Guinea Pigs

By Jennifer Herne, LVT

It is always a good idea to research a pet before you acquire that specific kind of animal. Before choosing a pet you should always want to know what its need will be and if you can provide the specific care for that pet. I have always wanted a Guinea pig, they are small and don't require as much room as a German shepherd would. Here is a little bit of information from the ASPCA about the guinea pig, just in case you are considering getting one.

Guinea pigs, or cavies, are small mammals native to South America. They first came to Europe about 400 years ago. Guinea pigs are often calm and docile, but still make lively pets. They are vocal when excited and will make a variety of sounds when they see their favorite people or when the fridge door is opened (they love treats!). Guinea pigs weigh about 1.5 to 2.5 pounds, and males are typically larger than the females. Guinea pigs rarely bite and are good pets for children who are old enough to handle them carefully and treat them with respect. The three most common breeds of guinea pig are the Smooth-Coated, with short, glossy fur; the Abyssinian, whose hair grows in fluffy tufts all over the body, and the Peruvian, with long, silky hair that flows to the ground.

Guinea pigs need a minimum of eight square feet of floor space in their cages. They are very social and will be happier if housed with another guinea pig, but this doubles the amount of space that they will need in their cages. Guinea pigs have sensitive paw pads and need solid flooring. They cannot be housed in a wire-bottomed cage.

When guinea pigs are frightened, they either freeze in place or run away, and they prefer to have a hiding place in their cage. Plastic tubes and wooden or woven hay boxes are available in pet supply stores. A good, free alternative is using a cardboard box with the bottom cut out of it. Many guinea pigs love to chew on cardboard boxes and, while you may need to replace it regularly, this chewing will help keep their teeth worn down to a good length. Small pieces of untreated wood can also be provided to help satisfy your guinea pig's need to chew and keep their teeth from getting overgrown as well. Bedding should be changed a minimum of twice weekly to keep your guinea pig healthy. You should only use paper or pine bedding for your guinea pig, cedar shavings can be toxic. Make sure that your guinea pig doesn't get overheated or chilled, as they are susceptible to both. In general, if you are comfortable, they are probably at a safe and comfortable temperature. Most guinea pigs require very little grooming. They can be brushed with a soft bristled baby brush every other week. Commercial guinea pig pellets should make up the bulk of your pet's diet. Nutritionally complete, they're available at pet supply stores, and are made from plants, seeds and veggies. Feed your guinea pigs twice daily, in the morning and in the evening.

The ASPCA recommends offering small amounts of fresh fruit and vegetables to your guinea pigs every day. Try grapes, cucumbers, corn, peas, carrots and pears. Half a handful of veggies and a slice of fresh fruit per pig is plenty. Always make sure to clean up any leftover fresh food before it spoils. You'll also need to make grass hay available to your pets at all times. It's great for the digestive system, and will also satisfy your pet's need to gnaw. Unlike other animals, guinea pigs cannot manufacture Vitamin C, so you'll need to ensure that your pets get enough of this essential nutrient every day. A quarter of an orange will do, but you can also include some fruits and veggies that are high in C to their daily ration of fresh foods, such as kale, dandelion greens and strawberries. Fresh, clean water should be available at all times. Use an inverted bottle with a drinking tube, and change the water daily.

Total Cost of Guinea Pig Ownership per year: $550-$800. Make sure you visit your local pet supply store for treats and toys!