Guinea Pigs are intelligent, affectionate and social animals that need daily interaction
with humans or other guinea pigs. However, chewing is a guinea pig’s favorite hobby, so
make sure you have plenty in the cage to keep your pig happy. Guinea pigs that become familiar with their owner will whistle on the owner's approach.
Average Size
The average size of a guinea pig is 1.5-2.5 lbs.
Life Span
Up to 8 years.
Feeding
Fresh food and water should always be available. Small amounts of vegetables and fruits can be given daily, such as pears, grapes, strawberries, dates, raisins, sprouts and carrots. Vegetable and fruits not eaten within 24 hours should be thrown away. Mineral/salt spools help with diet.
Many house plants are toxic and a guinea pig should not eat grass treated with pesticides.
Treats should not exceed 10% of total food intake. Do not feed chocolate, alcohol or caffeine; these are dangerous. Use clean, fresh, de-chlorinated water changed daily.
Use a High quality guinea pig food. They also require timothy hay or alfalfa. Guinea pigs require about 10mg of vitamin C daily.
Housing
Guinea Pigs acclimate well to average household temperatures; be cautious of extreme temperature change; habitat should never be in direct sunlight or in a drafty area. Habitats should be at least four times the size of the guinea pig, escape proof with an area that has a solid surface; it is best to provide the largest habitat possible. They enjoy tunnels, and hide outs. Use baby gates or an indoor play yard during play time.
1-2 inches of bedding should be placed in the habitat. Proper bedding includes shavings and pelleted or recycled product. Cedar-based bedding may cause harm and is not recommended.
Different types of small animals should not be housed together.
Different types of small animals should not be housed together.
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Maintenance
Remove wet spots daily; change bedding weekly or more often if needed and wash all items in the habitat. Clean the habitat once a week by scrubbing it with mild soap and water, rinse and allow to completely dry to minimize fumes before placing animal back into the habitat.
Temps
Stable room temperature is adequate. No special requirements.
Humidity
No special requirements
Lighting
Use room lighting as needed. Guinea pigs are most active during dusk and dawn.
Water & Accessories
Guinea Pigs should be given a sipper bottle, hung from the side of the cage. They also need small toys to play with. Keep a food bowl and chew stick as well.
BASIC REPRODUCTIVE INFORMATION
Guinea pigs are able to breed year round, and may have up to 5 liters per year.
Guinea Pigs can reach maturity at 3-5 weeks of age.
Gestation is 59-72 days.
Guinea Pigs may have anywhere from 1-6 in liter, with average being 3.
Newborn pups are born with hair and are mobile completely. Begin feeding them a pellet diet immediately.
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