Avian and Exotic Animal Clinic
9330 Waldemar Road Indianapolis, IN 46268
Dr. Angela Lennox D.V.M. Dipl. ABVP - Avian
www.exoticvetclinic.com (317) 879-8633
Guinea Pig Care Sheet
Introduction:
Guinea pigs are domestic rodents. Their wild ancestors are still found today in South
America. Pet guinea pigs are known for their friendly temperament and suitability as
pets. There are several different breeds in a wide variety of colors and coat lengths.
Their average life span is 4-6 years. Guinea pigs are born fully haired and able to eat
solid food within a few days, although they nurse for 2-3 weeks. Females reach sexual
maturity at 2 months, and males at 3 months. Pregnancy averages 68 days, and a typical
litter is 2-4 pups. Females can become pregnant almost immediately after giving birth, so
remove the male from the cage as soon as the female has given birth. Guinea pigs are
social creatures. However, when placing a new guinea pig with an already established
pet it is recommended that they meet in a neutral territory until it is certain they will get
along. It is not recommended that a young or baby pig be placed with an
established/older pig.
Captivity Requirements:
Guinea pigs need unlimited hay and high quality pellets. Guinea pigs should be protected
from extreme temperatures. They will overheat very easily, even at temperatures in the
low 80°’s. The cage itself should be as large as possible and be easy to clean.
Recommended cage size for one pig is at least 3’x2’. Adding additional pigs require
larger cages. The floor should be solid. Wire floors may lead to foot problems, and are
best avoided. Aquariums are often used, but the ventilation is poor unless the tank is very
large. The best cages are those with a deep plastic bottom half and a wire upper half with
a lid. They prevent the guinea pigs from kicking out a lot of bedding material, but allow
for good airflow and easy attachment of a water bottle to the side. Guinea pigs also like
to have a hide box where they can feel secure in the cage. Bedding material should
ideally be hardwood (aspen) shavings or recycled newspaper products. The softwood
shavings like cedar are not recommended, as the oils in these woods can be irritating to
the skin and respiratory tract of guinea pigs (and other animals as well).
Diet:
Guinea pigs require a daily source of vitamin C in their diet. Most commercial guinea
pig diets contain vitamin C. However, this important vitamin is easily degraded if the
food is exposed to heat or light, or stored beyond 30 days of manufacturing. We highly
recommend Oxbow brand guinea pig foods. A special processing technique has proven
to maintain adequate levels of Vitamin C for up to six months after manufacturing, as
long as the food is protected from excessive heat or light. Alternatively, vitamin C can be
provided in the form of treats formulated especially for guinea pigs, vitamin C drop in the
water (must be changed daily), or in the form of fresh dark leafy vegetables offered daily.
Good examples are collard greens, kale, turnip or mustard greens, spinach, and parsley
and romaine lettuce. Guinea pigs should have free access to timothy or grass hay at all
times. This is important as a source of dietary fiber to help their digestive system
function well, and to help keep their teeth worn down. Alfalfa hay is recommended for
growing and reproducing female guinea pigs only. Make any changes or additions to the
diet gradually to avoid diarrhea. *NOTE: If your guinea pig ever stops eating, seek
veterinary help immediately.
Diseases:
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Respiratory disease and pneumonia
Lice and mites
Vitamin C deficiency
Trauma, wounds