Curious about guinea pig facts?
Whether you’re a first-time or seasoned guinea pig owner, this guide from us here at HayDay will unveil some fascinating tidbits about these super cute pets.
From their origins and unique physical traits to their behaviour and dietary needs, discover everything you need to know about guinea pigs - and of course, the importance of feeding them high-quality, barn dried hay!
Shop here > Dust extracted hay for guinea pigs.
Key Takeaways
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Guinea pigs, domesticated in South America around 5000 BCE, have a rich history intertwined with Andean cultures and their importation to Europe in the 16th century.
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These pets require a specific diet rich in guinea pig hay, pellets rich in vitamin C and fresh vegetables daily to support dental and digestive health and prevent any health issues. A spacious and secure enclosure is a key component too for optimal well-being.
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Guinea pigs are social animals that thrive on interaction (often with another piggy friend), and proper handling techniques are essential for building a lasting bond and ensuring their comfort.
Guinea Pigs' Origins and History
Guinea pigs, or Cavia porcellus, have a wild backstory front simply just prey animals.
Way back around 5000 BCE, people living in South America - think Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia - started taming these rodents. For Andean people, they weren’t just dinner; they starred in big social and spiritual events.
Fast forward to the 16th century: Spanish explorers brought them to Europe, where the rich snatched them up as quirky pets—not food.
Wondering about the name "guinea pig"? Where it came from is a total mystery! Maybe it’s about their price, their vibe, or some old coin called a guinea. No one’s sure, but it stuck.
Unique Physical Characteristics
Guinea pigs are adorable little standouts! With 13 breeds to choose from, each with their own unique characteristics, you’ve got tons of options.
Their fur consists of different shades - olive, cinnamon, gray - making every piggy a total original.
These chubby champs sport wide heads, tiny ears, and a funky 14-toe setup—four up front, three in back—perfect for digging and scampering (in the wild).
Their coolest quirk? Incisors that never stop growing! They’ve got to chew fibrous foods to wear their teeth down, which keeps them healthy.
Guinea Pig Behaviour and Communication
Guinea pigs are lively little buddies with big personalities! They "talk" with cute guinea pig noises and sounds - like wheeking when they’re happy or excited (most likely for food and treats!)
Ever seen them popcorn? That’s when they bounce and twist mid-air because they’re so happy - it’s a total joy and fun to watch!
Figuring out these quirks keeps their world fun and stress-free - perfect for happy piggies!
Dietary Needs and Vitamin C Importance
Feeding your guinea pigs a healthy and balanced diet is super important! So what do guinea pigs eat?
Their main meal is and always should be high-quality guinea pig hay, especially long stem timothy hay or soft meadow hay, to keep their dental and digestive systems healthy.
By feeding other types types of grass hay such as ryegrass hay, oat hay or alfalfa hay, and you’ve got a winning combo.
Here’s the biggie: guinea pigs need vitamin C because they can’t make it themselves. Without it, they’re at risk for scurvy which causes swollen joints, skin issues and wobbly legs. Foods rich in vitamin C include pellets, and vegetables such as kale to keep their vitamin C levels healthy.
Housing and Habitat Requirements
Guinea pigs need a cosy and spacious home to thrive! When it comes to housing guinea pigs; it should be a solid-floor cage with at least a 2m x 1m play zone so they can zoom around and sleep contently.
Stock it with must-haves: plenty of great quality hay, drinking spots and plenty of hideouts to keep them enriched.
In warmer weather, it's important to create shaded spots and to monitor the heat. It is important to clean their space regularly, and to replenish hay and water twice daily.
Reproduction and Lifespan
Want the scoop on guinea pig babies and how long they stick around? Females are ready reproduce with year-round cycles, popping out up to five litters a year - usually 1 to 4 pups each - especially in spring.
Male guinea pigs start to begin mating at 2 to 3 months, while females are usually ready from 2 months. After a 59-to-72-day pregnancy, out fully furred, eyes open with a full set of teeth already in place!
