Helps manage weight.
Cons and what to keep in mind
- No full analysis in the description. Check protein and vitamin C on the pack.
- Doesn't replace hay. Hay is the basis of the diet; pellets are a supplement.
- Fresh vegetables needed. Food vitamin C isn't enough during illness or pregnancy — add vegetables and greens.
- Adjustment. Guinea pigs used to seed mixes need a gradual switch.
How to feed a guinea pig
- Hay — unlimited and always fresh.
- Pellets — small portions per the pack's guidance, usually morning and evening.
- Fresh vegetables and greens daily: bell pepper, parsley, lettuce, carrot, cucumber.
- Fresh water in a bottle at all times.
- No sweets, bread, dairy or seeds.
More in guinea pig care and feeding and hay for rabbits and guinea pigs.
Why vitamin C matters so much
Guinea pigs, like humans, can't make vitamin C. Without enough, they develop scurvy: lethargy, poor appetite, bleeding gums, painful joints and a dull coat. Growing, pregnant and sick guinea pigs need especially high amounts. Vitamin C-enriched food covers the basic need, and fresh vegetables and, if needed, rodent vitamins cover the rest. Vitamins and treats are in rodent vitamins and treats.
Who it suits
Adult guinea pigs as their main pellet alongside unlimited hay and fresh vegetables, especially those that pick only the tasty bits out of mixes. Chinchillas have their own pellets — for example, Beaphar Care+ Chinchilla. Other foods are in food for ferrets and rodents.
Verdict
Versele-Laga Complete Cavia is a timothy-based all-in-one pellet with at least 20% fibre and stabilised vitamin C — a convenient basis for a guinea pig's diet. A complete diet also means unlimited hay, fresh vegetables and water.
Signs something is wrong
Guinea pigs hide illness for a long time, so small details matter. Warning signs: your guinea pig stops eating hay or pellets, sits hunched in a corner, loses weight, has a wet chin and drooling (often dental problems), soft or no droppings, or discharge from the eyes and nose. Weigh your guinea pig weekly — weight loss is an early signal. If it refuses food for more than a day, see an exotic-pet vet urgently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the food contain vitamin C?
Yes, in a stabilised form that doesn't break down in storage.
Is hay needed if there are pellets?
Yes, hay is the basis of a guinea pig's diet.
How much fibre does it contain?
At least 20%.
Can rabbits eat it?
No, rabbits have a separate food, Complete Cuni.
How do I switch from a seed mix?
Gradually, over 1–2 weeks, mixing with the old food.
Should I give vegetables?
Yes, daily — they add vitamin C and variety.
