Guinea pigs, also known as cavies, make wonderful pets for families and individuals alike. They are gentle, sociable, and relatively low-maintenance, making them a perfect choice for beginners. Whether you’re new to guinea pigs or simply looking to ensure you’re providing the best care possible, this guide will cover everything you need to know. From choosing the right guinea pig to setting up their home and feeding them the best diet, this comprehensive guide will help you get started on the right foot.

Guinea pigs are highly social animals and are happiest when they have a companion. It’s highly recommended to adopt them in pairs or groups. A single guinea pig can become lonely and stressed without another guinea pig for company, which can lead to behavioural problems or health issues. If you decide to keep one guinea pig, consider getting a same-sex pair or neutering them to avoid any unintended breeding.

While it’s tempting to buy a guinea pig from a pet store, we encourage adopting from animal shelters or rescue organisations. Guinea pigs in shelters are often looking for loving homes and can make wonderful pets. When purchasing from any source, make sure to look for healthy guinea pigs—bright eyes, clean ears, and a shiny coat are all signs of a well cared for pet.

There are many different guinea pig breeds, each with unique traits and care needs. Here are a few popular ones:

• Abyssinian: Known for their distinctive rosettes of fur, Abyssinians are active and playful.
• Peruvian: These long-haired guinea pigs require regular grooming but are calm and friendly.
• American: One of the most common breeds, American guinea pigs are easygoing and require minimal grooming.

Guinea pigs need plenty of space to roam. For one guinea pig, the minimum recommended cage size is 7.5 square feet, while two guinea pigs need at least 10.5 square feet. C&C (Cubes and Coroplast) cages are a popular and customisable option, allowing you to create a spacious and easy-to-clean home for your pets.

Choosing the right bedding is essential for your guinea pig’s health and comfort:

• Fleece Liners: A washable and reusable option that helps control odour.
• Paper Bedding: Soft, absorbent, and gentle on guinea pigs’ delicate feet.
• Wood Shavings: Pine and cedar shavings can be harmful due to aromatic oils, so it’s best to avoid these.

Always check that your bedding is safe and free from harmful chemicals or dust.

Essential accessories for your guinea pig’s cage include:

• Hideouts or Shelters: Guinea pigs need a safe place to sleep and relax, such as a simple cardboard box or a wooden hideout.
• Tunnels: This encourages exercise and play while adding enrichment to their space.
• Water Bottles and Food Dishes: Make sure to provide a steady supply of fresh water and a sturdy food dish.

Place the cage in a quiet, low-traffic area of the home, away from direct sunlight and drafts. Guinea pigs are sensitive to temperature changes and loud noises.

A balanced diet is crucial to a guinea pig’s health. Here’s what to feed them:

• Hay: Hay should make up about 80% of their diet, with Timothy hay being the most popular choice. It helps with digestion and prevents obesity.
• Pellets: Look for plain, fortified pellets without seeds or coloured bits. Avoid sugary mixes that contain dried fruit or nuts.
• Fresh Vegetables: Guinea pigs love fresh veggies like bell peppers, leafy greens (e.g., romaine lettuce, kale), and carrots. Offer them daily but in moderation.

Some foods can be harmful or toxic to guinea pigs, including:

• Chocolate
• Onions and garlic
• Iceberg lettuce

Make sure to keep these out of their diet.

Fresh water should always be available. Ensure that your guinea pig has access to clean, filtered water through a water bottle or bowl, which should be changed daily.