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Guinea pigs could become a true first furry friend for both children and adults. They are known for their calm nature and often enjoy being held. They can form tight bonds with humans, which can be strengthened through gentle handling and regular interaction. This bond allows for a deeper connection and trust between this small pet and its human companion.
5 fast facts about cute guinea pig
5 fast facts about cute guinea pig
These small pets could live up to eight years
They may grow up to twelve inches long
Their teeth never stop growing
They are quite sociable and establish great bonds with humans
There exist 13 different breeds from hairless to long-haired guinea pig
Guinea Pig Food
Guinea Pig Food
These furry-sized small animals are herbivores feeding on plants and greens. The following should be on the menu of a mammal:
Hay
Grass
Leaves
Fruits (strawberries, bananas, watermelon, blueberries)
Some vegetables (carrots, tomatoes, green peppers)
Guinea pig pellets
However, some vegetables and fruits are not recommended and may be even dangerous for these small animals. Avoid giving them garlic, onions, grapes, raisins and coconuts.
Unlike many other animals, they cannot produce Vitamin C on their own, so they require a daily Vitamin C supplement.
In many mixed foods, pellets are fortified with vitamin C. However, these pellets are often considered the least tasty component, which leads to some guinea pigs choosing to leave them behind.
In addition to pellets, fresh vegetables are another important source of vitamin C in guinea pig diets. Some vegetables that are particularly rich in vitamin C include kale, parsley, spinach, salad peppers, and broccoli (specifically the florets, not the stems). It is recommended that the majority of your pet's vegetable portion consists of leafy greens.
Furthermore, do not forget to provide your pet with clean water daily.
Guinea Pig Cages
Guinea Pig Cages
Many cages marketed for guinea pigs are often insufficiently sized. These creatures require ample space to roam, with separate areas for nesting, bathroom needs, and food and water. It is important to recognize that no animal is meant to live in a cage all the time. Therefore, it is recommended to provide your small animal with daily time outside of their enclosure to stretch their legs, explore, and exercise.
In the case of guinea pig cages, the general rule is that bigger is better. Providing a larger living space allows for a more comfortable and enriched environment for your guinea pig's overall well-being.
The best guinea pig cage should be big enough and have a solid floor and sidebars. It could be multi-level when the second level is easily accessible for small animals.
They could live in groups, but preferably of the same gender. So, while selecting the guinea pig cage make sure it is spacy enough for a water bottle, a food dish, a hay manger, and a hiding house for privacy. These creatures like hiding and burrowing.
You should fill cages with a few inches of bedding made from a spine, recycled paper or aspen. Do not forget to change it completely at least once a month and remove droppings regularly.
As these small pets like chewing and their teeth grow all the time, you could get guinea pig cages that are edible for them to gnaw on thus keeping the teeth healthy!
Guinea Pig Care
Guinea Pig Care
Regular grooming is essential for guinea pigs. Short haired breeds can be adequately maintained with a once-a-week brushing, while long haired guinea pigs require daily grooming to prevent matting and tangling of their fur.
The recommended temperature range for these furry animals is approximately 65-75 degrees Fahrenheit. It is important to keep their housing away from strong heat sources such as direct sunlight, wood stoves, fireplaces, and heating vents. The small pets are unable to sweat and are particularly vulnerable to heat stroke.
Avoid placing your pet’s cage in unheated rooms, breezeways, garages, or other chilly locations. Instead, choose a draft-free area away from doors and windows, and consider placing the cage on an elevated surface.
Guinea pigs are not well-suited to humid conditions. Dampness can lead to the growth of mold in their hay and bedding, increasing the risk of illness. It is important to maintain a dry environment for their well-being.
For some exercise, you could let these animals out of cages but do not leave them unattended as they might be scared by cats or dogs.
Being “piggy” in their nature these pets love chewing all the time. Be sure that all dangerous items like electrical cords are far away from such cute creatures. Do not leave them unsupervised.
