Guinea Pig Care Sheet

Overview

Guinea pigs are widely available in the exotic and small animal pet trade across Canada and are often marketed as beginner pets for children or new pet owners. However, like all animals, guinea pigs have specific care requirements and are not truly low-maintenance. These social, gentle rodents require spacious enclosures with solid flooring, daily cleaning, constant access to hay, and a varied diet rich in vitamin C to prevent deficiencies. They are highly social and should be housed in pairs or groups to thrive emotionally and behaviorally. Guinea pigs are typically docile and enjoy gentle handling, especially when regularly socialized from a young age. They are moderately active, vocal, and curious, often exploring their surroundings and interacting with their environment. Despite their small size, they require a significant commitment of time, space, and care. When kept properly, guinea pigs can be affectionate companions with lifespans ranging from 5 to 8 years or more.

Species averages:

Habitat Parameters

Housing recommendations

Guinea pigs need a large, clean, and open living area with solid flooring and appropriate bedding. C&C (Cubes and Coroplast) cages are recommended over commercial pet store cages due to their larger size and customizability. Provide soft, absorbent bedding such as paper-based products, fleece liners, or aspen. Avoid cedar or pine shavings, which can cause respiratory issues. Include hiding huts, tunnels, and enrichment toys for mental stimulation. Guinea pigs need plenty of space to move around and should not be housed in multi-level cages due to their poor climbing ability. Clean enclosures regularly—spot clean daily and do a full clean weekly. They are very sensitive to heat and should be kept in a cool, well-ventilated space away from direct sunlight or drafts.

Feeding

Guinea pigs are strict herbivores and require a constant supply of grass hay, fresh vegetables, and a small amount of fortified pellets. They cannot synthesize vitamin C on their own, so it must be provided through diet.

Supplementation

Vitamin C is the most critical supplement for guinea pigs and must be provided daily through fresh produce or fortified pellets. Lack of vitamin C can lead to scurvy, a serious health condition.

Special considerations

Social Needs

Guinea pigs are highly social animals and should always be kept in pairs or groups. Loneliness can lead to stress, depression, and poor health. Same-sex pairs or spayed/neutered pairs are ideal.

Handling

Guinea pigs are gentle but can be skittish. Support the chest and hind end firmly when lifting. Sit on the floor or a soft surface during handling to avoid injuries if dropped. Frequent, gentle interaction helps build trust.

Teeth and nails

Their teeth grow continuously. Provide chew toys and hay to help manage growth. Nails need trimming every 4–6 weeks to prevent overgrowth and injury.

Grooming

Long-haired breeds may require daily brushing. Short-haired breeds benefit from occasional brushing to remove loose fur and reduce shedding.

Common Health Concerns in Guinea Pigs

Below are some of the most common medical issues seen in guinea pigs. Prompt veterinary care is critical due to their tendency to hide illness.

Scurvy (Vitamin C Deficiency)

Signs: Lethargy, swollen joints, poor appetite, rough coat

Causes: Inadequate dietary vitamin C intake

Dental Disease

Signs: Drooling, weight loss, difficulty eating

Causes: Overgrown molars or incisors from poor diet

Upper Respiratory Infections (URIs)

Signs: Sneezing, nasal discharge, labored breathing

Causes: Drafts, poor ventilation, stress

Bladder Stones or Sludge

Signs: Straining to urinate, blood in urine, hunched posture

Causes: Excess calcium, poor hydration, genetics

Pododermatitis (Bumblefoot)

Signs: Swollen, red, or ulcerated footpads

Causes: Wire flooring, poor hygiene, obesity

These are all concerns we can help with via telemedicine. If you suspect your guinea pig may be showing any of the signs above, book an appointment at swiftailvet.com for expert exotic pet care from the comfort of your home.

Disclaimer

At Swiftail Vet, we strive to provide accurate, up-to-date information based on current best practices in exotic pet care. However, husbandry standards can evolve quickly. If you notice any outdated or incorrect information on this care sheet, please let us know by emailing info@swiftailvet.com or using the contact form on our website at swiftailvet.com. Your feedback helps us ensure the highest quality resources for pet owners and their companions.

Written by: Wintergreen Vet Services

March, 18, 2025