Guinea pigs are cool...
...but they are NOT a beginner's pet!
Many people think of guinea pigs as great beginner pet options due to
their mild temperament, sociability, and vocal, expressive nature.
However, they have specific habitat, nutrition, social, and grooming
requirements and are susceptible to a variety of illnesses and
conditions often requiring diagnosis and treatment by a qualified exotic
veterinarian.
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Habitat
A single guinea pig requires a minimum of 7 square feet of living space. Each additional guinea pig requires 2 to 4 square feet of space to be added. Habitats should be chosen to provide adequate space for hideaways, play area, food/hay (multiple locations for multiple pigs), and good ventilation. Midwest and C&C are commonly used cages/habitats. The habitat should be kept indoors in a draft-free area with a temperature between 65° F and 75° F.
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Nutrition
Guinea pigs require a varied diet consisting of grass hay (80%) and vegetables and pellets (20%). Unlimited grass hay, such as timothy hay and/or orchard grass, should be available. Alfalfa hay should only be provided to pregnant, young, nursing, or malnourished individuals due to its high calcium content. Approximately one cup per day of fresh, clean vegetables should be provided for each guinea pig. These should primarily consist of leafy vegetables such as red leaf, green leaf, and romaine lettuce, but modest amounts of a variety of vegetables should be provided throughout the week. Some favorites include parsley, cilantro, tomato, bell pepper, carrot, and cucumber. It is important to pay attention to the oxalic acid and calcium content of vegetables, as these may contribute to formation of bladder stones in susceptible individuals. Fruit should be provided sparingly due to its high sugar content. Fresh, cold water should always be available. A diet which provides adequate vitamin C is important, as guinea pigs are incapable of manufacturing their own. Vitamin C can also be supplemented in tablets or liquid drops but should never be added to the water supply.
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Social Interaction
Guinea pigs are social creatures, and their health may suffer if kept in isolation. Males do best in pairs, while females may be kept in larger groups. A single, neutered male can also be housed with a group of females. Guinea pigs establish dominance hierarchies whether in pairs or in herds. Behaviors such as rumble strutting, territory marking, mounting, loud squealing, and nose offs are normal and expected as part of this process and during bonding. However, attacks in which blood is drawn warrant separation of individuals. Guinea pigs are intelligent cavies and may become bored or depressed without adequate social interaction and/or cognitive enrichment through toys/puzzles.
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Grooming
To maintain optimal health of a domesticated cavy, adequate grooming needs to be performed. Routine grooming for all breeds and sexes including clipping nails and cleaning ears should be performed every 1-2 months. Additionally, some experts recommend bathing every 3 months or so, but the necessity of bathing is widely debated. The grease gland located just above where a tail would be may also require cleaning in some individuals. Adult boars require cleaning of the anal sac to prevent impaction. Specific breeds may require additional grooming such as hair trimming or application of moisturizing lotion or oil to the skin. -
Veterinary Care
Guinea pigs are prone to a variety of health conditions which often require diagnosis and treatment by a veterinarian. Some more commonly encountered conditions include upper respiratory infections (URIs), ringworm, mites, lice, teeth issues, hay poke (eye infection), urinary tract issues, bloat/GI stasis, and bumblefoot. Prompt assessment by a qualified veterinarian experienced with exotic pets is critical to achieving the best possible prognosis.
Coded 💻 by Bri Franz-Jonas