Guinea Pigs: Small Pet, Behavior, Diet, Breeders And Guinea Pig Adoption

Guinea pigs, commonly known as cavies, are a rodent species belonging to the Caviidae family. Guinea pigs are South American natives, approximately 8-10 inches long and weigh 2-3 pounds, on average. Their typical life span is 4-5 years. Although all guinea pigs have a round, fleshy body and no visible tail, there are a variety of breeds existing with various color patterns and coat types. The three most common guinea pig breeds are: American with short smooth fur, Abyssinian with short tuft fur, and Peruvian with long fur.

Guinea pigs are social animals, and they love to live in small groups. In their natural habitat, they do not build nests and usually seek shelter in the nests of other animals. Guinea pigs were popular laboratory animals until the 20th century; they were widely used to standardize antiviral agents and vaccines and to conduct antibodies studies.

Due to their docile nature, guinea pigs are considered excellent family pets. These small pets are most popular in Western societies. Characteristically genial and loving, they rarely bite or scratch. Large homemade cages are ideal for their housing. Fresh, clean cages with plenty of bedding and some treats such as nest box and toys will keep the pet guinea pigs happy.

The natural diet of guinea pigs is grass. As they are unable to synthesize their own vitamin C, their diet must contain this essential nutrient. The healthy guinea pig diet must include calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, hydrogen ions, potassium, and sufficient amounts of vitamin E and A. Fresh vegetables and fruits along with fresh guinea pig pellets will be perfect food for these small pets. Besides such, they require plenty of fresh, hygienic water.

Specific behavior patterns and characteristic sounds are used by guinea pigs to communicate with each other and express their emotions. When they are excited, they run around and jump in the air. This action is called popcorning. Other common behaviors are barbering, freezing, licking, sniffing, rumbling, and chattering. They are known for squeaking with real pleasure when they see their favorite person. Guinea pigs respond positively to routines. Sudden changes in food, water, and bedding will make them stressed and affect their behavior. In such instances, they might become irritable, aggressive, or less active.

Guinea pigs can be obtained from pet stores, guinea pig breeders, or are available through adoption from rescue homes. Breeders are the best option for specific types of guinea pigs. The advantage of buying from a breeder is that a good breeder can provide pure bred, healthy guinea pigs of good size and temperament. They regularly handle young guinea pigs and are confident about the breed show standard. Many private rescue homes and shelters take abandoned or homeless guinea pigs and place them in a healthy and happy environment. Guinea pig pairs are also available for adoption from such shelters. When adopting from a rescue home, the potential owners have to complete a series of formalities which ensures the correct placement and caring of guinea pigs with the new owners. Before buying or adopting, check the overall fitness of the guinea pigs to ensure a long, happy, and healthy life with the new pet.


Sources:
McLeod, Lianne. "Guinea Pigs as Pets." About.com. 18 Jan. 2008. http://exoticpets.about.com/cs/guineapigs/a/Gpsasp ets.htm

"Guinea Pig Care." ASPCA. 2008. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. 18 Jan. 2008. http://www.aspca.org/site/PageServer?pagename=pets _guineapigcare

"Guinea Pig." Wikipedia – The Free Encyclopedia. 18 Jan. 2008. 18 Jan. 2008. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guinea_pig

"Guinea Pig Behaviour." Jackie's Guinea Piggies.16 Jan. 2008. 18 Jan. 2008. http://jackiesguineapiggies.com/guineapigbehaviour .html