Guinea Pig Care

Caring For Happy & Healthy Pets

First Time Owners- Guinea Pigs

On this page:

-Why A Guinea Pig

-Questions To Ask Yourself.

-Where To Buy a Guinea Pig

-What Guinea Pig To Look For

Why A Guinea Pig

- They have a long lifespan for a small pet, in most cases 3 - 8 years, although the average is 5. Some can even live up to 13 years with the right attention and care!

-They are much bigger Pets than Hamster, Mice and Gerbils, and can be easly handled.

-They will really reward you with your attention, by being a responsive pet that, with the right training, can come when you call it and even perform tricks! They will even have their own personalities.

-They only have a few basic requirments, and can be kept inside or outside.

Yes Guinea Pigs are a great Pet to keep, so its down to you to make the desision.

Questions To Ask Yourself

Yes, there are a few Questions you need to ask yourself before bringing a Guinea Pig into your home, or it may not be fair on the Guinea Pig or yourself.

Can You Afford Vet Bills?

Yes, sometimes you Guinea Pig may get ill, for what ever reason. So, they may need to visit the Vet for a check up, and although its not normally costly, it can still be vital for the Guinea Pigs well being. The Bill is usually between £15 to £30, so that it something you will have to keep in mind. Guinea Pigs have a habbit of hidding illness, its how they would survive in the wild, so be prepared if your Guinea Pig suddenly looks ill. Visit the Health Check page for more information.

Can You Afford Their Weekly Food?

Every week a Guinea Pig may need new food. So this is something to keep in mind. Guinea Pigs are not normally expensive, but they will need somethings that are vital.

Your Weekly Shopping List:

-Fresh Hay

-Dry Guinea Pig Mix/ Nuggets

-Dry Grass

-Fruit and Veg

These are the things that your Guinea Pigs will need most, although the odd toy here and there will also do them good.

Can You Keep 2 Guinea Pigs Together?

Guinea Pigs are social little animals, its only natural for them. Guinea Pigs are best kept in pairs, or in small groups- BUT NOT WITH RABBITS! Rabbits have a strong kick and can injure or even kill Guinea Pigs. 2 Male Guinea Pigs kept together will fight, but it they can be Neutered to prevent fighting. 2 Females kept together will normally be ok, and a male and female Guinea Pig will just keep breeding, so the male must be Neurtered to prevent all the babies.