Basics

Feeding and watering

Guinea pigs should be fed a commercially produced complete diet for guinea pigs that you can buy from the pet shop or supermarket. The most important dietary factor is their need for Vitamin C; like humans, they can't make their own. They'll need at least 10mg/kg/day of Vitamin C. Whilst this is found in most commercial diets, it can disappear if the food is stored too long. Therefore you need to follow the manufacturer’s storage instructions and shelf life suggestions. You can also supplement your guinea pig’s diet with green foods, fruit and root vegetables, such as cabbage trimmings, small amounts of pear or celery. Guinea pigs are very sensitive to any dietary changes, so always introduce a new food gradually. Always give supplementary food in small bite sized pieces in moderation, and remember that acidic fruits such as apples can cause damage to a guinea pig’s mouth if fed to excess. Always make sure that any fruit and vegetables are well-washed. Guinea pigs need to have access to fresh water every day, which can be provided in bowls or sipper bottles. The containers should be cleaned regularly and make sure the water container is slightly above the floor but easy for your guinea pig to reach. Always check the sipper bottle regularly for leaks or air locks and if you decide to change from a bowl to a sipper bottle do this very gradually. The water bottle should be cleaned with sterilising solution once a week.

Feed your guinea pig twice a day, and get rid of any food they've not eaten.


Handling

Guinea pigs are fairly docile, but can get very anxious. They can run around the cage at high speed if stressed, and that can make catching them very difficult. Approach them quietly, and put one hand around the guinea pig's middle and shoulders, the other hand under the bottom. Always use both hands and make sure that they cannot fall, as even a very small drop can cause severe injuries.

Care

A guinea pig will want plenty of exercise and they like burrowing into hay or hiding inside tubs and pots. Make sure any container is big enough! They like having safe, well-washed twigs, such as apple tree twigs, to gnaw, to wear down their constantly growing teeth.

Long-haired guinea pigs need regular grooming with a brush and comb, as well as the occasional bath. Short-haired guinea pigs will only need a quick brush. Make sure, though, that your guinea pig is used to being handled before you start grooming.

Guinea pigs can suffer from quite a few diseases, but the risk can be minimised with good diet and housing. You should check them each day for any signs of illness, such as a decreased appetite or altered water intake, weight loss, diarrhoea, hair loss, scratching or any change in behaviour. If you are worried, always contact your vet.

Guinea pigs can get problems with their teeth in older age; watch out for any dribbling or if your guinea pig stops grooming. They can also develop overgrown claws. Your vet will be able to advise you about these problems.