Guinea Pig #60383

Guinea Pig

Guinea pigs can be wonderful pets, but they do require attention and care. Here’s a basic rundown of what you’ll need to know before owning one:

1. Housing

• Cage Size: Guinea pigs need space to roam, so the bigger the cage, the better. At a minimum, a cage should be at least 7.5 square feet for one guinea pig, and larger if you have more. Avoid wire floors because they can hurt their feet.
• Bedding: Use soft bedding like paper-based or aspen shavings. Avoid cedar or pine, as the oils can be harmful.
• Temperature: Keep them in a cool area (65°F to 75°F or 18°C to 24°C) because they don’t tolerate extreme temperatures well.

2. Diet

• Hay: Fresh hay should be the main part of their diet. Timothy hay is common and healthy for guinea pigs.
• Fresh Veggies: They love leafy greens like kale, spinach, and bell peppers. Make sure they get vitamin C-rich foods because guinea pigs can’t produce vitamin C on their own.
• Pellets: Provide high-quality guinea pig pellets, but don’t overdo it. They should be used in moderation, along with fresh veggies and hay.
• Fresh Water: Always have fresh water available, ideally in a hanging water bottle.

3. Socialization

• Guinea pigs are social animals and thrive in pairs or small groups. It’s better to get at least two, preferably of the same sex unless you’re prepared to handle breeding. They can form strong bonds and communicate with each other.

4. Exercise

• Guinea pigs need time outside their cage for exercise and mental stimulation. You can let them roam in a safe, guinea pig-proofed area, or provide them with tunnels and toys in their cage.

5. Grooming

• Brushing: Depending on the breed, guinea pigs may need regular grooming. Long-haired breeds, for instance, require more frequent brushing.
• Nail Clipping: They need their nails trimmed every few weeks.
• Bathing: Guinea pigs don’t need frequent baths. If you do bathe them, use a pet-safe shampoo.

6. Health Considerations

• Regularly check for signs of illness like changes in appetite, behavior, or weight. They are prone to dental problems, so make sure they have plenty of chew toys to keep their teeth healthy.
• They can also develop respiratory issues, especially if kept in dusty or poorly ventilated environments.

7. Life Span

• Guinea pigs typically live for 4 to 6 years, but with good care, some can live into their 7-8 years.

8. Cost

• Guinea pigs are fairly affordable to care for, but you will need to budget for ongoing costs like bedding, food, and occasional vet visits.