| Information about Ginea Pigs | ||
Basic Facts Guinea pigs, or cavies, are wonderful pets that originated in South America. They have sweet dispositions and are fairly vocal, with a vocabulary that consists of a variety of whistles and grunts. The come in a variety of colors and hair lengths. Popular varieties include the Dutch, Peruvian, Silkies, Abyssinian, and Teddies. Their average lifespan is five to eight years. Recommended Habitat A large comfortable cage with a solid floor should be provided for your new guinea pig. Provide a sleeping den for privacy, and clean shavings for bedding. Bedding should be changed completely once a week. Care and Diet Pelleted guinea pig diets are nutritionally balanced, and should therefore make up the majority of your pet’s diet. Guinea pigs are prone to Vitamin C deficiency, and so make sure that your pelleted food is supplemented with Vitamin C. A small handful of timothy or alfalfa hay is a daily source of fiber for your guinea pig. For variety, small amounts of carrot, spinach, broccoli, corn on the cob, or apple can be given. Do not overdo the fresh foods, as this can result in diarrhea. Provide fresh water at all times. Vitamin C can also be added to the water supply. Ensure that your guinea pig is given fresh water everyday. Guinea pigs, like rabbits, have teeth that grow constantly, and so providing mineral blocks and wood chews will help keep your pet’s teeth ground down. Time out of the cage is important to your guinea pig, so it can exercise and socialize. Handle your guinea pig gently. Pick him up with both hands, supporting his back end. When bringing your new pet home, though, give him twenty-four full hours to adjust to his new surroundings. If you another pet in the home, ensure that the guinea pigs cage is sturdy, and in a secure place. If you decide to keep two pigs, make sure that you have a very large cage. Two males will surely fight, as a male and a female will surely produce offspring. Gestation period for guinea pigs is sixty-five to seventy days, and weaning is usually complete at four weeks. Understand that in keeping more than one guinea pig, you may have to separate them and therefore provide two complete cages. For more information, or if you have any questions, feel free to come and visit one of our experienced retail associates, in-store. Supplies cage or starter kit |
