Guinea Pig Care

Are you looking for a pet that is small, easy to care for, but lots of fun? A Guinea pig may fit the bill! These little furballs really do make charming little pets. A Castle Hills TX vet discusses Guinea pig care  in this article.

Cage

Your pint-sized pal will spend the majority of his time in his cage, so it’s important to make sure he has a comfy one. The cage should have a solid bottom. Wire floors don’t hold substrate, and can even cause injuries. You’ll also need to add a suitable substrate, a hide box, food dishes, and a water bottle. You may want to include a litterbox and hay rack as well. Chew toys are another must. Ask your vet for specific advice.

Roommates

Guinea pigs are very sociable and friendly. In fact, they can get depressed without any buddies to snuggle and play with. We recommend getting at least two. You’ll need to make sure they are the same sex, though. Otherwise, you could find yourself with more furballs than you bargained for!

Diet

Feeding a Guinea pig isn’t exactly rocket science, but there are some things you’ll need to be aware of. Your little buddy can have commercial pellets for his main meals. You’ll want to supplement this with grass hay and fresh produce. This is where things can get a bit tricky. Not all fruits and veggies are safe or suitable for cavies. Some are okay once in a while, but shouldn’t be fed daily. It’s also important to make sure your tiny friend is getting Vitamin C. Otherwise, he could get sick! Ask your vet for more information.

Veterinary Care

Guinea pigs can get sick or injured, just like any other pet. Don’t ignore your little buddy’s care needs! Ask your vet to recommend an appointment schedule. This is also a great time for you to get some specific advice. Don’t be afraid to ask about things like nutrition, cage setup, and signs of illness. Part of being a great pet owner is just being well-informed about these things.

Fun!

Guinea pigs really are adorable. You may find that the sounds they make—officially/unofficially called a wheek—can really melt your heart. These guys are also very affectionate. Have fun with your furry buddy!

As your local Castle Hills TX veterinary clinic, we are here to help!  Call us anytime!