Guinea Pigs & Pine Cones

[Lily & the Boars]

I recently prepared my first batch of pine cones straight from the woods in our backyard as a chew toy for my bunnies and pigs since we've been running low on enrichment lately. To clean them I followed the instructions given for rabbits since there doesn't seem to be much knowledge on the internet from guinea pig owners. The process was: soak the cones in warm water and vinegar, rinse, let dry for a few days, and bake at 200° for 45 mins to finish sanitizing.

Two of my boars absolutely were hooked on the cones the second I offered them. I had expected them to simply chew away at the wood but really they were just eating the cones, tearing through them like woodchucks. After a few minutes I took the cones out because I wasn't sure whether it was ok for them to be ingesting the pine cones, or at least that much at one time.

Anyone familiar with this or have advice? Is it ok to let them have what is apparently their new favorite toy (or treat?)?

 

[AMMAH]

I don't think guinea pigs can have pine cones. I think pine is toxic so I wouldn't risk it with any animals that might eat them.
I am sure someone will give you a more definitive answer though

 

[Swissgreys]

I also wouldn't risk giving pine to guinea pigs as the resins can be toxic.
Mine also love chewing but we go with fruit twigs (non stone fruits only) and willow.

 

[Lily & the Boars]

Thanks, I'm finding the search for pine cone resins very difficult. Do you have a source?