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Is a guinea pig the right pet for you?
Guinea pigs are friendly and easily tamed but they require commitment and
regular attention. Long-haired guinea pigs can be especially hard to look
after. Before you think about getting a pet you should think very hard about
whether you can provide everything it needs.
What do guinea pigs need?
Companionship from other guinea pigs.
Feeding twice a day with a mixture of
meadow hay, pellets, washed fruit and vegetables.
A constant supply of fresh, clean water
in a drip-feed bottle with a metal spout.
A large weatherproof home that is kept
off the ground, out of direct sunlight and strong winds.
A separate covered sleeping area for each
animal inside the home.
A clean layer of wood shavings on the
floor of their home with plenty of hay or shredded paper.
Daily exercise in a large, grassy area,
safe from predators.
Their home cleaned every day and their
bedding changed every week.
A gnawing block.
To be combed every day if they have a
long coat.
To be neutered at an early age. Ask your
vet for advice.
Injections to prevent serious diseases.
To be taken to a veterinary surgeon if
they are ill or injured.
To be looked after when you are away on
holiday.
Guinea Pigs can live for up to ten years.
Lifespan
Guinea pigs can live for up to ten years.
Behaviour
In the wild, guinea pigs live in large social groups. It is unkind to keep
one guinea pig on its own. However, two adult guinea pigs that don't know
each other may fight. It is best to choose two young litter mates of the
same sex.
Rabbits and guinea pigs may live happily together if introduced when very
young.
Handling
Approach the guinea pig from the front. Pick it up using both hands, one
around the hindquarters, the other around its shoulders (for a young guinea
pig) or its chest (for an adult).
Guinea pigs may become upset by too much handling.
Breeding
The RSPCA strongly advises that you do not breed from your guinea pigs as it
is very difficult to find good homes for the young.
Health
Guinea pigs should be checked regularly for overgrown claws and teeth. Both
can be trimmed by a veterinary surgeon if necessary.
 Too
much scratching results from skin problems and is often caused by lice or
mites. Your veterinary surgeon can provide suitable treatment.
Long haired guinea pigs in particular may suffer from the potentially fatal
disease flystrike, cause by flies laying eggs in soiled fur. To avoid this,
make sure the guinea pig's home is cleaned every day and their bedding
changed regularly. Groom guinea pigs every day, checking their fur all over
for any dirt, especially under the tail.
If a guinea pig develops bald patches this could be the fungal disease
ringworm. Seek veterinary advice immediately. This disease can be passed to
humans.
Food
Guinea pigs can suffer from vitamin C deficiency, which causes weight loss,
general weakness and swollen joints. Like people, guinea pigs cannot make
Vitamin C and need to eat fresh greens every day.
Download a pdf
version of 'Is a guinea pig the right pet?'
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