Guinea Pig

Guinea pigs, also called cavies, are gentle, social, and highly communicative small pets that make wonderful companions for both children and adults. They rarely bite, are too big to be easily mishandled by young children, and they communicate with a delightful range of sounds — from purring and rumbling to loud wheeks when they hear the refrigerator door open. Guinea pigs are social animals and do best in pairs or small groups of the same sex. They can live 4 to 8 years with good care.

Hay is the most important part of a guinea pig's diet — they need unlimited access to fresh timothy hay every single day. It keeps their continuously growing teeth worn down and their gut moving. Supplement with a small amount of high-quality guinea pig pellets (plain, not muesli). Most importantly, guinea pigs cannot produce vitamin C on their own and need it supplemented daily through fresh vegetables. Bell peppers, leafy greens, kale, and parsley are excellent sources. Avoid foods high in sugar or starch. Fresh water must always be available.

Guinea pigs need significantly more space than their size suggests. A pair of guinea pigs needs at least a 7.5 square foot enclosure — a C&C (cube and coroplast) cage is ideal and cost-effective. Standard pet store cages are almost always too small. Provide deep, absorbent bedding such as fleece liners with an absorbent layer underneath, paper bedding, or kiln-dried pine. Add hides, tunnels, and foraging opportunities. Guinea pigs cannot climb, so a lidded enclosure is not necessary unless you have other pets.

Guinea pigs prefer temperatures between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They are sensitive to heat stroke above 80 degrees, particularly in high humidity. Keep them away from drafts, direct sunlight, and extreme temperature changes.

Guinea pigs are gentle and rarely bite when handled properly. Always support their hindquarters when picking them up, as dangling legs stress them greatly. Sit on the floor when handling to prevent falls. With regular gentle interaction, most guinea pigs become very comfortable with their owners and will approach, climb on laps, and vocalize happily. Bonded pairs or groups will also engage in social grooming and run and play together.

Vitamin C deficiency (scurvy) is a major concern if diet is not managed properly — symptoms include lethargy, swollen joints, and a rough coat. Dental disease (malocclusion), respiratory infections, mange mites, bladder stones, and bumblefoot (inflamed foot pads) are other common health issues. Regular vet visits with a small exotic vet are important, as guinea pigs are good at hiding illness.