Taking Care of Your Guinea Pig

Guinea pigs are great pets to have. They don't require too much maintenance, have fun personalities and give lots of love!

We want to share a few tips for first time, prospective and current guinea pig owners. These little guys are so much fun!

First, let's talk about food.

Timothy hay is the major source of diet for a guinea pig. In addition to hay, a small amount of guinea pig pellets may be added to the diet . Make sure the pellets are fortified so that they are getting the correct vitamins and nutrients. We also recommend adding Vitamin C to their drinking water, since guinea pigs are unable to manufacture their own Vitamin C. There are also a number of fruits and vegetables that can be used as treats. Consult with us on which fruits and vegetables to give, as there are some they cannot eat. Also, try not to give too many treats so that they can stay on a proper diet. Treats are a great way to bond with your guinea pig!

Housing

Make sure you have a large cage for your guinea pig and provide proper bedding. Shredded paper, recycled paper bedding and shredded aspen bedding works best! DO NOT use pine or cedar shavings as the oils in the shavings can cause respiratory problems. Also, sawdust should not be used as a substrate. Make sure to clean out and disinfect the cage once a week.

GP Food/Housing Checklist

• Large cage. 12' height x 24-36' width
• Proper substrate and bedding
• Vitamin C Supplement
• Timothy hay
• Treats (veggies/fruits)
• Water bottle and dish
• Food bowl
• Safe toys

Care

Nail trims are important for your guinea pig. We perform nail trims at our clinic on a daily basis, so feel free to schedule an appointment with us. Sometimes teeth trims are required as well (do not attempt on your own; only veterinarians can do this). Also, bathing and brushing your guinea pig are good grooming habits to develop. It is good to bond with your guinea pig and take them out to play frequently.

*If you see your guinea pig eating their droppings, this is normal and do not discourage it. Eating feces actually helps them digest and are an important part of their diet.

One last thing.

We want your guinea pig to be happy and healthy. If he/she shows any sign of illness, let us know.  Being a prey species, guinea pigs hide their illnesses very well. Please contact our clinic should any of the below listed signs occur.

Common Signs of Illness

• Drooling
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• Swollen, painful joints and ribs
• Reluctance to move
• Bleeding from the gums
• Straining or uterine bleeding
• Hair loss
• Panting and/or convulsions
• Swelling/lameness of the feet
• Labored or rapid breathing
• Discharge from eyes and/or nose
• Excessive tilting of head
• Diarrhea
• Excessive scratching

Guinea pigs are great pets! If you have any questions about them, always call our clinic. We are happy to help you!