Guinea Pig Care

Guinea pigs do not require routine vaccinations, but an annual exam and parasite check is recommended. Seek out a veterinarian who is experienced in treating guinea pigs and is familiar with medical conditions such as vitamin C deficiency (scurvy), overgrown teeth, colds and pneumonia, bladder stones, infections, and parasites. If a guinea pig seems droopy, has a dull coat and/or is losing hair, eats very little or nothing, has soft droppings, or is otherwise acting abnormally, consult a veterinarian immediately. Don’t use any medications intended for dogs or cats. 

Spaying or neutering guinea pigs carries risks and must only be done by a veterinarian with guinea pig knowledge and experience. If you choose not to sterilize your pet, we discourage pairing male and female guinea pigs together.

Guinea pig grooming involves regular toenail trimming, ear cleaning, combing, and bathing.

Guinea pigs require unlimited amounts of fresh green grass hay (usually Timothy). Alfalfa hay and alfalfa treats are okay for young guinea pigs and pregnant or malnourished adults, but otherwise, they should not be given on a regular basis. Most guinea pig pellets are alfalfa-based, which is fairly high in calcium. Feeding additional alfalfa hay or treats may provide too much calcium and lead to bladder stone problems. 

Owners should feed pellets specifically for guinea pigs. Use a heavy bowl that cannot be tipped. Feed approximately a quarter to one-half cup of fresh pellets per animal daily. Avoid brands that contain lots of seeds and nuts because the fat content of these foods is often too high for adult guinea pigs, and they can choke on large or whole seeds. Fresh water must always be available, preferably in an easy-to-reach water bottle. Food bowls and water bottles should be cleaned and refilled with fresh food and water daily. 

Guinea pigs require vitamin C on a daily basis. Since vitamin C in pellets can dissipate over time, it can be supplemented by adding the proper dose of powdered or liquid vitamin C to a guinea pig's food or water, by giving it orally, or by supplementing the diet with fruits and veggies high in vitamin C (although it's more difficult to supplement the correct amount). The recommended dosage is 30 milligrams a day for an average adult. Liquid C, a human supplement sold at most health and nutrition stores, is pleasant-tasting and easy to administer. 

Fresh greens and vegetables can be fed in moderation. Too large a quantity or variety can cause diarrhea or other digestive or nutritional problems. Guinea pigs can be given parsley, bell peppers, romaine lettuce, live wheat grass (sold at some pet stores), carrot tops, celery leaves, clover, spinach, green alfalfa, chemical-free dandelion leaves and fresh grass, carrots, grapes, apple, cranberry (also dried cranberry), and a little citrus fruit. Vegetables belonging to the cabbage family (kale, broccoli, cauliflower) should be very limited (or avoided) as they can cause bloat, a serious condition. Fresh foods should always be thoroughly rinsed. Introduce any new food item in small amounts to allow a guinea pig's system to adjust to it gradually.  

The best guinea pig cages are usually wire cages with a solid bottom (metal or plastic) that are easily removed for cleaning. Wire cage bottoms are not recommended as they can easily injure your pet’s toes or feet. A cage for a single guinea pig should be at least 24-by-24 inches wide and a minimum of 15 inches high. For two or more guinea pigs, a minimum 24-by-36 inches floor size is recommended. Add a small house inside the cage so the guinea pig has a private refuge when stressed or tired. This can be a small cardboard box or a commercially-produced house available at your local pet store. 

Aquariums and plastic tubs are NOT recommended. They are usually not large enough, do not offer proper ventilation, and isolate the guinea pig from its surroundings by inhibiting sight, sound, and smell. 

To ensure the good health of your guinea pig, keep bedding clean. Aspen or kiln-dried pine shavings are good, inexpensive bedding. Hay/straw can be used but is messier to clean and not as absorbent. The recycled pelleted beddings on the market are very nice but more expensive. Do not use cedar and pine bedding that is NOT kiln-dried because the oils in the wood risk your pet’s health.

A guinea pig must be an indoor pet except in tropical climates. When providing housing for guinea pigs, keep the area dry and free from drafts, and maintain a temperature between 65 and 79 degrees. A guinea pig’s cage should be in an environment that's well lit (but not exposed to direct sunlight) and offers the guinea pig access to daily human activities.

A suitably sized cage and play time with you every day will meet your guinea pig's exercise needs. Exercise wheels or balls are not recommended as guinea pigs usually don't enjoy them, and they may even injure your pet's spine, legs, or feet.

When picking up your guinea pig, be sure to support their entire body with two hands. Guinea pigs are easily injured if dropped, and may nip or bite if not properly handled. Children should always be supervised when handling guinea pigs.

Interactions with dogs, cats, and other pets should always be carefully supervised. Never leave a guinea pig unattended in the presence of a dog, cat, ferret, or any other predatory animal.

Guinea pigs are very social creatures and require daily attention from their human friends and/or other guinea pigs. If you live in a household where everyone is gone much of the day, please consider having two guinea pigs to keep each other company. Guinea pigs kept in pairs will be happier and more entertaining pets.You may want to learn how to begin the process of bonding guinea pigs.