There are quite a few things that one should be aware of before making such a significant commitment to a guinea pig. Here are some things to think about before getting a guinea pig for a pet, from its longevity to its social character:
1 - Time Expenditure
Despite their diminutive size, guinea pigs still need a lot of care. Every day, guinea pigs have to spend some time outside of their cage. They like the chance to extend their small legs, whether they are playing in an exercise pen or cuddling on your lap. A healthy, content guinea pig needs daily connection and care. They also require routine grooming. Longhaired breeds need daily brushing, while shorthaired types just need to be brushed once a week. Additionally, because guinea pigs' teeth never stop developing, routine dental care is essential. To help them wear down their expanding grill, they need chew toys.
2 - Family Support
The guinea pig is one example of a small animal that is frequently recommended as an excellent first pet for kids. They need to be handled carefully despite being as sturdy as a rabbit and more timid than a hamster. It is advisable to keep guinea pigs with elementary-aged kids or older. A younger child might throw the guinea pig unintentionally or pet it too vigorously, which could cause a painful bite.
3 - Social Animals
Guinea pigs are very gregarious and talkative animals. Guinea pigs purr quietly when they're happy, just like cats do. Whenever they see any of their preferred people, they have also been observed to squeak with joy. Guinea pigs, however, are happiest when they share a home with another guinea pig. Take home a pair of guinea pigs if you're thinking about expanding your family. Living alone increases the danger of guinea pigs becoming bored, lonely, and listless.
4 - Nutrition and Diet
The main component of your guinea pig's diet is premium grass hay, particularly Timothy hay. Timothy hay aids in maintaining their long teeth and keeps their digestive system functioning. Guinea pigs need a lot of vitamin C supplements in their food to stay healthy because they are unable to naturally manufacture it. For your pig, leafy greens, spinach, berries, or grapes are all excellent sources of vitamin C. As long as those pellets are specifically marked for guinea pigs and fortified with extra vitamin C, they can also consume only a small amount of pellets per day.
5 - Required Cages
A large home is crucial to the general pleasure and health of your guinea pig. One guinea pig needs a minimum of 7 square feet, whereas a pair needs an area of at least 8 to 10 square feet. Wire bottoms are particularly painful for their small toes, so their house needs a solid floor, like canvas. The right bedding, such as straw or shredded newspaper, is essential. Despite the fact that guinea pigs may be odorous tiny creatures, stay away from any scented or "odor-control" bedding because they might consume it and suffer serious internal harm. They also require a shelter such as a box, a tunnel, or a hut where they can feel secure and hide when necessary.
6 - Quiet
Guinea pigs occasionally emit a unique wheeking or whistling sound, frequently in need of attention or when anticipating receiving a favorite delicacy. The wheezing guinea pig may be very noisy, although typically not loud enough to disturb the neighbors. A guinea pig could be the wrong choice for you if you're seeking a pet whose vocals won't ever ruin a dinner party or afternoon sleep.
7 - Generally Simple to Control
Despite the fact that guinea pigs can seem anxious or wary at first, they typically grow highly amenable to gentle touch over time. They must be handled carefully, and kids should be watched around them, but even under duress, they're unlikely to bite.
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