Are you considering adding a guinea pig to your family? These adorable, social rodents can make wonderful pets, but there’s more to them than meets the eye. Did you know that guinea pigs are neither from Guinea nor related to pigs?
In fact, they originated in the Andes mountains of South America, where they were first domesticated around 5000 BCE.1
Before bringing a guinea pig home, it’s essential to understand their unique needs and characteristics. Here are 15 facts about guinea pigs that every potential owner should know.
1. Guinea Pigs are Social Creatures
Guinea pigs are highly social animals that thrive in the company of their own kind. In the wild, they live in herds and rely on each other for companionship, grooming, and protection. As pets, guinea pigs should always be kept in pairs or small groups to ensure their emotional well-being.
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When housing multiple guinea pigs together, keeping them in same-sex pairs or groups is best to avoid unwanted breeding. Females can be kept together harmoniously, as can males, but introducing them at a young age is crucial for successful bonding.
If you cannot commit to caring for more than one guinea pig, it might be best to consider a different pet.
2. They Have a Long Lifespan
Before bringing a guinea pig home, it’s essential to understand that they are a long-term commitment. Guinea pigs have an average lifespan of 5 to 7 years, with some individuals even reaching 8 years or more with proper care.(ref)
This means that you’ll need to provide a stable, loving home for your guinea pig for several years. Consider your future plans and whether you’ll be able to dedicate the necessary time, space, and resources to your pet over the long haul.
3. Guinea Pigs Need a Spacious Cage
One of the most common misconceptions about guinea pigs is that they can be housed in small, cramped cages.
In reality, guinea pigs require a spacious living area to ensure their physical and mental well-being. A pair of guinea pigs should have a cage that measures at least 7.5 square feet, while males need a minimum of 10 square feet of unbroken floor space.
When selecting a cage for your guinea pigs, opt for a model with a solid floor and plenty of room for exercise, hiding spots, and toys. Avoid wire-bottom cages, as they can cause foot injuries and are uncomfortable for your pets.
Consider creating a homemade cage using storage cubes and coroplast, as this allows you to customize the size and layout to suit your guinea pigs’ needs.
4. A Balanced Diet is Essential
Guinea pigs have specific dietary requirements that must be met to ensure their health and longevity. The foundation of a guinea pig’s diet should be unlimited timothy hay or orchard grass, which aids in digestion and helps wear down their continuously growing teeth.
In addition to hay, guinea pigs should be offered a variety of fresh vegetables daily, amounting to about 1 cup per pig. Leafy greens, bell peppers, and carrots are excellent choices.
Supplement their diet with a small amount of high-quality guinea pig pellets (about 1/8 cup per pig per day) to ensure they receive essential vitamins and minerals. Always provide clean, fresh water in a heavy ceramic bowl or water bottle.
5. Vitamin C is Crucial
Unlike most mammals, guinea pigs cannot synthesize their own vitamin C, making it an essential part of their diet. Without adequate vitamin C, guinea pigs can develop scurvy, a potentially life-threatening condition characterized by lethargy, loss of appetite, and joint pain.
To prevent vitamin C deficiency, offer your guinea pigs a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables high in this nutrient, such as bell peppers, kale, and parsley. You can also provide a vitamin C supplement in their water or food, following the recommended dosage provided by your veterinarian.
6. Regular Grooming is a Must
Guinea pigs require regular grooming to maintain their coat and overall health. Short-haired breeds should be brushed at least once a week, while long-haired varieties may need daily grooming to prevent tangles and mats.
Guinea pigs also need their nails trimmed every few weeks to prevent overgrowth and potential injury. If you’re uncomfortable trimming your pet’s nails yourself, consult with a veterinarian or experienced guinea pig groomer for guidance.
7. They Need Time outside the Cage
While a spacious cage is essential, guinea pigs also need daily exercise and exploration time outside their enclosure. Dedicate a safe, guinea pig-proofed area for your pets to stretch their legs and engage in natural behaviors like running, hiding, and foraging.
