Special Care - Guinea Pigs

Guinea Pigs originated from South America where they were kept as food animals. Over the years they have become one of Britain’s most popular “furry pets”. They are bread as show animals and have a multitude of colours, and coat textures giving everyone total individuality. Their voices are also unique amongst the animal kingdom, high pitched, and squeaky they “talk” away to each other and to their owners whenever they are stressed, or wishing to let you know they want something.

GPs should be kept in a hutch preferably directly attached to a run, or let out into a run on a daily basis. The hutch should be solid walled in sections, but also have an open front. It is important one area is blocked off so as to stop there being drafts which could mean them running the risk of catching a chill.

They can be outdoors in the summer, but best brought either indoors, or into a garage or similar in the winter. They are best to be kept within temperatures of around 16-24°C.and to avoid big fluctuations in temperature e.g outside during daytime and brought indoors at night. GPs should be bedded on sawdust, wood shavings or hay, and will require cleaned out 2-3 times a week.

Feeding guinea pigs normall revolves around fresh hay, and also a commercial mix such as Supa Guinea Pig. GPs share a similarity to us in that they can get “scurvy”, so it is important to ensure that they have enough Vitamin C intake. This can be in commercial diet, or added to their water.

Guinea pigs are prone to a number of problems, the most common of which are:

Cystic ovaries – are remarkably common in older GPs. While not normally a major concern, they can often warrant surgical removal via ovariohysterectomy.

Mites – GPs are very prone to mites, which can cause dandruff and dry skin. These can be treated easily, though it is important to remember to treat all the GPs in the household.

Dental problems – are common, especially if the diet is not optimal. Hence it is important to maintain the fibre content of the diet.

Neutering of guinea pigs, both male and female, is regularly performed in the practice, to prevent unwanted pregnancy, cystic ovaries, or minimise sibling rivalry.