When we are talking about guinea pig toys, exercise wheels and other balls are not fit for them. These mammals are much larger than other small pets like rats or mice and may injure themselves.
Instead, all-kind hiding tunnels or wooden chewing balls for dental health may be a good solution.
Guinea Pig Noises
Guinea Pig Noises
It is essential to consider both the sound and body language of your guinea pig when interpreting their sounds. Understanding the context of your pet's body language and the environment they are in is essential for accurately interpretation of guinea pig sounds.
Additionally, it is important to note that not all guinea pigs will make all sounds. Some guinea pigs may not enthusiastically wheek in the morning for their breakfast, and others may not bubble while relaxing on your lap. However, the absence of these vocalizations does not necessarily indicate unhappiness in guinea pigs.
The animals have unique behaviors and sounds that express their personality. They could produce up to 11 different sounds.
They can make a happy noise that sounds like a boat engine when content or exploring, purr when being petted, scream when frightened, squeal to attract attention or express pain, and use a sway accompanied by a rumble or purr to intimidate a rival or attract a mate. They can also perform an animated combination of shaking, leaping, and skipping, signifying happiness.
Guinea Pigs for Children
Guinea Pigs for Children
These furry small animals are rather sociable and playful and will be a great first pet for children, ideally, those who are elementary-aged or older. Being gentle and energetic furry creatures, they can provide hours of entertainment and companionship for kids.
However, it's important to supervise younger children when they are handling guinea pigs to ensure the safety of both the child and the pet.
They also make great classroom pets and fit perfectly in schools and kindergartens.
Several reasons for having a guinea pig as a pet for children
Several reasons for having a guinea pig as a pet for children
Caring for this pet can be a valuable learning experience for children, teaching them about responsibilities and boundaries. Taking care of an animal helps children understand the importance of looking after something. Daily tasks such as feeding, providing fresh water, and cleaning the cage teach children the importance of meeting their pet's needs.
Guinea pigs are generally easy to care for. They are considered low-maintenance pets, requiring minimal time and effort. With a topped-up water bottle, fresh food, regular spot cleaning, and a few toys for entertainment, they are generally content for the day.
Guinea pigs are friendly and can be easily tamed. Once a bond of friendship is formed, they will express their delight with a squeaking sound when you enter a room and show interest in interacting with their favorite human.
Guinea pigs make wonderful companions for children. When children learn how guinea pigs communicate their feelings, it brings them joy to know that they understand each other. Being able to recognize signs of hunger or distress and meeting their piggy's needs can be a rewarding experience for children.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do guinea pigs bite?
Usually, guinea pigs are friendly pets and do not typically bite without cause. However, like any animal, they may bite if they feel threatened, or scared, or if they are not handled properly. It's important to handle guinea pigs gently and with care to avoid causing them stress or discomfort. If a small animal does bite, it's usually a sign that they are feeling uncomfortable or fearful and it's best to give them some space.
- Are guinea pigs nocturnal?
No, guinea pigs are not nocturnal creatures. Being diurnal they are most active in the daytime and like humans sleep at night.
- Do guinea pigs like to be held?
Generally, guinea pigs enjoy being held. However, handle them gently and securely to make them feel safe. Always use both hands, placing one hand under their hind legs and the other to support their torso. Remember, each mammal is unique and may have different comfort levels when it comes to handling. Always respect their boundaries and give them time to get used to being held.
- How often to trim guinea pig nails?
Nail trimming should be done no less than once a month. Proper nail care is essential to prevent various problems related to overgrown nails.
- Do guinea pigs smell?
Typically, these furry animals do not have a strong smell. However, if not cleaned regularly their cages can develop an unpleasant smell. Therefore, it is recommended to remove droppings and replace the bedding frequently.
- How much do guinea pigs cost?
Guinea pigs cost around $45 which could depend on their breed and location. Do not forget about the additional costs of their cage, food and other care.
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