- Guinea pigs are social animals, and you should consider keeping a same sex pair so they have company. A pair of females is a good choice; a pair of males may be fine but may fight.
- They are a long-term commitment, with an expected life span of around 5-7 years, although up to 10 isn't unusual.
- They need a large cage (but fortunately it is easy to meet their needs with a home made cage).
- While usually quiet, they can call out quite loudly and can be active both day and night.
- They may be nervous at first but rarely bite and generally become very tame with frequent handling.
- Usually good family pets (but make sure children handle them gently).
Cage Size
Guinea pigs, being social creatures, do best kept in groups of two or more, but most readily available commercial cages are not large enough to house a pair of pigs. The guideline is 2 square feet per guinea pig; so for a pair you would need 4 square feet. Cages with wire floors must be avoided.
The good thing about guinea pigs is that they are fairly large and not all that big on climbing or chewing and are not likely to climb or jump over a wall that is a reasonable height (18 inches should contain most pigs). Several examples of clever cage solutions that utilize such items are children's wading pools, wire shelving and plastic storage tubs.
Bedding
For bedding, avoid cedar shavings and ideally pine as well. Aspen shavings are an acceptable choice, as is hay (a layer of paper underneath will help with absorbency). The newer recycled paper beddings are a good choice too, as are numerous other new types of pet-safe bedding and litter being made now. The cage will likely need to be cleaned weekly or more often.
Nest Box
A nest box or hiding place is a necessity - an overturned plastic tub or pail or a cardboard box is fine (the cardboard box can just be discarded if soiled and replaced). Large diameter PVC pipes (with thick walls) make good tunnels and places to hide too.
Toys
Toys such should be added for interest. Paper bags make good toys/hides, and crumpled paper, cardboard boxes, balls, wood blocks, hard plastic cat and rabbit toys, fleece tunnels, small fleece blankets, willow rabbit toys, and hanging bird toys might also interest your guinea pigs. Just make sure there are no small parts that might come off or get chewed off and swallowed.
Wheels are somewhat controversial; many experts believe that guinea pig bodies are not designed for this kind of exercise, and the risk of injury is too great. Try to provide exercise using other means.
Food Dishes and Water Bottle
For a food bowl, a heavy ceramic bowl is a good choice. Do not use too large of a bowl, or the guinea pig may climb in and unfortunately they are prone to defecating in their food bowls if they can get in. To keep a good supply of clean water, use a water bottle with a steel spout and ball, rather than a water bowl. Keep in mind that guinea pigs tend to drink a lot (and some "play" with the bottles) so keep an eye on their water supply throughout the day and replenish as necessary. A small hay hopper can be added to keep a supply of clean hay for the guinea pigs to nibble.
Article by: Sallie S.