Supervise your guinea pigs during the out-of-cage time to ensure they stay safe and do not chew on anything harmful. Provide a variety of toys and hiding spots to keep them mentally stimulated and encourage physical activity.
8. Guinea Pigs are Quiet… Sometimes
Guinea pigs are generally quiet pets, making them suitable for apartments or homes with noise restrictions. However, they do vocalize when excited, hungry, or seeking attention. Common guinea pig sounds include squeaks, purrs, and whistles.
While guinea pigs are not typically noisy at night, they may occasionally run around or play with their toys. If you’re a light sleeper, consider keeping their cage in a room away from your bedroom to minimize disturbances.
9. They’re Not Always Low-Maintenance
Despite their small size, guinea pigs are not low-maintenance pets. They require daily feeding, fresh water, and spot-cleaning to keep their cage tidy. Guinea pigs can produce up to 100 droppings per day, so regular waste removal is crucial to maintain a healthy living environment.
In addition to daily care, guinea pigs need weekly cage deep-cleaning, regular nail trims, and occasional baths. Before bringing a guinea pig home, ensure you have the time and resources to provide the necessary care and attention they deserve.
10. Veterinary Care is Important
Just like any other pet, guinea pigs require regular veterinary check-ups to maintain their health and catch any potential issues early on. It’s essential to find a veterinarian experienced in treating exotic pets, as guinea pigs have unique health needs.
Common health issues in guinea pigs include dental problems, respiratory infections, skin conditions, and vitamin C deficiency. By scheduling annual check-ups and seeking prompt veterinary care when needed, you can help ensure your guinea pig lives a long, healthy life.
11. Guinea Pigs Have Unique Personalities
Each guinea pig has its own distinct personality, which can range from shy and reserved to outgoing and adventurous. Some guinea pigs enjoy being held and cuddled, while others prefer to explore their surroundings independently.
When selecting a guinea pig, spend time observing their behavior and interacting with them to find a good match for your lifestyle and preferences. Keep in mind that it may take some time for your new pet to warm up to you, so be patient and gentle during the bonding process.
12. They’re Not Ideal for Young Children
While guinea pigs can make wonderful pets for families, they may not be the best choice for very young children. Guinea pigs are delicate animals that can easily be injured if handled roughly or dropped. They also have specific care requirements that may be too much responsibility for young kids.
If you’re considering a guinea pig for your child, ensure that an adult is primarily responsible for the animal’s care and supervises all interactions between the child and the pet. Teach your child how to handle the guinea pig gently and respect their need for rest and alone time.
13. Guinea Pigs Need Mental Stimulation
As intelligent creatures, guinea pigs require mental stimulation to prevent boredom and stress. Providing a variety of toys, tunnels, and hiding spots can help keep your pet engaged and encourage natural foraging behaviors.
Rotate toys regularly to maintain your guinea pig’s interest, and offer puzzle feeders or scatter their food to encourage problem-solving skills. Spending quality time with your pet through gentle petting, lap time, and supervised exploration can also help meet their social and mental needs.
14. Allergies are a Consideration
While guinea pigs themselves are not a common allergen, some people may be allergic to their hay or bedding. If you or a family member has a history of allergies, spend time around guinea pigs before bringing one home to see if any reactions occur.
If allergies are a concern, consider using alternative bedding materials like fleece or paper-based products and opt for dust-extracted hay to minimize airborne allergens. Regular cage cleaning and good ventilation can also help reduce allergy triggers in your home.
15. Adopting is Better Than Buying
When you’re ready to bring a guinea pig into your life, consider adopting from a local animal shelter or rescue organization instead of buying from a pet store. Many guinea pigs end up in shelters due to owner surrender or abandonment, and they deserve a second chance at a loving home.
Adopting a guinea pig not only saves a life but also helps reduce the demand for pet store animals, which can come from inhumane breeding facilities. Plus, shelter staff can help you find a guinea pig that matches your lifestyle and provide valuable care advice.
Guinea pigs can make wonderful, affectionate pets for those willing to provide the necessary care and attention. By understanding their unique needs and committing to being a responsible owner, you can ensure your guinea pig lives a happy, healthy life as a cherished member of your family.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.