Guinea pigs, also known as Cavies, are small rodents that come from the Andes mountains in South America. There are several sub species of guinea pig found wild in South America. In the wild guinea pigs are social animals that form small family groups.
Drawings of male and female guinea pigs courtesy of www.tuppambr.demon.co.uk/gpig.htm
Guinea pigs are capable of BREEDING from 6 weeks of age. They can become pregnant IMMEDIATELY after they give BIRTH; female guinea pigs can have as many as 5 LITTERS per year and each litter can contain up to 6-7 baby pigs.
Female guinea pigs are pregnant for about 63 days, before giving birth to baby guinea pigs. Baby guinea pigs are born with a full coat, open eyes and teeth, they are able to move around and will begin to take food within a few days, although they will also suckle from their mother for their first 2 - 3 weeks.
Guinea pigs can be housed on their own but they do like to have company, either housing two guineas of the same sex from a young age. Introducing adult guinea pigs is likely to cause fighting which may result in injury for both guinea pigs. When buying or getting guinea pigs it is important not to put males and females together and to observe the guinea pigs for signs of fighting or injury.
GUINEA PIGS MAY BE SPAYED OR NEUTERED TO PREVENT UNWANTED LITTERS. IT IS ALSO A MEANS OF CONTROLLING FUGHTING AMONGST MALES.
Guinea pigs should not be bred until 4-6 months of age, although breeding as early as three months is not detrimental.
WE AT THE SPCA ADVISE AGAINST BREEDING YOUR GUINEA PIGS AS THERE IS A LARGE POPULATION OF UNWANTED GUINEA PIGS THAT ARE PUT TO SLEEP OR DISPOSED OF INAPPROPRIATELY EACH YEAR.
Before you decide to buy or adopt a guinea pig remember that it is a caged animal and it depends on you for all of its needs every day.
A note to PARENTS, your child may be very interested in the guinea pig now, but will they still be interested in a few months time? Keep in mind that the guinea pig may live 4-8 years and you will be responsible for its daily care.
Guinea Pigs come in a number of varieties and colors, but those with the short, smooth coat are easiest to care for. The long-haired varieties require regular grooming. The cost of buying the guinea pig is nominal compared with the initial start up cost of buying a suitable cage ($100-250); however they are a relatively cheap pet to keep on a daily basis.
Guinea Pigs are herbivores and one of the few animals that are unable to store Vitamin C. Vitamin C is included in most quality guinea pig foods. Vitamin C deficiency is characterized by weight loss, generalized weakness and swollen joints. Guinea pigs like a variety of foods in their diet, a mixture of fresh food such as lettuce, carrots, apples and other vegetables, hay and a pellet guinea pig food. It is important that their food is provided in clean and stable containers so that they can't tip the food over or contaminate it. Changes in the diet should be made gradually so the digestive system does not get upset. Guinea pigs also require access to fresh water all the time, especially in the heat. Water can be provided in a bowl or in a bottle with a ball. Because guinea pigs teeth are constantly growing it is essential for them to have wooden objects to gnaw to wear their teeth. If their teeth become too long the guinea pig will be unable to eat properly but a trip to the vet will correct any dental problems.
the cage you keep your guinea pig in should be large enough to allow it to move about freely. It should have a covered in area for the guinea pig to sleep in. cages with wire floors are good for keeping the cage clean but if the wire is too big it can cause foot deformities called bumble foot. Plastic bottom cages are also good and are often better in a situation where the guinea pig is going to be kept indoors.
The cage should have bedding for the guinea pig, this will absorb urine and allow the guinea pig to burrow. Suitable beddings include clean wood shavings or chips, straw, or shredded paper. Avoid wood shavings that have a high content of volatile oils or preservatives as these can be poisonous (such as cedar). Also avoid artificial fibre bedding which can cause severe digestive problems or even death. Bedding works best if there is an under layer which is absorbent and a top layer that is loose for burrowing.
Guinea Pigs are timid but regular gentle handling and petting is enjoyed. The best way to pick up a guinea pig is to put one hand around its shoulders and under the chest whilst the hindquarters are supported with the other hand. Serious injury may be caused if a guinea pig wriggles free and falls or jumps from your arms.
Objects such as ramps, steps, toys and tubes in the guinea pigs cage will encourage it to play and exercise. If you do allow you guinea pig out of its cage to run around, ensure that the area you let it out in is secure and safe for the guinea pig (free from hazards such as electrical cables and dogs or cats). If you allow your guinea pigs some freedom inside your house they will need constant supervision as they have a tendency to chew things - including electrical cords and cables!
Healthy guinea pigs are alert, active and have a sleek healthy coat. Guinea pigs that show a lack of activity may have problems with their legs or with other parts of their body. Their droppings should be dry and firm, their eyes bright and clear, and their teeth clean and not overlong. Vaccinations and worming are not usually required but a high standard of cleanliness and care is necessary to ensure your pet's good health.
Weight loss can be caused by a number of different factors however the guinea pigs teeth should be looked at first to rule out over long teeth as the cause. If the guinea pig is not cleaned regularly it may develop skin conditions due to poor hygiene. The guinea pig should also be regularly inspected for external parasites such as fleas and lice.
Diarrhea can be caused by an number of things however the most common causes are infection from contaminated food or a sudden change in diet. Withhold greens for 24 hours, feeding only hay and water. If diarrhea continues, consult your veterinary surgeon.
Many ailments can be dealt with quite easily, especially in the early stages, but small mammals deteriorate quickly if illness is ignored.
Observe your guinea pigs carefully and consult your veterinary surgeon promptly if you are in any way concerned about your pet's health.
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