With great care, these little baby guinea pigs can hit seven years, though some superstars have stretched it to nearly 15 - the record’s 14 years and 10.5 months!
Knowing their baby-making and life vibes helps you keep them healthy and happy.
Common Health Issues
When it comes to guinea pigs health, there are a few health issues to look out for, such as:
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Dental issues: keeping their teeth in check
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Digestive issues: gut and stomach health
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Vitamin C deficiency: ensuring they eat food rich in vitamin C
Dental health problems are commonly associated with a poor diet, specifically a lack of fibre (and over-reliance on cereals). Naturally coarse stems help assist with the maintenance of healthy dental function.
Like the teeth of rabbits, chinchillas and degus, guinea pigs have teeth which are known as hypsodont - which means they erupt continuously throughout their life. This trait essentially relies on abrasion from chewing fibrous feeds (such as timothy and meadow hay) in order to maintain dental health and comfort. ‘Stemmy’ fibre encourages a correct chewing action, promoting dental health.
There's also vitamin C, if a guinea pig's diet isn't rich in it, then they're at risk of developing scurvy which causes swollen joints amongst other issues.
It is recommended to book regular vet trips, at least once a year, to keep on top of any issues.
Social Nature and Companionship
Interaction with other guinea pigs is what they love, keeping them happy and healthy. It is recommended to always keep guinea pigs in pairs as they are social animals.
Common pairings include two males, two females or a neutered male and female guinea pig.
By keeping guinea pigs together, you're improving their mental well-being and keeping them happy and enriched.
Handling and Interaction Tips
Want to win over your guinea pig? Handling them right is the trick! According to the RSPCA:
"Guinea pigs who've been well handled by people from a young age can learn that humans are friends and companions. If they receive little handling when young, or are roughly handled at any age, they may find human contact distressing and can be afraid, run away, hide or show aggression.
Guinea pigs living indoors can see humans as important companions. If your guinea pig has to be kept alone, it's vital to give them companionship by interacting with them everyday."
Summary
In summary, guinea pigs are wonderful pets that require proper care and attention to thrive. From understanding their origins and unique physical characteristics to providing the right diet and housing, every aspect of guinea pig care is essential.
By following the tips and information provided in this guide, you can ensure your guinea pigs live a happy, healthy life. Embrace the joy of caring for these charming creatures and enjoy the companionship they offer.
Relevant Links
Best Foods to Feed Guinea Pigs - HayDay HQ
Guinea Pig Health: How To Spot Symptoms - HayDay HQ
Keeping Guinea Pigs Together - RSPCA
What Can Guinea Pigs Eat? - HayDay HQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can't guinea pigs produce their own Vitamin C?
Guinea pigs cannot produce their own Vitamin C because they lack the enzyme necessary for its synthesis, making dietary intake essential to avoid deficiencies such as scurvy.
How can I tell if my guinea pig is happy?
A happy guinea pig typically exhibits behaviours such as popcorning, wheeking, and social interaction, including grooming each other and engaging with their owners. Observing these signs can help you understand your pet's contentment.
What are the best foods to include in a guinea pig's diet?
To ensure optimal health, a guinea pig's diet should primarily include hay, balanced pellets, and fresh green vegetables, with a focus on vitamin C-rich options like broccoli and leafy greens. Prioritising these foods will greatly benefit your guinea pig's well-being.
How do I create a comfortable habitat for my guinea pig?
To create a comfortable habitat for your guinea pig, provide a spacious enclosure with a solid floor, essential supplies such as hay and chew toys, and multiple hiding spots for security. Additionally, maintain regular cleaning and manage temperature appropriately to ensure their well-being.
How often should I handle my guinea pig?
You should handle your guinea pig daily to promote bonding and ensure their happiness, always using gentle techniques and positive reinforcement. Supporting their body properly while picking them up is essential for their comfort.
