Guinea Pig Care Basics: Housing, Diet and Social Needs
Hay, vitamin C and good company are the three pillars of guinea pig care.
Guinea pigs are gentle, talkative companions, but they have specific needs. Meeting them early sets your pets up for a long, healthy life.
Keep them in company
Guinea pigs are social animals and usually do best in pairs or small groups of compatible animals. Ask a vet or rescue about safe pairings.
Housing
Give them as much floor space as you can, with solid flooring and bedding, and not a wire floor, which can hurt their feet. Provide hiding spots and keep the cage away from drafts and direct sun.
Diet
- Unlimited fresh grass hay, such as timothy, should be the bulk of the diet and keeps teeth worn down.
- Guinea pigs cannot make their own vitamin C, so offer vitamin C-rich vegetables daily, such as bell pepper.
- Choose plain pellets made for guinea pigs, in measured amounts.
Health and handling
Pick them up gently with two hands, supporting their bottom. Watch for a drop in appetite, weight loss, drooling or dirty bottoms, and contact an exotics veterinarian promptly, because small animals can decline quickly.
This article is general pet care information and not a substitute for advice from a licensed veterinarian.
