Guinea Pig Care

When thinking about getting guinea pigs there are a lot of factors to consider. There is a lot of conflicting information online, below are the things I have found useful and interesting and things that I feel are important to know when getting guinea pigs or even if you already have them! 

Before you get guinea pigs!

Diet

Housing

Companisonship

Bonding

Guinea pigs are very social animals and are a lot happier with a friend or two! They can e very territorial and temperamental to bond, this document will hopefully make things a lot easier for you :) 

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Medical 

Behaviour

Accidental pregnancy

FAQ's

Here are some frequently asked questions about Guinea Pig care!

Do guinea pigs need a friend?

Yes. Guinea pigs are very social animals and should normally live with at least one other friendly guinea pig. RSPCA guidance says guinea pigs can suffer and develop abnormal behaviour if left alone for long periods.

Can guinea pigs live with rabbits?

No, rabbits and guinea pigs should not usually live together. RSPCA guidance says rabbits and guinea pigs communicate differently, have different dietary needs and rabbits may injure or bully guinea pigs. Guinea pigs are best kept with other guinea pigs.

What do guinea pigs eat every day?

Vegetables, hay and pellets. You can also treat them with frage, fruits and pea flakes! 

Wht can you not feed Guinea Pigs?

Onions, chocolate, bread, seeds, meat, 

Why do guinea pigs need vitamin C?

Guinea pigs need vitamin C in their diet because they cannot make enough of it themselves. Good sources include suitable fresh vegetables and guinea pig-specific pellets. Fresh food, pellets and water should be checked regularly to help keep them healthy.

What foods should guinea pigs avoid?

Guinea pigs should avoid foods that can be harmful, including iceberg lettuce, potato, garlic, avocado, coconut and lawnmower clippings. Sugary treats and muesli-style mixes are also best avoided because they can lead to poor nutrition or digestive issues. For more information, have a look at what the RSPCA says about it: https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/rodents/guineapigs/diet

How often should I clean a guinea pig home?

Guinea pig housing should be spot cleaned daily to remove soiled bedding and mess. Blue Cross recommends a full clean around once a week on average, although this may need to be more often depending on the number of guinea pigs and the size of the setup.

How long can guinea pigs be left alone?

Pampered Piggies advises that guinea pigs should not be left alone for more than 24 hours without someone to care for them. They need daily food, fresh water, spot cleaning and health checks.

How do I know if my guinea pig is ill?

Warning signs include eating less, weight changes, low energy, breathing changes, limping, diarrhoea, runny eyes or nose, hair loss, lumps, overgrown teeth or wounds. Guinea pigs can hide illness, so contact a vet quickly if something seems wrong.