Guinea pigs are fun little creatures who will give you lots of love!

Proper housing, medical care, and diet will ensure that your guinea pig lives many long years. Provide a home that will give your guinea pig enough room to exercise, and one that can be easily cleaned. Make sure that there is some solid flooring to prevent foot disease.

A guinea pig diet should consist mostly of long stem Timothy hay, with only about 1/4 to 1/2 cup of alfalfa pellets daily. Fresh greens and veggies can also be offered. Stay clear of spinach and Swiss chard. Never give your guinea pig fatty foods, or chocolate.

Guinea pigs require daily supplementation of Vitamin C. The best way to supply this is by a 1/4 of a fresh orange or green bell pepper daily. Supplements are sold to go into the water, but it is questionable whether the vitamin remains stable, and the water should be changed daily. A 50mg dose of a vitamin C tablet can be crushed and placed in the food.

Don’t place your guinea pig in a drafty area and keep indoors.

Annual exams are important to ensure good health. Guinea pigs are prone to parasites, tumors, and dental disease. A guinea pig can be neutered and that may help to prevent some reproductive tumors. Raintree Animal Hospital has a special interest in guinea pig neutering.

Some people consider breeding guinea pigs, but care should be taken as they have narrow pelvises and can have birthing complications. Call our office today to schedule a complete health exam for your furry friend!

Raintree Animal Hospital treats reptiles. We would be more than happy to see you and your pet for a thorough consultation regarding husbandry, diet, health, and medical conditions or concerns. Please call us at 970-482-1987 to schedule an appointment.

Raintree Animal Hospital treats reptiles. We would be more than happy to see you and your pet for a thorough consultation regarding husbandry, diet, health, and medical conditions or concerns.