THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE BUYING A GUINEA PIG

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE BUYING A GUINEA PIG

The Guinea Pig

Guinea pigs originated from the wilds of South America. Here they still live

today in the hills and caves, especially where there is a lot of vegetation. Wild

guinea pigs usually are more active during the day, as at night they become

prey to the night-time predators. They are from the rodent family, having a

scientific name of Cavia Porcellos or Cavy. There are nine species in all, with

the male being named a boar, the female sow, and the baby a pup or piglet. The

Incas were supposed to be the first people to domesticate these small

mammals. In the wild they eat grass, and live in burrows. They tend to live in

large groups or herds, as they are very sociable animals. These groups are led

by one boar, which is the only one who can mate and breed with the sow. They

have a very good sense of smell, hearing and touch that make up for their poor

sight. They have large heads, small ears, short legs, tailless apart from a little

vertebrae and plump bodies. They can come in the colours of black, brown, red,

white or a combination of each.

As pets they are ideal for children, as they do not bite or scratch. Guinea pigs

have a very good memory when it comes to remembering their owners. When

choosing a pet things that should be observed are whether they are active, alert

or quiet. The latter could mean they are ill. These loveable social animals can be

very vocal when they want to be, especially if they are trying to tell you

something, like meal time. The different noises they make are squeals, chirps,

squeaks and whistles.

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When buying your first guinea pig there is a lot to remember. The set up cost is

more than their everyday care. They will need a large cage, because they prefer

a lot of space, due to their origin. They will need bedding, such as wood

shavings, but check that this looks clean and well shaved. A water bottle is

essential, as they must always be provided with fresh water, and a ceramic food

bowl heavy enough so that they do not tip it up. The cage will also require a hay

rack for hay or to keep their fruit and vegetables in. Also try to provide a

something like a pvc tube for them to hide in, because they like security when

they are sleeping. Try to buy food with vitamin C added, as their bodies do not

produce this on their own or purchase a vitamin supplement that can be added

to their water. Please do not become alarmed if your pet suddenly starts eating

their own faeces. This is one hundred percent normal, because they get more

nutrients and minerals from it when recycled. Place the guinea pigs' cage in a

well-lit area, and not too close to a heat source, because they easily get heat

stroke. Always ensure that they have adequate ventilation, but not near any

drafts. These animals will enjoy toys in their cage that they can climb, push or

chew. Good toys are wooden that they can easily chew, and light enough to

push around. Clean the guinea pig¡¯s cage at least once a week. They are very

clean animals, and dislike a dirty cage.

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Common diseases and ailments

The signs to look for if a guinea pig starts to feel unwell are; hair loss, weight

loss, panting, sneezing, wheezing, coughing, discharge, diarrhoea or seizures. If

they suddenly become quiet, listless and start to huddle in a corner of the cage,

this is time to check out your guinea pig.

Bites

These animals do not bite deliberately, but if their teeth are starting to grow too

long, they can nip each other when playing. If this happens bathe in antiseptic

to keep the wound clean. If it becomes infected seek veterinary advice

immediately.

Bloat

Bloat is very serious in a guinea pig, and can result in rapid death. If you can

spot the signs early enough to get medical treatment it needs, this may prevent

it losing its life. Bloat is very painful causing rapid heart rate, breathing

difficulties, no appetite, inactivity, constipation and a build-up of wind and

water in the abdomen.

Ears

The ears tend to get infections, become injured and attract parasites. The

symptoms of this will be excessive scratching around the ears, shaking and

tilting of the head and a loss of balance. Seek medical advice.

Eyes

The most common conditions of the eyes are pink eye or cataracts. Seek

medical advice.

Pneumonia

This illness is very common, and results in death. The main signs to look for

are coughing and sneezing. If any of these develop seek a veterinary¡¯s help

immediately.

Teeth

A guinea pig's teeth carry on growing, and if they are not cared for properly

can become overgrown. When this happens it can be very painful, causing

the animal not to be able to eat properly. Always make sure there is plenty

of hay, and chewable toys in their cage to help prevent this. If it is not

caught straight away their teeth will begin to grow into the roof of the mouth

or cheeks. Seek medical advice if this happens.

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