According to History of the Guinea Pig, cavia porcellus, also known as cavies, have been living with human beings for over 3,000 years. Native to the Andes in Peru, these two-pound tailless rodents have shared the homes of indigenous South American people for so long the original wild cavy no longer exists. While they are used for food and religious rituals in Peru, they have been popular as pets in Europe since Spanish traders brought them there sometime in the late 1500s.
Guinea Pig Traits
Guinea pigs are comically cute, with big heads, pot bellies, short legs, and innocent eyes. They have few defenses; they are not fast runners, do not climb, and do not bite or scratch. Part of their defense system is also part of their charm, because they are very sociable animals and communicate with each other (and their owners) with chuckles and whistles. One of the advantages of guinea pigs as pets for children is that they will not let their owner forget to feed them. They soon learn the sound of an opening refrigerator door and will whistle loudly for food when they are hungry.
Guinea Pig Hardiness
According to the Humane Society, guinea pigs are quite healthy with proper food and living conditions and have a life span of about seven years, longer than most other rodent pets. They do not need immunizations nor do they need to be treated for fleas. In fact, if properly cared for, it is unlikely that a guinea pig would ever need to go to the vet.
Guinea Pig Food
About 1/8 cup of commercial food per day is enough, supplemented with hay and fresh vegetables. Special food for guinea pigs contains vitamin C, since guinea pigs are one of the few animals that do not produce their own vitamin C, but must ingest it daily. Like all rodents, their teeth grow continually and unlimited access to hay helps limit the growth of their teeth. They are very fond of alfalfa but they enjoy any fresh hay. Guinea pigs love carrots and leafy green vegetables, and a bit of fruit now and then as a treat is appreciated.They drink quite a bit of water and the commercial hanging water bottles work best.
Guinea Pig Housing
Guinea pigs are much larger than other pet rodents such as hamsters or gerbils and need more floor space. Since guinea pigs do not burrow or climb but do like to play and explore, they need a cage of about 30” X 36.” They readily take advantage of little houses made from small boxes and enjoy roaming around the house freely when they get a chance. Like all rodents, they will leave dry droppings here and there when they are loose, but unlike other rodents, they are not at all difficult to catch and return to their cage. In their cage, they will use one corner for a bathroom area and bedding should be changed as needed. Guinea pigs do not have a strong odor like some rodents.
Find a Guinea Pig
Check with the local Humane Society first to see if they have any guinea pigs up for adoption. Pet-quality animals can usually be purchased from cavy breeders for under $20. Cavy clubs around the U.S. hold shows for their pedigreed breeding stock and this is a good source of quality animals.
Guinea pigs are quite defenseless and should be protected from dogs and large cats, as well as from unintentional harm by small children. They should not be exposed to temperature extremes and in South America they are kept inside the native’s homes. Don’t forget that guinea pigs are social animals, living in groups of up to a dozen if given a choice. Your pet cavy will get lonely and want attention from you, and will particularly enjoy being brushed gently. If you get two guinea pigs for company, try to get two of the same sex unless you are sure you can find good homes for any offspring.
