Guinea Pigs at Ingleside Animal Hospital
Guinea pigs are active most of the day (up to 20 hours!)
Guinea pigs are very active, they can be awake for up to 20 hours a day. This means that they need lots of space to move around. This space can be outdoors, indoors, or a combination of both. Their space should have a sleeping space, as well exercise space so that your guinea pigs can explore, run around, and play. Remember it can get both really hot and really cold in Arizona, so if it is too hot or cold they will need to stay cozy indoors.
Guinea pigs are hiders, not climbers
While guinea pigs are active, they're not particularly agile. Guinea pigs enjoy ground items, like tunnels and hideaways rather than ladders or climbing objects. We typically recommend a hazard-free environment, as this would reduce the risk of injury. If your guinea pig injures themselves, call your local veterinarian.
They require a balanced diet
Guinea pigs require constant access to grass and/or good quality hay. They don't produce vitamin C and because of this they also need a fresh portion of grass-based guinea pig pellets and safe, washed leafy greens daily. Feeding the correct diet will help keep your guinea's digestive system working nicely and keep their teeth the correct length and shape.
Safe vegetables include carrots + carrot tops, kale, broccoli, parsley, and collard greens. Fruits should be avoided as this can cause oral sores to develop, but a single orange slice can be given for vitamin C.
Guinea pigs are very social
In the wild guinea pigs live in groups of between five and ten, so keeping guinea pigs in pairs or small groups is ideal. Good combinations include single-sex pairs or a combination of neutered male with one or more females. The right pairings will help keep your guinea pigs happy as they are social pets.
Making friends with your guinea pig is also important. Careful, considerate handling by an adult from an early age will help guinea pigs be calm and relaxed in human company.
They make 11 individual sounds
The infamous 'wheek-wheek' is one of 11 sounds that guinea pigs make. This 'wheek-wheek' noise is usually a sign of excitement but your guineas will make all sorts of noises for different reasons. Chutting, a purring type of sound means a guinea pig is relaxed, while squeaks often indicate an alarmed or scared guinea pig. Guinea pigs also coo to soothe and comfort each other and will chatter and show their teeth to each other if they are angry or want some space.
Keep them entertained!
Guinea pigs are very intelligent. If you're planning on adopting, it's important to think about the amount of mental stimulation they'll need. Whether your guinea pigs are inside or outside, a combination of space, toys and things for them to explore will keep them from getting bored.
They will generally enjoy toys that they can gnaw, forage, or hide in. Interesting food (wrapped or hidden in guinea pig safe ways) is also a winner. Wicker or straw objects, tunnels and houses can also be very popular with guinea pigs.
Schedule an Appointment
If you have a snake that requires care or if you want to learn more about creating the best environment for your pet, reach out to us today! Schedule an appointment to ensure your snake enjoys a long and healthy life.
For more information, feel free to contact us or visit our Contact Us page. We look forward to helping you care for your amazing companions!