How to Take Care of Guinea Pigs

Guinea pigs come in several varieties.

Guinea pigs can make great pets for anyone who wants a small social animal but does not want the commitment of a dog or cat, or does not want a pet that will have free roam of the house. Guinea pigs, considered one of a number of "pocket pets," have a life expectancy of five to seven years, longer than most of the other small pets. Guinea pigs are also called cavies. If you have not already acquired your guinea pig, look for one to adopt at a local animal rescue shelter or online at Petfinder.org.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Cage
• Water bottle
• Food dish
• Bedding
• Hay
• Food
• Treats
• Exercise area

1. Guinea pigs are quite sociable and enjoy interaction with you. Hemera Technologies/AbleStock.com/Getty Images

   Decide if you want to adopt one or two guinea pigs, as they are social animals and would appreciate the company. If you decide to get two, or if you think you might get another later on make sure they are both females. Only get a male guinea pig if you are committed to only having one guinea pig. The only exception is to have two males from the same litter, otherwise they will be too aggressive towards each other. Do not get one of each. Guinea pigs often die when giving birth to their young, and multiply very fast (like rabbits).

2. Guinea pigs like to chew on things like toilet paper rolls. Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images

   Purchase a cage. Most pet supply stores will have "starter cages" that will include the basic supplies that a guinea pig needs. If you plan to have more than one guinea pig, you should get a much larger cage. If you purchase one of these kits, you will find that most of the supplies you need are included and it is more economical to purchase a starter kit than it is to purchase the items individually. The cage should be at least 4 sq. ft, and larger if there are two. Your guinea pig's cage should be in a room where there is lots of family activity because they do not like to be isolated.

3. Avoid giving your guinea pig cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli and cabbage as they will upset his tummy. BananaStock/BananaStock/Getty Images

   Provide your guinea pig with a diet rich in Vitamin C as guinea pigs cannot make their own Vitamin C and are subject to a variety of diseases if they do not get enough. Feed him guinea pig pellets, timothy hay, parsley, apples, citrus fruits, or even chewable Vitamin C tablets. Give your guinea pig a variety of fruits and vegetables in addition to his pellets. Allow him to free feed on the pellets unless obesity becomes a problem. Fill the water bottle and put it on the side of the cage.

4. Hold your guinea pig often in order to get him acclimated to being with you. Ryan McVay/Photodisc/Getty Images

   Cover the bottom of the cage with a generous layer of bedding. Timothy hay works well for this purpose. You can also use recycled, shredded paper. Make sure the bottom of the cage is well covered, as the wire cages can injure your cavie's feet. Change out the bedding and remove droppings and soilings every day to avoid diseases, mites and lice.

5. A guinea pig's teeth grows all the time, so be sure to have a vet check your pet's teeth often. BananaStock/BananaStock/Getty Images

   Hold your guinea pigs often. When holding them, scoop them up under their back legs and drawn them close to your chest quickly to help them feel secure. Try feeding special treats when you are holding them in order to get them to enjoy and look forward to this time with you. In addition to commercial guinea pig treats, cucumber and apple peels are two favorites.

6. Allow your guinea pigs to exercise every day. Set up an area where it is safe for them to run around, perhaps a closet, small bathroom or bedroom with a puppy gate at the door.

7. Take your guinea pigs to the veterinarian to file down their teeth, if needed, and to ensure your pet does not have any of the diseases common to guinea pigs such as scurvy, coccidia, dental diseases, bowel problems, internal or external parasites, neck problems or bumblefoot, a life-threatening foot infection.

Tips & Warnings

• Most guinea pigs live 5-7 years

• Feed your guinea pigs fresh fruits and veggies as an extra treat. They love them

• Never give your guinea pigs potatoes or onions. They can be toxic.

• Pine can cause respiratory problems. Try for absorbable paper bedding or aspen wood chips.

References

• Humane Society of the United States: Housing
• Best Friends Animal Society: Guinea Pig Care
• ASPCA: Guinea Pig Care

Resources

• Humane Society of the United States: Home