Tri-County Humane Society: Pet Tip - A Good Pig is a Guinea Pig

January 8, 2009

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Pet Tip: A Good Pig is a Guinea Pig

A Good Pig is a Guinea Pig

Guinea pigs can be a great pet addition to any family. Being larger than other pocket pets, Guinea pigs are usually a good match for small children. They are daytime critters, slower moving than hamsters or gerbils, and generally have a happy disposition, rarely biting.

Guinea pigs are social, so having a same sex pair is often recommended. You do not need littermates, but getting two young pups works better than trying to match two adult sows (females) or boars (males).

Due to their larger size, a wire cage with a solid bottom (2'L x 2'W x 14"H) is necessary to keep one or two pigs comfortable. Guinea pigs have small feet with no bottom padding, therefore, wire bottom cages are painful and if their feet fall through, feet and legs can break if they panic while trying to free themselves. Aquariums offer little-to-no airflow causing smell and ammonia to build up, which can lead to respiratory problems.

A good diet is important to our pig friends. Unlimited Timothy hay and controlled portions of Guinea pig pellets are the basics. No seeds or dried fruits mixed in the food - these have been known to cause liver and kidney damage. Vitamin C is extremely important and is usually given by drops in the water. If you are ambitious, fresh fruits and veggies daily can supplement the needed vitamin C besides being a great treat.

Nail clipping every two weeks and an occasional bath aid in keeping pigs happy and healthy. With proper care, your pig friends can be a member of your family 5 to 7 years or more. Contact the shelter if you would like more information on Guinea pigs or if you would like to be on our wish list to adopt one.

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