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Cavies, aka The Guinea Pig
The guinea pig's endearing personality provides delightful
companionship for both adults and families. Once settled in their
new home they are inquisitive, friendly and talkative. At least one
guinea pig friend of the same sex is recommended. With proper care
and nutrition guinea pigs can live up to 10 years, though the
average is 4-8 years.
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What you should know about guinea pigs
Most guinea pigs love to be petted once they are on your lap, but
are cautious about being picked up. Children must be supervised when
holding a guinea pig and taught not to hug it tightly, or allow it
to fall or jump. Guinea pigs are easily injured and may nip if not
treated kindly. Regular exercise outside the cage is essential and
great fun for the whole family!
Housing
Guinea pigs should be kept safe indoors and need as large a cage as
possible, with room to exercise. Aquariums are not suitable, due to
poor ventilation. Look for a cage with a solid bottom, as wire
floors and ramps can injure guinea pigs' feet. Cover the floor with
bedding such as Carefresh or Aspen shavings. Avoid pine and cedar,
which contain harmful oils, and sawdust. The cage is best in a room
where your pets can enjoy your company. Guinea pigs love a house or
igloo to rest in.
Diet
A healthy diet is based on quality grass hay, e.g. Timothy, and
guinea pig pellets, freely available at all times. Babies under 6
months need alfalfa hay. Look for plain pellets containing vitamin C
but without seeds, nuts or colored treats. Also provide a cupful of
mixed fresh vegetables and fruit, rich in vitamin C, daily. Parsley,
Romaine lettuce, bell peppers and dandelions are good choices, with
a piece of carrot occasionally. Remember to supply fresh water in a
water bottle daily.
Cleaning
Spot clean soiled areas 2-3 times a week and scrub out the entire
cage weekly, as well as food dishes and water bottles. Always rinse
and dry the cage well before adding the bedding.
Fertility Male guinea pigs can be sexually mature at three weeks
old. Make absolutely sure of your pet's sex and keep males and
females separate at all times to prevent unwanted babies. Due to the
health risks, breeding pet guinea pigs is STRONGLY discouraged.
Health
Find a veterinarian specializing in exotic animals and experienced
in treating guinea pigs before you need one. The following signs
mean your pet needs URGENT veterinary care: not eating or drinking,
lethargy, sneezing, wheezing, crusty eyes, fluffed up fur, diarrhea,
blood in urine, loss of balance, tilted head, excessive scratching
or hair loss.
Warnings
Penicillin-based drugs, commonly prescribed for other pets, are
TOXIC to guinea pigs.
Exercise wheels and balls can cause injury to guinea pigs and should
never be used.
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