GUINEA PIG CARE

Physiologic
Life Span: 4-8 years (average 5 yrs in home)
Adult male body weight: 900-1200 grams
Adult female body weight: 750-900 grams
Food Consumption: 6 grams/100 grams/day
Water Consumption: 10 mL/10 grams/day

Diet

• Commercial guinea pig feed with 20% crude protein and 16% fiber is recommended (Ex: Mazuri Guinea Peg®, Purina Guinea Pig Chow Code 5025®, Wayne Guinea Pig Diet®).
• Guinea Pigs require a dietary source of supplemental vitamin C. Add 50 mg/cup (8oz.) drinking water daily and include one or more high vitamin C-containing foods daily: ¼ orange or small handful cabbage or kale.
• Limit "treats" to no more than 1-2 Tbsp/24-period; timothy hay, alfalfa cubes, small amounts green vegetables, carrot tops, apple.
• Guinea pigs have sensitive intestinal tracts; sudden alterations in diet (including change in food brand) may result in serious intestinal upset and anorexia.
  

• Feed bowls should be cleaned regularly as a guinea pig may sit in them to defecate.
• Sipper tubes should be thoroughly cleaned daily (use large pipe cleaner), and water changed daily.

Housing

• Enclosure should be made of wire (mesh size: 1.2 x 3.8cm) with minimal dimensions of 12" x 12" x 12" per adult.
  
• Breeders need twice the floor space.
  
• Bedding should be provided in abundance: hardwood shavings, composite recycled paper materials, pellets, shredded paper.
  
• Bedding must be changed frequently to prevent fecal material and urine moisture build up.
  Hiding box is appreciated for sleeping or retreat if startled.
  
• Do not house guinea pigs with other animals (rabbits, cats, dogs- Bordatella bacteria carriers) as this may cause serious disease in guinea pigs.
  
• Room temperature range 55-70ºF – above 80-85ºF may cause heat stroke.

General

• Guinea Pigs make good pets. They are non-aggressive and they rarely bite or scratch
• Remember to monitor weight and check for abnormalities monthly. Teeth may require trimming or filing as they may overgrow.

Information taken from The Exotic Companion Medicine Handbook For Veterinarians

The Animal Health Clinic recommends annual wellness visits for all guinea pigs. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us at: 701-237-9310