Guinea Pig Care
Everything you need to know about caring for a pet guinea pig. From Vitamin C requirements and hay-based diets to weekly weigh-ins, herd bonding, and recognizing respiratory infections early, this guide covers what every guinea pig owner needs to understand.
Diet & Nutrition
Hay (80%): Unlimited timothy hay. Essential for digestion and dental wear.
Vegetables (15%): 1 cup fresh veggies per pig daily. Focus on bell peppers, romaine, cilantro.
Pellets (5%): 1-2 tablespoons plain timothy-based pellets fortified with Vitamin C.
Water: Fresh water always available via bowl or bottle.
Vitamin C
Why it matters: Guinea pigs cannot produce their own Vitamin C. Deficiency causes scurvy.
Daily requirement: 10-30mg per day through diet.
Best sources: Red and yellow bell peppers, parsley, kale, broccoli.
No water drops: Vitamin C degrades rapidly in water. Supplement through food.
Foods to Avoid
Iceberg lettuce: Low nutrition, causes diarrhea. Use romaine instead.
Toxic foods: Onions, garlic, potatoes, rhubarb, chocolate, seeds, nuts.
Muesli mixes: Avoid pellet mixes with seeds, dried corn, or colored bits.
Housing & Environment
Cage size: Minimum 7.5 sq ft for one, 10.5 sq ft for two. C&C cages recommended.
Bedding: Fleece liners or paper-based bedding. Never cedar or pine shavings.
Temperature: 65-75°F. Sensitive to heat.
Social needs: Keep at least two together. Same-sex pairs recommended.
Grooming & Maintenance
Nail trimming: Every 2-4 weeks. Nails curl into foot pads if neglected.
Brushing: Occasional for short-haired breeds. Regular for long-haired breeds.
Grease gland: Clean periodically near base of spine.
Health & Wellness
Vet care: Annual checkups with exotic vet. Guinea pigs hide illness well.
URIs: Sneezing, eye/nose discharge, labored breathing. Can become pneumonia fast.
Weight monitoring: Weigh weekly. A 50g+ drop warrants vet attention.
Behavior & Bonding
Wheeking: Excited squealing when they hear food bags.
Popcorning: Sudden jumps and kicks, a sign of joy.
Purring: Low pitch = contentment, high pitch = annoyance.
Handling
Picking up: Support both chest and hindquarters. Spines are fragile.
Lap time: Start with 10-15 minutes. Offer veggies to build positive associations.
Common Surprises for New Owners
Volume: Wheeking can be surprisingly loud, especially around mealtimes.
Poop quantity: Lots of droppings is normal. Changes indicate health issues.
Bonding takes time: Patience and gentle handling build trust.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do guinea pigs eat?
80% timothy hay, 15% fresh vegetables, 5% pellets fortified with Vitamin C.
Do guinea pigs need Vitamin C?
Yes. They cannot produce their own. 10-30mg daily through diet.
Can guinea pigs live alone?
They are herd animals and benefit from living in pairs or small groups.
What are signs of a respiratory infection?
Sneezing, eye/nose discharge, labored breathing, lethargy. See a vet promptly.
What size cage does a guinea pig need?
Minimum 7.5 sq ft for one, 10.5 sq ft for two.
How long do guinea pigs live?
5-7 years on average with proper care.