Is A Guinea Pig For You?

Guinea Pigs were domesticated more than 500 years ago in South America. They were first brought to Europe in the 1500's, making their way into the homes of the wealthy as novelty pets. Today they’ve made their way into the hearts and homes of many families.

Cavies (the proper name of guinea pigs) come in a variety of colours and hair types, but it is their personality and behaviour that make them so appealing. The sounds that cavies make are one of the most enjoyable aspects of living wit them. They are certainly not quiet pets. They communicate by squeaks, rumbles and rattles. Some cavies are more talkative than others you may often hear a soft, rhythmic burbling as they move around happily from one place to another.

Cavies are extremely social animals who thrive in the company of other pigs. Many animal shelters prefer to place them as a same-sex or neutered pair, or as companions to others in single or multiple cavy homes. Cavies in groups are more vocal and more interesting to observe. Compatibility between two guinea pigs is determined by the personalities of the individual rather than the gender. Some will fight, but most enjoy having a companion.

The easiest match is usually between two babies or a baby and an adult, but adults can be paired successfully as well (www.cavyspirit.com supplies information on how to introduce two or more guinea pigs, neutering, and much more).

Guinea pigs, like humans, require a source of vitamin C in their diet. Fresh clean water, soft grass hay, and plain dye-free pellets formulated with vitamin C especially for guinea pigs should always be available. Small amounts of fresh vegetables are an important additional source of vitamin C and other nutrients. Parsley, romaine lettuce, a small piece of carrot, tomato and green pepper are popular choices. Remember that cavies are strict herbivores and should not be fed dairy or meat products. Unlimited high-quality grass hay, like timothy or orchard grass, is an important part of a cavy’s diet and should always be available.

Adequate space is important to the happiness and well-being of guinea pigs. Cavies introduced to large cages reportedly show their approval by “popcorning” - a term for bucking and/or throwing themselves into the air when they’re happy. More space in multiple-pig households means that getting along is easier. Bedding material should be changed every few days, and should be spot-cleaned daily. Avoid cedar shavings - cedar is not recommended for any small animal.

If you are considering adding a guinea pig to your family, please realize that they are not low-maintenance pets.

Daily care and feeding of guinea pigs can be time consuming, and bedding and hay are messy. Guinea pigs also require routine nail clipping, regular grooming and occasional ear cleaning. A cavy may live as long as 10 years (the average is five to seven). Cavies can be good pets for children over the age of six when parents supervise their handling and care. Small children should not be allowed to carry a guinea pig. Since noticing changes in a cavy is so important to their health and well-being, and adult must be involved in day-t-day care and have a strong commitment to the animal. Most pets can coexist with a cavy if care is taken to ensure the guinea pigs’ safety.

Never leave a guinea pig unattended in the presence of a dog, cat, ferret, or other predatory animal.

Guinea pigs are not for everyone, and they’re definitely not just for kids! An informed, committed guardian who is willing to invest the time in daily care and the expense of health care when needed will find them very charming companions.

Internet Resources

www.guinealynx.info
Advice on general care, medical care, and nutrition.

www.cavycages.com
Advice on bedding and housing, with simple directions for constructing large cages.

Adoption Sources

www.petfinder.com
Select “small and furry” for guinea pigs.

www.cavyrescue.com
A worldwide list of cavy rescues and searchable database of adoptable guinea pigs

<< Back to Small Animal Articles