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Are you ready for a Guinea Pig?
Guinea Pigs make great pets with their gentle nature and lively temperament. They really are pets the whole family can enjoy. Male guinea pigs are called Boars, female guinea pigs are called Sows and baby guinea pigs are called Piglets. Don’t be fooled by their size, they are still a big commitment and will require a lot of attention throughout their life. Guinea Pigs have an expected life span from around 5 -8 years, although the longest living guinea pig was recorded at 14 years old. Once you are certain you and your family can provide a loving and long lasting home for your guinea pig you must consider the following factors.
Selecting your Guinea Pig
Buying my Guinea Pig
It is advisable to buy your guinea pig from a reputable pet shop or breeder. Please also consider that there are many re-homing centres where you can give a guinea pig a second chance.
Which breed?
There are three main types of breeds, the short -haired known as the American, the Abyssinian, which is fluffy, and the Peruvian longhaired guinea pig.
Do your research on each breed. Consider that a longhaired guinea pig will need grooming on a daily basis to ensure a well-maintained coat. It is important to know that guinea pigs are quite noisy animals; they have their own little squeaky language, which can vary from faint to loud.
What to look for
Your guinea pig should be alert and active; their coat should be full and soft and free of any skin irritations, redness or parasites. Their eyes should be bright and dry and their teeth should not be overgrown. A healthy guinea pig is a bubbly and curious little creature.
Rabbits and Guinea Pigs together
Rabbits and guinea pigs should not live together. Rabbits can become dominant and either injure a guinea pig or not allow them to eat. They also have slightly different nutritional requirements.
One or two?
As guinea pigs are sociable animals it is advisable to buy two rather than one. House the same sex pairs together, unless the male has been neutered. Males can become dominant over each other so it is recommended to neuter them or home a single male.
Do your homework
Do your research on each breed. Consider that a longhaired guinea pig will need grooming on a daily basis to ensure a well-maintained coat. It is important to know that guinea pigs are quite noisy animals; they have their own little squeaky language, which can vary from faint to loud.
At home with your Guinea Pig
You are finally ready to take your new guinea pig home. Guinea pigs enjoy affection from adults and and are happiest living in pairs.
Outdoors
Guinea Pigs really do not like the cold; therefore in the winter months consider bringing them inside to a unused garage or shed. Ensure that your hutch is large enough with a run and separate sleep and hide area. Keep the hutch out of direct sunlight and protected from draughts.
Indoors
Is a very popular choice for housing your new pet. A large plastic cage is advised, ensuring a large enough place for your guinea pigs comfort. It is advised to handle your pet regularly, place them away from noise, direct sunlight and draughts.
Diet
Layer the hutch or cage with newspaper and cover with wood shavings and add a thick layer of hay on top.
For both indoor and outdoor guinea pigs ensure to clean the cages at least twice a week and use a pet safe disinfectant at least twice a month.
Allow your guinea pig 24 hours to settle into their new surroundings without handling them. This will allow them to relax and get used to their new home without too much stress.