Guinea Pig
Don't be fooled, these guys can make quite the racket when they want to.
Information | Care | Caging | Links | References
Information
Size: |
Kitten sized, about ten inches. |
Food: |
Guinea Pig food, pellets. Kale, parsley, strawberries and orange slices. Carrot sticks and grasses/grains. Keep Hay available to aid in their digestion. Guinea Pigs can not form Vitamin C, so be sure any food pellet is high in vitamin C or be ready to supplement in their water. |
LifeSpan: |
5-7 years. |
Habits: |
Guinea pigs are a great primer pet, but not the brightest rodent. They are not climbers or jumpers, and breed like rabbits. Guinea Pigs can have a tendency to get fat very fast, so refrain from high fat foods, such as nuts. |
Care
Guinea pigs breed just as fast as rabbits. Some vets will neuter Guinea Pigs, though guinea pigs often do not react well to anesthetic. Best case scenario is to keep them alone, or in same-sex pairs. They can be sexed by a vet at 2-3 weeks. Guinea pigs also benefit from occasional trips outside for grass. They should
Caging
Small rabbit cages will normally suffice for guinea pigs. As with other rodents avoid Cedar shavings. Recycled paper is much safer. Metal cage with solid bottom. Two square feet recommended per Guinea Pig. Bedding such as non cedar chips or shavings. Gravity flow water bottle and a slope to climb on.
Links
Guinea Pigs:
http://www.caviesgalore.com/ -- Cavies Galore.
References
Hanna, Jack w/ Hester Mundis. Jack Hanna's Ultimate Guide to Pets. 1996.