There are many reasons why guinea pigs are one of the most popular pets and have found their way into hundreds of thousands of homes – and hearts – in the UK.
They can be incredibly cute and fascinating to watch, but also gentle and sociable, making them a great pet for children. Guinea pigs are also relatively low maintenance. However, there are still things you need to do to keep your guinea pig healthy and happy.
This guide to guinea pig care is designed to help you.
Choosing your pet
Did you know that the official name for a guinea pig is a Cavy? It’s a domesticated animal originating from South American rodents, but don’t let that put you off!
The British Cavy Council champions purebred animals and supports specialist breeding clubs for 13 varieties of guinea pig. There are rarer types too, but the BCC can help you to choose between the most common guinea pig breeds.
Always buy from a reputable breeder or a pet shop with proven credentials for animal care. That way you know you’re getting a healthy, young guinea pig. By the way, as they love socialising, many people choose to get more than one at once!
Habitat and equipment
Keeping your guinea pig safe and comfortable involves buying or making a suitable hutch. The hutch will need to prevent them from escaping and protect them from predators if it’s going outdoors or you have larger pets too.
Your guinea pig hutch needs an enclosed sleeping area you can pack with dust-free hay, as well as plenty of space covered with absorbant litter for small pets. Add in a water bottle or substantial water bowl your pet can’t knock over. Also, having an enclosed guinea pig ‘run’ can ensure they exercise enough.
What do guinea pigs eat
It’s important to buy quality food specially formulated for guinea pigs – it often comes in nugget form. However, eating is fun for your pet! Make a list of things that are safe for guinea pigs to eat daily – like leafy greens, seedless fruit and carrot tops.
Bringing your guinea pig home
No matter how fancy your hutch is, the process of settling into its new home will inevitably create a degree of pet stress.
Being transported from the breeder or shop to your house could create anxiety, and then this little creature has all the new smells and sounds to get used to, as well as unfamiliar living quarters.
The most calming thing you can do for your guinea pig is to provide it with a natural and safe remedy to manage its stress levels on the trip to your house. Then, give your new pet time to adjust quietly.
That can mean managing the excitement of children. Explain to children they need to take things slowly, and introduce their little hands gently and gradually to the animal. That saves a lot of heartache if an anxious guinea pig takes a nip due to fear!
How to keep your pet happy
Knowing calming tips for guinea pigs can be handy at other times too. Such as when fireworks or other loud noises are likely to startle them. Natural Pet Remedy products are ideal.
Try to get them out for exercise and affection regularly, and include gnawing sticks and toys, puzzle feeders and hiding places and tunnels to your guinea pig’s home.
