Gem Lettuces or little gem lettuces are very small Romaine (Cos) lettuces that will grow 5 to 8 inches (13 to 20 cm) within 70 days of planting.

The leaves are the same color as Romaine, but a bit more tender.

They are often sold with most of the outer leaves removed, leaving just the lettuce heart.

Little Gem is a good lettuce for home gardeners to grow, especially in container gardening

This is because it can fit into small spots, and stands up well to summer heat while other lettuces would have bolted. (source)

Can guinea pigs eat gem lettuce?

Unfortunately, guinea pigs are unable to eat any kind of lettuce due to the sheer amount of water that they contain.

There is too much in lettuce for them to handle and it may give them bloat should they eat it.

It is a food to avoid feeding them, and that means all lettuces.

Lettuce seems to be a popular choice to feed guinea pigs as it can often be misconstrued as being a favorite food to give them.

This is understandable given its nature and texture, and they certain munch it all down if they are given it.

But it won’t be good for them at all, unfortunately.

For more foods that guinea pigs can and can’t eat, check out our guinea pig food list.