The guinea pig, also known as a cavy or cuy, is a calm, sociable and very expressive pet. But it has very specific needs that aren't always well known. Here are the basics, based on the recommendations of exotic animal vets and animal welfare organizations such as the RSPCA and the PDSA.
1. Never alone
Guinea pigs are group animals. On their own they get bored, stressed and can even become depressed, so the ideal is to have at least two: two females, or a pair with a neutered male. In Switzerland, in fact, the law requires them to be kept with company.
What you shouldn't do is house them with a rabbit: rabbits are stronger, can hurt them without meaning to and can pass on diseases.
2. Floor space, not height
Guinea pigs hardly ever climb or jump: what they need is floor area to run around in. As a guide, a minimum of about 0.7 m² is recommended for two guinea pigs, and ideally more than 1 m². More space means more activity and better health.
- Multiple levels and ramps are of little use to them and can cause falls.
- Avoid wire floors: they damage their feet.
- Roomy enclosures with a solid base, set on the floor at home, are among the best things you can give them.
3. Unlimited hay
Hay is the foundation of their diet, around 80%. Their teeth never stop growing and hay wears them down; it also keeps their digestion moving. It should always be available, clean and fresh.
4. Fresh vegetables and vitamin C
Guinea pigs, just like us, can't produce vitamin C: they have to get it from their food. Without it they can fall ill (scurvy).
- Every day, a handful of mixed vegetables: bell pepper (red or green), parsley, lamb's lettuce, endive, arugula…
- A pellet food made specifically for guinea pigs, in small amounts.
- Fruit, only as a treat and once in a while.
What they should never eat
Iceberg lettuce, potato, onion, garlic, chocolate, dairy, bread, or mixes containing seeds or nuts.
5. Water, always
In a water bottle or a heavy bowl that won't tip over. Change it daily.
6. Good bedding
Absorbent and dust-free: paper bedding, hemp bedding or washable fleece liners, in a generous layer. Avoid untreated pine or cedar shavings, which irritate their airways. Clean the soiled areas daily and do a full clean once a week.
7. Hiding places
They are prey animals and need somewhere to take shelter. Provide at least one hideout per guinea pig, so they don't have to fight over it.
8. Not too cold, not too hot
They're comfortable between 18 and 24 °C. Heat affects them a lot: above about 26 °C they can suffer heatstroke. No direct sunlight or drafts.
9. Warning signs
If a guinea pig goes more than 12 hours without eating, it's an emergency: take it to an exotic animal vet. The same goes if you notice diarrhea, noisy breathing, weight loss, or if it's listless and hides all day.
Check its nails every few weeks (they grow a lot) and its teeth, and take it to the vet for a check-up once a year.
10. Patience and affection
At first they can be easily frightened. Talk to them softly, offer them vegetables from your hand and always pick them up with both hands, supporting their bottom well. In time they'll greet you with their "wheek, wheek" and even leap for joy, the famous popcorning.
A well-cared-for guinea pig lives between 5 and 8 years.
This article is general information. If you have any doubts about your guinea pig's health, consult your exotic animal vet.
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