Despite its name, the Guinea pig does not come from India and is clearly not a small pig. This rodent is originally from South America, more specifically from the Andes region, they are mammals and vegetarians.
A guinea pig can live between three to five years, but some larger breeds live up to seven years and even longer! As they have daytime habits and are very kind, many families with children adopt these pets.
As they have teeth that grow all the time, these pets need access to objects to chew on. Otherwise, they can wreak havoc in the cage or even at home. As they are prey animals, they have a more suspicious and shy temperament. But once you gain their owner’s trust, they are adorable pets and super companions!
For those thinking about adopting a Guinea pig , we have separated some essential information that you cannot fail to consider in your choice! Check out!
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GUINEA PIG IS A LONG TERM COMMITMENT
Just like any pet, a Guinea pig also needs long-term care and attention. Therefore, if you are not sure that you can take on this responsibility, or even if you do not have a space for your pet, it is worth thinking about. Although they demand less than a dog or a cat, they also need daily dedication, especially with feeding and changing the cage lining.
IS IT A GOOD IDEA TO HAVE MORE THAN ONE GUINEA PIG?
If you think about having a guinea pig , consider not just one, but at least two little animals. That’s because these pets are very sociable and need interaction. To avoid unwanted litters, choose two of the same sex and prefer early socialization to avoid fights over territory.
It is quite difficult to distinguish a male guinea pig from a female. That’s because both are very similar in size and shape. What differs, as incredible as it may seem, is the shape of the stool. Females poop in a conical, more rounded shape, and males have longer, banana-shaped poops.
BIG CAGE, PLEASE!
The Guinea pig is a very active animal that needs space. Therefore, if you are thinking of adopting this rodent as a pet, it is worth choosing a larger cage . Unlike hamsters , guinea pigs do not climb, so a bedding and a good crate can be a good option for these pets. They also need a den to make a home. As we explained, these animals are prey animals in nature, so hiding is something instinctive for them.
Even if you decide to raise your guinea pig in a cage, the ideal is also to let it out from time to time so that it can interact with the environment. But remember, they are rodents and can go around the house gnawing. Therefore, it’s nice to play with them, but always supervised, so that no wires or objects are gnawed.
GUINEA PIG CRIES AND LEARNS TO USE THE TOILET
Yes, not everyone knows, but these small rodents emit a sound, similar to a non-stop hissing whenever they need attention or food. Therefore, if you do not have the patience for noise, it is better to think twice before adopting this pet.
A curious fact is that they can learn to use the toilet. But, it’s not something as accurate as a well-trained dog. They often miss the mark too, although they use more specific places in the cage to relieve themselves.
THEY NAP WITH THEIR EYES OPEN!
Guinea pigs are more diurnal pets. But that doesn’t mean they don’t nap during the day. Incidentally, it is very common for this little bug to nap with its eyes open! Precisely because it is prey, this is the animal’s way of protecting itself in nature. So, if you see your guinea pig completely inactive, but with its eyes open, don’t worry! He’s just taking a nap…
GUINEA PIGS ARE VERY DIFFERENT FROM HAMSTERS
Although these two pets are much-loved rodents, they have very different habits. To begin with, hamsters are nocturnal and less docile than guinea pigs . Also, these little animals are vegetarian, they don’t climb things, they don’t keep food in their cheeks and they don’t pick up food with their paws.
Guinea pigs in the wild are prey animals. That’s why they have a very suspicious and fleeing behavior. They have their own personality and interact a lot with the owners. Maybe you don’t know, but it is possible to teach some tricks to your guinea pig !
HOW TO TAKE CARE OF A GUINEA PIG?
Guinea pigs do not need to be vaccinated like cats and dogs. However, some furrier breeds require grooming, and giving your pet a bath is also recommended.
Another important care is to change the cage lining every three days at least. There are several ways to line a guinea pig’s cage . Some owners opt for newspaper, others for sawdust. There are also those who use a blanket on top of a toilet mat. Although they end up using part of the cage more as a bathroom, this is not a rule. So yes, pee and poop need to be cleaned frequently to avoid bad smell and illness.
THEY NEED VITAMIN C
The Guinea Pig is a vegetarian animal. Therefore, no giving any kind of meat to your rodent. Most owners feed their piglet with specific feed and hay, complementing the diet with vegetables and fruits.
Despite eating everything from the vegetable kingdom, some foods should be avoided, as they can mess with the intestines of these pets. They are: grapes, oats, barley, parsley bread, sunflower seeds, lettuce, arugula, beets, radishes and cauliflower.
Finally, it is important to note that guinea pigs do not synthesize their own vitamin C, just like humans do. Therefore, it is essential to seek food with vitamin C or specific supplements. Rodents are very cute pets and easy to care for! They interact with the owner and can be passionate. If you are crazy about teeth and looking for a fluffy pet, Guinea pigs can be an excellent choice!
