Guinea Pigs

If you’re looking for a fun and affectionate pet you might want to check out the guinea pig. Noted by their loving dispositions, guinea pigs will sit on your lap, play games, and entertain you with their whistles, purrs, chuckles, and clucks.

To house you guinea pig depends on how many you have! Because they are herd animals, they enjoy the company of a second guinea pig. A cage for one guinea pig should be at least 36”x24”x12”. As with most small animals, the bigger the cage-the better.

The bottom of the cage must be solid, not wire, to protect their feet. It is best to use aspen shavings or soft paper bedding, but do not use cat litter, pine, or cedar shavings. Inside of their must also be a water bottle, non-tip food dish, a hayrack, and a mineral salt wheel. Guinea pigs like having a special place to sleep in. A favorite is one made of artificial sheepskin.
Strictly herbivores, guinea pigs need pellets designed specifically for guinea pigs. They also need timothy hay for roughage and leafy greens.

Dandelion leaves, parsley, bok choy, kale, cilantro, carrots, celery, peppers, oranges, and small amounts of treats should also be included in their diets.
A healthy guinea pig will often live 4 to 6 years, though some live up to 10 years. These friendly animals require little beyond their daily care.

Occasionally they will need a bath and their toenails trimmed. Longhaired guinea pigs should be brushed and even short haired guinea pigs enjoy an occasional grooming.

For more information on guinea pigs don’t hesitate to ask AllPet’s well-informed staff. We may also recommend a variety of guides and handbooks to further help you and your guinea pig.