Guinea pig care: feeding, space and health of these adorable social rodents

Guinea pigs (also called cavies or cavies) make ideal pets: sociable, they rarely bite, don't smell bad if properly cared for, and have a charming personality. With proper care, they can live 5-7 years.

The most important fact: vitamin C

Guinea pigs, like humans, are unable to synthesize vitamin C. They need a daily supply of vitamin C in their diet or through supplementation. Deficiency causes scurvy: swollen joints, bleeding, loose teeth, and death. This is the leading cause of preventable disease in guinea pigs.

Food

• Hay: The foundation of a healthy diet. Always available. Essential for digestion and tooth wear.
• Fresh vegetables rich in vitamin C: Red or green bell pepper, parsley, watercress, cabbage (in moderation). Daily.
• Specific feed for guinea pigs: With added vitamin C. DO NOT use rabbit feed (it does not have the vitamin C they need).
• Fresh water always
• Avoid: onion, garlic, potato, rhubarb, avocado, excessive iceberg lettuce

Space and company

• Guinea pigs are animals extremely socialThey should never live alone. Ideally, there should be at least two of the same sex (or neutered).
• Minimum space: 1,2 m² for two animals. More is better.
• Temperature: 18-22°C. They are very sensitive to heat (body temperature rises quickly above 26-28°C).

Health and Veterinary

• They need a veterinarian who specializes in exotic animals
• They don't have routine vaccinations, but they do have preventative check-ups.
• The most frequent problems: vitamin C deficiency, dental problems, abscesses, pneumonia, parasites
• Unspayed females have a high risk of ovarian cysts and uterine cancer.

Find vitamin C supplements for guinea pigs and care products in our store.

Conclusion

A guinea pig fed red bell pepper daily, with unlimited hay, a companion of its own species, and regular veterinary checkups has everything it needs to be a happy and long-lived pet. The main pitfalls are loneliness and a lack of vitamin C.