Is A Guinea Pig The Right Pet For You?

 

Guinea pigs are wonderful little rodents that were domesticated in South America. There are three common species that are seen as pets: short-haired English/American, Abyssinian (with short, coarse hair that grows in whorls), and Peruvian (with long hair). They range in color from white to brown to black and combinations as well. If properly cared for, the average lifespan of a guinea pig is about 4-6 years.

 

There are a few things one should keep in mind when considering getting a guinea pig. Instead of possessing the “fight or flight” response to danger, they hold a “freeze or flight” response whereas they either become immobile or make an explosive attempt to escape if faced with a danger. Guinea pigs can by quite fussy eaters, and once their dietary preference is established, it usually does not change much. They cannot produce vitamin C on their own, so it must be supplemented into their diet, usually into their water; this is very important.

 

 As far as housing a guinea pig, one should provide a large, solid bottomed cage, as opposed to wire mesh as their little feet can get caught and cause damage. They tend to throw their bedding around when they run, so having a high-sided cage may be a good idea. For bedding, shredded paper or corncob bedding is good to use. Try to avoid very aromatic beddings like cedar or pine shavings, as this can be bad for the guinea pig’s respiratory system. Offer him or her a place to hide, such as an upside down shoe box with a hole cut into it; they enjoy this. Guinea pigs should be fed guinea pig pellets and alfalfa or grass hay supplemented with fresh vegetables. In addition, fresh water should also be available at all times. Remember the vitamin C supplement. The home should be kept in an area out of direct sunlight at about 65*-79*F.

 

As with any animal, keeping the toenails trimmed is necessary, and if done from the time the guinea pig is young, should be a fairly simple task. Their teeth may also need to be trimmed, which is something that should be left do a veterinarian. Keeping all of this information in mind will allow you go have a happy and properly cared for guinea pig.

Jess VanCamp