Guinea Pigs

Info

Imagine a small, fluffy creature with a cheerful demeanor, a repertoire of delightful squeaks, and an uncanny ability to bring joy to anyone who crosses its path. Meet the guinea pig—a beloved companion animal that has been a part of human lives for centuries. In this all-encompassing guide, we’ll delve into the fascinating universe of guinea pigs, uncovering their rich history, diverse breeds, and the nuances of their care. Whether you’re a seasoned pet owner or simply curious about these endearing rodents, prepare to embark on an enlightening journey that celebrates everything guinea pig.

Average Size

8–12 inches

Color

Brown, white, black, agouti, tricolor

Origin

South America

The Origin of Guinea Pigs

Guinea pigs, scientifically known as Cavia porcellus, hail from the Andean regions of South America, specifically modern-day Peru, Bolivia, Ecuador, and Colombia. Contrary to their name, they are neither from Guinea nor are they pigs. The misnomer “guinea pig” is believed to have originated from European traders who brought them back from the “New World” and possibly sold them for a guinea (a British coin) or because they were transported via Guinea. Indigenous peoples of the Andes domesticated guinea pigs over 3,000 years ago, not for companionship, but primarily as a food source and for religious ceremonies. They hold a significant place in Andean culture, featuring in folklore and traditional medicine. Their journey from South American highlands to European households in the 16th century marked the beginning of their global popularity as affectionate pets.

How Big Are Guinea Pigs ?

Adult guinea pigs typically weigh between 1.5 to 2.6 pounds (700 to 1,200 grams). At birth, pups weigh around 2.8 to 4.2 ounces (80 to 120 grams) and are precocial—they are born fully furred, with open eyes and are able to eat solid food within hours. Their growth rate is rapid during the first few weeks, reaching full size by about six months of age. There are various breeds, some larger than others, with the American guinea pig being the most common and the Skinny pig, a hairless breed, being smaller in stature.

Characteristics

Characteristics of Guinea Pigs

Habitat

In the wild, guinea pigs inhabit grasslands, forest edges, and swamps. They are highly social animals, living in groups called herds that consist of several females (sows), a male (boar), and their offspring. Their natural habitat features dense vegetation which provides both food and cover from predators such as birds of prey, wild cats, and snakes. Guinea pigs create intricate networks of tunnels and paths through the grass, which they use to forage and escape danger. They are crepuscular, meaning they are most active during dawn and dusk, times when visibility for predators is lower.

Breeding

Guinea pigs have a fascinating reproductive process. Females reach sexual maturity as early as four weeks, and males at three weeks, though breeding is not recommended until they are older to ensure health and readiness. The gestation period is unusually long for rodents, averaging 59 to 72 days. This extended gestation results in well-developed pups that, unlike many other mammals, are born with fur, teeth, and open eyes. Litters typically consist of two to four pups but can range from one to eight. Guinea pigs do not build nests; instead, they give birth in secluded areas of their habitat. Maternal care is significant during the first few weeks, although pups can eat solid food almost immediately, they still nurse for around three weeks.

Care Requirements

Providing optimal care for guinea pigs involves understanding their social nature and specific needs. They thrive in spacious enclosures that allow for exercise and exploration, with a minimum recommended size of 7.5 square feet (0.7 square meters) for one or two guinea pigs. Bedding should be soft, absorbent, and dust-free; options include paper-based products or aspen shavings, but cedar and pine shavings should be avoided due to harmful oils.

Guinea pigs require a diet high in fiber to maintain healthy digestion. Unlimited access to grass hay, such as timothy or orchard grass, is essential. Fresh vegetables rich in vitamin C are crucial, as guinea pigs cannot synthesize this vitamin on their own. Foods like bell peppers, kale, and parsley are excellent choices. High-quality guinea pig pellets fortified with vitamin C can supplement their diet but should not replace fresh hay and vegetables.

Social interaction is vital for their well-being. Guinea pigs are herd animals and are happiest when kept in pairs or small groups of the same sex to prevent unwanted breeding. Regular gentle handling helps build trust and can be a source of enjoyment for both the guinea pig and the owner. Enrichment activities, such as tunnels, chew toys, and hiding places, keep them mentally stimulated.

Handling and Temperament

Known for their gentle and friendly nature, guinea pigs make wonderful companions for people of all ages. They communicate through a series of vocalizations—whistles, purrs, and chirps—that express excitement, contentment, or curiosity. When handling a guinea pig, it's important to support their entire body, using one hand under the chest and the other under the hindquarters. Sudden movements or loud noises can startle them, so calm and quiet interaction is best. With patience, guinea pigs often enjoy lap time and gentle petting, and they can become quite affectionate with their human companions.

Size and Growth

Did You Know?

Fun Facts

Vocal Communicators: Guinea pigs have a rich vocabulary of sounds. The “wheek-wheek” is a loud call used to express excitement, especially when they anticipate feeding.
Popcorning: When happy, guinea pigs exhibit a behavior known as “popcorning,” where they jump straight up in the air repeatedly, much like popcorn popping.
360-Degree Vision: Their eye placement allows them to see nearly all around them, an adaptation for spotting predators.
Dental Marvels: Guinea pigs’ teeth grow continuously throughout their lives, which is why chewing on hay and safe toys is essential to prevent overgrowth.
Not Nocturnal: Unlike many rodents, guinea pigs are neither nocturnal nor diurnal. They have short periods of activity interspersed with rest throughout the day and night.
Historical Companions: They’ve been domesticated longer than cats. Guinea pigs were first domesticated around 5,000 B.C.
No Relation to Pigs: Despite their name, they are more closely related to chinchillas and porcupines than to pigs.