SKINNY PIG (Hairless Guinea Pig)  

  • Skinny pigs have existed for less than 50 years!
  • Hairless guinea pigs will live between 5-6 years on average.
  • They are very easy to handle and appreciate routines.
  • Skinny pigs are hypoallergenic.
  • Optimal temperatures for skinny pigs range from 75-79 degrees
  • The animals can even purr. Skinny pigs can be much noisier than their furred counterparts!
  • Skinny pigs have a higher metabolism and need to eat more frequently.
  • Their front teeth and molars grow continuously.
  • Males are boars, females are sows, and babies are pups.
  • Guinea pigs have 4 toes on their front feet, 3 toes on their hind feet.
  • The term for bucking and throwing themselves into the air when happy is “popcorning”.

Diet

Guinea pigs are primarily fed a hay and 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 should also be supplemented with a daily Vitamin C and occasional fresh vegetables. Provide a constant supply of fresh water in a water bottle. It is best to offer a variety of hay types. Guinea pigs require a high fiber diet and will consume a pile of hay that equals the size of their entire body each day. Hairless Guinea Pigs also tend to eat more to maintain their metabolism and body heat.

Housing  

Hairless guinea pigs should be housed indoors. They may however be outdoors occasionally if weather permits. You should provide adequate shelter at all times. Your guinea pig/pigs should not be in direct sunlight or where the temperatures can rise to extreme measures. Keep their cage away from any drafts and direct sunlight. Although, guinea pigs need 12-14 hours of light daily, you may provide artificial light if necessary.

Handling & Care

Their care is much like that of other guinea pigs. However, due to a lack of coat, they are a bit more sensitive to temperature extremes and must be protected from drafts as well as direct sunlight.

Grooming

As long as you keep their environment clean and dry, they will be clean. Clip nails monthly. We suggest using organic extra virgin olive oil for their skin. You can wipe them when their skin is flaky and dry with organic baby wipes that contain aloe.

Health

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