CARING FOR GUINEA PIGS

Guinea pigs are cute, and you don’t need a lot of space to keep them. They like to have the company of other guinea pigs, so getting two together is a good idea. They need to be of the same sex or spayed/neutered so they won’t have babies. Guinea pigs can be friendly if they are touched and get used to people when they are young. The cost to care for a guinea pig is at least $200 per year.  They need a large cage, which can cost about $60 to buy.  It can be hard to find a veterinarian who takes care of guinea pigs. And when you go on a trip, you’ll need someone to care for your guinea pig.

 

WHERE TO GET A GUINEA PIG

Please support your local animal shelter and adopt a guinea pig! The guinea pigs waiting for homes need you! DON’T buy one from a pet store or breeder! People who breed animals are adding to the numbers of animals already out there waiting for homes. When you buy an animal, you say it’s OK to think of animals as “merchandise” – but they are really living, breathing creatures who should be treated with respect. Just look at all the guinea pigs waiting for homes in the Washington, DC area, http://www.metropets.org/.

 

EVERY DAY

Guinea pigs go to the bathroom a lot, so their cage and litter must be changed every day. You can make your job easier by putting newspaper on the floor of the cage and litter, such as pine shavings, on top. Please don’t use cedar shavings, because they can cause breathing problems in animals and irritate their lungs. Pine shavings, corncob shavings, or recycled newspaper shavings are better.  Guinea pigs need timothy hay, guinea pig food, fresh vegetables, and fresh water every day. They also need at least an hour or two outside the cage every day. A room that does not have carpet or wires they might chew on is best for letting them run around.

EVERY WEEK

The cage will need a more thorough cleaning every week. Since guinea pigs can be kind of messy, scrubbing the cage floor with water and a mild soap will keep it nice and clean.

 

EVERY MONTH

Check to see that your guinea pig’s toenails are not too long. A veterinarian can show you how to trim the nails at home. Look for anything that could be a health problem, such as missing fur.

 

EVERY YEAR

Guinea pigs need to have a yearly check-up just like other pets. Be sure to find a veterinarian in your area who treats guinea pigs BEFORE you need one!  You might have an emergency and need a veterinarian fast!