Caring for guinea
pigs can be a fun and rewarding experience, especially for beginners. These
small, social animals thrive with the right care, attention, and environment.
Here's a complete beginner's guide to guinea pig care:
Basic Guinea Pig Care Guide for Beginners
1. Getting Started
· Species: Most common pet guinea pigs are American, Abyssinian, or
Peruvian.
· Lifespan: 5–8 years (sometimes longer with excellent care).
· Social Needs: They are herd animals — always get at least two of
the same sex or neutered pairs for companionship.
2. Housing
· Cage Size: Minimum 7.5 sq ft for 1-2 pigs (e.g.,
30" x 50"), but 10.5+ sq ft is better.
o Avoid pet store cages — use C&C cages or
homemade enclosures.
· Bedding: Use paper-based bedding or fleece liners.
Avoid cedar or pine shavings.
· Hideouts: Provide at least one hidey house per pig
to help them feel safe.
· Cleanliness: Spot clean daily, full clean weekly.
3. Diet
Guinea pigs require
a special diet to stay healthy:
· Hay (80% of diet): Unlimited timothy hay (or orchard grass
for variety).
· Fresh Vegetables: 1 cup daily per pig (leafy greens, bell peppers, etc.).
· Vitamin C: Essential — feed veggies rich in vitamin C (like bell
peppers), or add a vet-approved supplement.
· Pellets: Plain guinea pig pellets (no seeds or colored bits).
Choose one with added Vitamin C.
· Avoid: Iceberg
lettuce, potatoes, onions, chocolate, dairy, meat, and sugary treats.
4. Water
· Always provide fresh, clean water.
· Use a bottle or heavy bowl (check and
refill daily).
5. Handling & Socialization
· Be gentle — guinea pigs are prey animals and may startle
easily.
· Support their body fully when picking them up.
· Handle them daily to build trust.
· They enjoy soft talking and gentle petting.
6. Health & Grooming
· Nail trimming: Every few weeks.
· Teeth: They grow
constantly — hay helps grind them down.
· Bathing: Rarely needed; only when dirty or on vet advice.
· Vet visits: Find an exotics vet for check-ups and if they
show illness signs.
Common signs of illness: Weight loss, not eating, lethargy, sneezing, crusty eyes,
diarrhea. Guinea pigs hide illness well — act quickly if they seem “off.”
7. Enrichment
· Tunnels, chew toys, cardboard boxes keep them mentally stimulated.
· Floor time: Let them out of their cage daily in a safe, enclosed area.
8. Bonding Guinea Pigs
· Boars (males) can live together but need space and a proper
introduction.
· Sows (females) usually bond more easily.
· Always introduce on neutral territory and
supervise closely.
The Complete Guide to Guinea Pig Care and Ownership:
Covering Breeds, Training, Supplies, Handling, Popcorning, Bonding, Body
Language, Feeding, Grooming, and Health Care!
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Written with expert advice from 14 top Guinea Pig experts, learn exactly what it takes to raise a Happy
and Healthy Guinea Pig!
Comprehensive enough for adults, but written
in a kid-friendly way, this
book is the ideal guide for those aged eight to 88 who are bringing a new
Guinea Pig into their home!
Whether you're a guinea pig owner or just dreaming of having one, this book is
a total game-changer. Honestly, it's like a guinea pig whisperer's bible. From
picking the perfect guinea pig to creating a dream home and bonding tips and
tricks, this book is a must-read for every guinea pig owner!
Covering the most important topics every new owner NEEDS TO KNOW:
Expert Tips
for Guinea Pig Selection -Learn
to choose the perfect guinea pig, considering breeds and the environment from
which they come. Whether from a breeder, pet store, or shelter, find your ideal
furry companion and ensure a lasting bond.
Crafting
the Perfect Guinea Pig Home -
Imagine creating the coziest and most welcoming home for your adorable
companions. This guide has you covered with valuable insights on cage setup,
bedding, and stylish accessories. Maintain a clean and cozy environment to keep
your furry friend happy and healthy.
Nutrition
and Diet Advice -Discover
the secrets of their unique eating habits and provide a nutritious diet for
their well-being. Avoid harmful foods and explore DIY treats to add excitement
to their daily meals.
Handling
and Bonding - Foster a
strong bond with your guinea pig through play, proper handling, and
affectionate interactions. Learn how to interpret their body language and
emotions, ensuring a strong bond and a lifetime of happiness.
It's time to be the best guinea pig parent ever! "The Complete Guide to
Guinea Pig Care and Ownership" will equip you with grooming tips,
essential health care knowledge, and advice on socialization and bonded pairs.
Get ready to unlock the secrets to creating a lifetime of love, laughter, and
joy with your new guinea pig!
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