Store Hours:
648 Putney Road
MondayFriday
9am-7pm
Saturday
9am-6pm
Brattleboro, VT 05301
(802) 257-3700
Sunday
12noon-6
pm
CARE Sheet
Guinea Pig
(Cavia porecellus)
Origin:
South America
Size:
8-11" long
Pet Status:
Excellent
Life span:
8-10 years
Breeding ability:
Good, if certain parameters are followed. Gestation period of 60-70
days; average litter 3-4 babies
Compatibility with other species:
Not recommended
Feeding:
Pelleted food, fruits, vegetables & vitamin supplements
Bio: “Cavies”, generally classified as rodents, originated in South America. They were
domesticated 3000-4000 B.C. by the Incas of Peru, who bred them for fur and food. English
and Dutch sailors brought them to Europe (via Guinea) where they became popular pets.
They have a great ability to adapt to different climates, they can be easily housed and fed and
tend to be very hardy. There a several different recognized breeds of Guinea Pigs which
come in a variety of color variations. They can vary in size anywhere from that of a large rat
to a small dog, with an average weight of approximately 2 pounds.
General diet: Guinea Pigs are herbivores so they need fruits, vegetables and grains in their
diet. Carbohydrates and fibers are the basis of their diet. A good stable food is the Guinea
Pig Pellets found in pet stores. Fresh water must also be provided on a daily basis.
Treats/extra foods: Additions to a Guinea Pigs’ diet should be made carefully.
Fresh
greens, timothy/grass hay and small amounts of fruits or vegetables are appropriate.
Vitamins/supplements: Guinea Pigs have high vitamin C and folic acid requirements.
However, unlike most mammals, they do not manufacture their own vitamin C so their diet
must be supplemented accordingly.
Drops and tablets are available. Kale, cabbage and
other dark leafy vegetables are also high in fiber and ascorbic acid.
Red bell peppers also
make an excellent treat because of their high vitamin C content.
Housing: Housing is a major factor in the maintenance of a healthy pet. Enclosures can be
made of wire, stainless steel, durable plastic or glass as long as they provide good ventilation,
are easy to clean and provide plenty of room.
Wood is generally not good as it is difficult
to clean and guinea pigs may destroy it by chewing. The recommended minimum size for a
single pig is 2 square feet but, ideally, the bigger the space the better.
Sanitation/General care: Use bedding materials that are clean, non-toxic, absorbent, dust
free and easily replaced. Some bedding materials are wood shavings (Aspen or kiln dried
pine NO CEDAR), shredded paper, processed ground corn cob or commercial pellets.
Provide a house or other structure where the pig can hide when frightened or tired. Keep the
cage on a stand or sturdy table away from cold, damp areas, out of direct sunlight and drafts.
Guinea pigs have a very sensitive nature and are also more comfortable in quiet spots, away
from noises, stress and other animals.
General Maintenance:
Clean the cage thoroughly with hot water at least once each week.
Always remove non-eaten greens, fruits and vegetables at the end of each way and wash all
food dishes with hot water at least twice weekly. Make sure that a constant supply of fresh
water is available at all times. Guinea pigs need plenty of exercise and love to play. They
should be handled regularly and can be allowed to run free, under strict supervision. You can
also place toys, ladders, blocks and other materials in their cages to encourage this type of
activity. Guinea pigs are nocturnal soy they will also require quiet rest periods during the day.
Health care: Guinea pigs are hardy animals and rarely get sick, however if not taken care of
properly, they can become ill. Signs that an animal is not feeling well include listlessness,
huddling in a corner, a dull matted coat, refusing to eat, labored breathing, runny nose, watery
eyes and constipation. In most cases medications are available at your pet store, in some
cases a trip to the vet may be required.
Taming/handling: When picking up a guinea pig, do so with both hands evenly supporting the
entire body. Pigs can also be taught simple tricks, such as standing on their hind legs to take
food from your fingers. With enough time and patience, guinea pigs can even be taught to
use a litter box.
Supplies checklist:

Appropriately sized cage

Food bowls and water bottle

Bedding

High quality guinea pig pellet

Timothy hay

Vitamin supplements

Hiding place and/or nesting box

Chew sticks and toys

Book on the raising and training of guinea pigs.