GUINEA PIGS  

  • Guinea pigs live 6+ years. Adults weigh 1.5-2.5 lb.
  • They are very social and should be kept in pairs or groups.
  • Their front teeth and molars grow continuously.

 

Diet

Guinea pigs require unlimited amounts of hay, usually Timothy or Orchard Hay but should be offered a variety of different hays. Guinea pigs require a high fiber diet and will consume a pile of hay double the size of their entire body each day. Alfalfa hay is okay for young & growing Guinea pigs, pregnant and/or malnourished adults but should not be given on a regular basis otherwise due to high protein levels. Guinea pigs are also fed pelleted diet fortified with Vitamin C. They are unique in that they are the only mammal, other than primates, that do not metabolize Vitamin C from sunshine. Their diet needs to include a daily multi-vitamin with Vitamin C supplement and occasional fresh vegetables. Provide a constant supply of fresh water in a water dish and/or water bottle.  

Housing  

Guinea pigs can be kept in larger cages. Minimum size is 10.5 sq. ft. of unbroken floor space for a pair of guinea pigs of the same sex. Male guinea pigs can be territorial, so a larger cage may be required to avoid bickering. A top on the cage isn't necessary, as Guinea pigs don't jump or climb; the top is more to keep other household pets from hurting the pig. A layer of bedding or fleece should cover the bottom. A litter box with pelleted litter or bedding can be used with some pigs. Add hay inside, or just above, the litter box for best results. Do not use cedar or pine shavings, which contain aromatic oils that can lead to respiratory problems. A covered hiding space/den provides a sense of security and a favorite place to sleep. Locate the cage in a draft-free, 65-75ºF area close to household activities and out of direct sunlight. Clean the cage daily. Damp and/or dirty bedding can cause a condition called bumble foot, which negatively affects their feet, causing wounds.

Handling & Care

Guinea pigs are social animals. They do well when kept in pairs, or groups, of the same gender that have been raised together. Guinea pigs are easy to handle. Gently scoop the animal’s stomach into the palm of your hand, while placing your other hand over the animal's back and lift. Exercise wheels and balls are not recommended, as they don’t tend to enjoy them and have potential to injure their spine, legs or feet. If you’re considering breeding your Guinea pig, please research this decision thoroughly. They have some very specific care & breeding needs in order to be successful. Provide many items for Guinea pigs to chew on and forage for. Foraging for food promotes positive mental health for Guinea pigs and many other animals!

Grooming

Comb daily to remove loose hair and reduce shedding. Clip nails monthly. Bathing guinea pigs is not necessary, but if your pig is especially dirty you can bathe them with a shampoo formulated for small animals. Use a shallow amount of water and dry thoroughly before returning them to their home. Some Guinea pigs have long hair, which should be trimmed to keep it from dragging and getting wet & dirty, causing harmful bacteria to grow.

Health

Guinea Pigs require additional Vitamin C supplementation or they can become deficient. This can lead to Scurvy, a very painful disease and, if left untreated, could be fatal.  Guinea pigs are healthy when they have bright eyes, soft fur, have well-formed droppings and are active. A sick pet can go downhill quickly. Weigh weekly and record to alert you of any weight loss, often the first sign of any illness. Contact your veterinarian if you notice weight loss or any of these symptoms:

  • Refusal to eat or drink
  • Overgrown teeth
  • Labored breathing, wheezing, sneezing
  • Diarrhea or blood in urine
  • Dull and/or receding eyes
  • Inactive / Lethargic
  • Limping / Loss of balance
  • Head tilt
  • Excessive hair loss / scratching
  • Rough hair coat