How to Prepare for a Guinea Pig

Guinea pigs are a popular pet for young people. They are bigger than hamsters, but still easily contained in a cage. Before you get a guinea pig, be sure you know about its habits and how to care for it properly. She may be a member of your family for the next 7 years! These pets make good companion animals for a family. This article will show you how to prepare to add a guinea pig to your family. Once you have the necessary accessories you can obtain your new pet from a breeder, pet store or a local shelter.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Your guinea pig needs a comfortable home. You will need to purchase a cage and bedding for your new pet. You need a large cage for your guinea pig to live in. A cage with a sturdy bottom and breathing room is best. No wire floors or glass aquariums. You need bedding to cover the bottom of the cage. Grass hay can be purchased at your local pet store.

2. Your guinea pig needs proper food and water. Her main diet should be pellet food from the pet store. However, you can (and should) also supplement her diet with fresh fruits and vegetables such as oranges, grapes, strawberries, carrots and corn. Be sure to get a sturdy water container so that she can have access to fresh water at all times.

3. Your guinea pig needs toys and treats. The number one thing is to get her things to hide in. Guinea pigs like their privacy! A sleep hut is a best bet. Also try different types of tubes and pots. Guinea pigs also like to chew. So provide wood or chew toys for her.

4. Your guinea pig needs proper care. Consider taking your new pet to see your veterinarian at least once. Have the vet ensure she is in good health and give you any other pointers for her care.

5. Your guinea pig needs companionship. You can patiently train her to be comfortable with her human companions. Handle her gently each day until you earn her trust. Giving treats will help her come to enjoy your time together. Once she in comfortable you can allow her to run around freely while you supervise and play with her. You can also consider getting her a companion guinea pig. Two females will make great friends. But beware if you get a male and female together because there will soon be babies!

6. Your guinea pig needs a clean environment and body. Be sure to regularly clean her cage. Also be sure to groom her hair. A daily brushing will keep her coat tangle free.
   
   Warnings: handle with care…wash hands….

Tips & Warnings

• Handle with care! Guinea pigs can bite when they feel threatened.
• Be sure to always wash hands thoroughly after handling your guinea pig.

[guineapiglover9]

on 8/7/2009 wonderful article thanks a ton

[Panda229]

on 7/6/2009 Great article! 5*!

[gahazeleyes]

on 6/25/2009 Great article. Thanks

[sonni57]

on 6/25/2009 Good tips on how to get ready for a guinea pig I didn't know they would bite.