Everything to Consider Before Buying a Guinea Pig

MD Mustakim Jabir

When considering a guinea pig as a pet, it’s essential to think about your lifestyle and commitment level. Guinea pigs are social creatures that need consistent care and interaction. If you’re looking for a pet that’s affectionate, relatively quiet, and easy to handle, a guinea pig might just be the perfect companion. However, they require time, space, and proper attention.

Will a Guinea Pig Enjoy Spending Time with You?

Guinea pigs thrive on companionship, both from other guinea pigs and humans. They love being petted, talked to, and given time out of their cage to explore. With patience and gentle handling, you can build a close bond with your guinea pig. But remember, they are prey animals by nature, so earning their trust can take time. If you’re willing to put in that effort, your guinea pig will enjoy spending time with you.

Are Guinea Pigs Good Pets for Children?

Many people wonder if guinea pigs are good pets for kids. While they can make excellent companions, they are not always the best choice for very young children. Guinea pigs are delicate, and improper handling can lead to stress or injury. Older children, who understand how to handle them gently and responsibly, can benefit from the experience of caring for these loving pets.

Guinea Pigs Are Not Low-Maintenance Pets

It’s a common misconception that guinea pigs are low-maintenance pets. In reality, they require daily care—cleaning their cages, ensuring they have fresh water, and giving them plenty of hay and food. Their enclosures also need regular cleaning, and you’ll need to keep an eye on their health. Owning a guinea pig means making a long-term commitment to their well-being.

Guinea Pigs Can Be Noisy

Surprisingly, guinea pigs can be quite vocal! They communicate using a range of sounds, from the happy “wheeking” noise when they’re excited to soft purring when they’re content. Be prepared for regular chatter, especially when they’re hungry or anticipating a treat. This noise level may be charming to some, but it’s something to keep in mind if you prefer a completely silent pet.

When Are Guinea Pigs Most Active?

Guinea pigs are crepuscular, meaning they are most active during the dawn and dusk hours. You’ll find them scurrying around and exploring their space in the early morning and late evening. If you have a busy daytime schedule, their activity periods can fit perfectly into your routine, allowing for quality playtime when you’re home.

Do Guinea Pigs Trigger Allergies?

Allergies are always a concern when getting a pet. Some people are allergic to guinea pigs, but it’s usually not the guinea pig itself causing the allergy—rather, it’s the hay they eat or the bedding material used in their cages. If you or someone in your household has allergies, it’s a good idea to spend some time around guinea pigs before bringing one home, just to be sure.

How Do Guinea Pigs Interact with Other Pets?

If you have other pets at home, introducing a guinea pig requires careful thought. Guinea pigs are small and fragile, so larger animals like cats or dogs could unintentionally harm them. If you decide to house guinea pigs with other pets, always supervise their interactions, and create a safe space where your guinea pig can relax without stress.

What Is the Lifespan of a Guinea Pig?

Guinea pigs typically live between 5 and 7 years, though some can live longer with excellent care. This makes them a longer-term commitment than many other small pets, such as hamsters or gerbils. Before getting a guinea pig, ensure you’re prepared for several years of care and companionship.

Essential Needs of a Guinea Pig

A Companion Guinea Pig

Guinea pigs are social creatures and prefer living in pairs or groups. A lone guinea pig can become lonely or depressed. If you’re considering adopting one, think about adopting two. Two guinea pigs will keep each other company and, in many cases, form deep bonds that are wonderful to witness.

A Large Space to Run

Guinea pigs need space to move around and exercise. A spacious cage with plenty of room for them to run, hide, and explore is essential. Experts recommend a minimum of 7.5 square feet for a pair of guinea pigs, though bigger is always better.

Plenty of Food

Guinea pigs are herbivores and need a diet rich in fresh vegetables, fruits, and hay. A constant supply of fresh hay is crucial for their digestion and dental health, and they also need Vitamin C in their diet since their bodies cannot produce it on their own. Leafy greens like kale, parsley, and bell peppers are excellent sources of nutrition for them.

Fresh Water Source

Always provide a fresh water supply using a sipper bottle or a heavy bowl that won’t tip over easily. Guinea pigs drink a surprising amount of water, so ensure it’s replenished daily.

Where to Get Guinea Pigs and How Much They Cost

You can find guinea pigs through pet stores, breeders, or rescue organizations. Rescue centers are great places to adopt, as many guinea pigs are looking for a second chance at a happy home. The initial cost of purchasing a guinea pig can range from $20 to $50, with ongoing expenses for food.