A brief guide to a happy piggy

 

Guinea pigs are social animals and prefer to live with at least one companion. It is best to keep littermates together instead of mixing guinea pigs from different litters, as this may lead to fighting. Female pairs or groups will be fine, and males can live happily together but may become aggressive towards each other if females are nearby. Females and males will live happily together, but it is important that the males are castrated to prevent additions to your family.

Pet guinea pigs need feeding twice every day in a bowl that cannot be tipped over. It is important to only feed small amounts of complete food. The diet should mainly consist of good quality hay or dried grass, along with a variety of fresh greens to ensure your guinea pig gets the correct balance of fibre as well as vitamins and minerals. Clean fresh water should be provided either in a bowl or suitable water bottle.

Hutches must be large enough to allow exercise. They should be 4-5 times the length of your guinea pig when stretched out. Where possible guinea pigs should be provided with an outdoor run, as plenty of daily exercise is very important. Guinea pigs are naturally frightened of large open spaces but love playing in a run that contains boxes, flowerpots, drainpipes and logs.

Vaccinations are not necessary but it’s a good idea to take your guinea pig to the vet once a year for a general health check.

Nicola Rankin MRCVS BVMS.