Caring for a Guinea Pig
The guinea pig's endearing personality provides delightful companionship for both adults and families. Once settled in their new home, they are inquisitive, friendly, and talkative. They are social animals, so living with at least one guinea pig friend of the same sex is recommended.
General Care
Most guinea pigs love to be petted once they are on your lap, but they are cautious about being picked up. Children should be supervised when holding a guinea pig and taught not to hug it tightly or allow the guinea pig to fall or jump. Guinea pigs are easily injured and may nip if not treated kindly. Regular exercise outside the cage is essential and great fun for the whole family!
Housing
Guinea pigs should be kept safe indoors and need as large a cage as possible, with room to exercise. Aquariums are not suitable due to poor ventilation. Look for a cage with a solid bottom, as wire floors and ramps can injure a guinea pig’s feet. Cover the floor with a paper bedding such as Carefresh or KT Clean and Cozy. The cage is best in a room where your pets can enjoy your company. Guinea pigs love a house or hide to rest in, inside the cage as well.
Diet
A Healthy diet is based on quality grass hay like Timothy, and age appropriate guinea pig pellets, freely available at all times. Babies under 6 months also can have alfalfa hay. Fresh vegetables and fruit, rich in vitamin C, should also be provided. Gradually increase the amount of fresh food given as the guinea pig ages to avoid diarrhea. For example, a single baby guinea pig should have a piece of lettuce about ¼ the size of a dollar bill and a ¼ inch chunk of carrot, or other root vegetable, about three times a week. Parsley, Romaine lettuce, carrot, sweet potato, bell peppers and dandelions are good choices. They should also have fresh water in a water bottle daily.
Cleaning
Spot clean soiled areas every day and scrub out the entire cage weekly, as well as food dishes and water bottles, with a safe small animal cage cleaner. Always rinse and dry the cage well before adding the bedding.
Fertility
Male guinea pigs can be sexually mature at three weeks old. Make absolutely sure of your pet's sex, and keep males and females separate at all times to prevent unwanted babies. Due to the health risks, breeding pet guinea pigs is STRONGLY discouraged.
Health
Find a veterinarian specializing in exotic animals and experienced in treating guinea pigs before you need one. Be alert and consult an exotic animal veterinarian if you notice signs of illness or injury such as: lack of appetite, change in droppings, bloated abdomen, runny nose, labored breathing, head tilt, urinary problems, lumps, or bumps.
Warning
Penicillinbased drugs, commonly prescribed for other pets, can be TOXIC to guinea pigs. Avoid pine and cedar shavings, as they contain components that may cause irritation to skin and the respiratory tract.
Companion animals are potential carriers of infectious diseases that can be passed to humans. Taking these simple precautions can help prevent the potential spread of diseases:
- Always wash your hands before and after handling your pet and/or habitat contents
- Carry hand sanitizer when venturing outside of your home with pet
- Do not kiss or let your mouth come into contact with your pet
- Keep your companion’s habitat, water & food bowls, décor, and other surfaces as clean as possible and remove droppings daily
Pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems should speak with their physician when considering a new pet. For more information regarding pets and disease, go to the Center for Disease Control at cdc.gov/healthypets/
The information provided on this Care Sheet is not a substitute for veterinary care. It is strongly advised to seek further information on the care of your animal. In the event of serious health concerns please consult your veterinarian.
Recommended Supplies
- Guinea Pig Enclosure
- Kahoots Guinea Pig food
- Oxbow or KT Grass Hay
- 16 to 32oz Lixit or Oasis Water Bottle
- Super Pet or Oxbow Wood Chews and Toys
- Kahoots Stain & Odor Remover
- Carefresh, KT or Oxbow Comfort Bedding
- SuperPet Guinea Pig Hideout
- Oasis Guinea Pig Vita Drops
- Ceramic food bowl
- Oxbow and KT Treats
- Super Pet Squeaky Clean Shampoo