Guinea pigs are very social, and have a great temperament.  They do best in pairs, but if you are not breeding them, you should keep them in same sex pairs.  They are also talkers, and you will begin to love hearing the little squeeks and grunts they make.  They can live anywhere from 5 to 9 years.

Housing:  You should begin with a cage that is large enough for them to move around in, with a solid bottom.  Mesh or wire bottom cages can cause damage to the feet. Guinea Pigs are also sensitive to heat and cold, so make sure the cage is in an environment that will allow them to be comfortable. They can also frighten easily, so a small shelter or covered area for them to hide in is essential.

Handling:  Always pick up your Guinea pig by supporting it underneath.  Do not pick them up by the middle of their bodies, as this can cause too much pressure on the ribs and organs.  Regular handling will help them to become acustomed to hanling and will reduce their stress when you are holding them.

Feeding: Make sure that hay and fresh water are always available.  Pellets, leafy greens, and root veggies are a staple.  Too many veggies can cause diarrhea, so feed in moderation. They will also need vitamin C supplimented in the food or water. Use care when feeding table scraps. They have sensitive stomaches, so you will need to remove anything that is no longer edible.

Health: You will need to keep an eye on guinea pigs teeth, since they grow continuously and if they are not able to wear them down, the teeth can cause major problems.  Make sure your pig has plenty of fiber in the diet, and see your vet if you notice anything abnormal.




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