Has your kid ever asked you for a guinea pig? These small animals might seem really difficult to care for, but if you know what you are doing, you might be able to grant your child’s wish – to have a guinea pig at home as a pet. Guinea pigs, sometimes called ‘cavies’ are fun and easy to maintain pets. This is why more and more people are getting them for pets.
Setting Up A Guinea Pig Home
To make sure that your guinea pig survives and lives a happy life under your care, you need to know the essentials. Use these simple tips to make life with a guinea pig so much easier for you:
- Prepare the Right Cage. Guinea pigs need a cage. At first, they would be small if you got them when they were still babies. But sooner or later, they would grow and surprisingly, a bit larger. The cages sold for small animals might not be fit for your matured guinea pig. The cage should be a minimum of 7.5 square feet. If you are getting two guinea pigs, the cage should be at least 10.5 square feet to make it comfortable for both of them. Also, choose a cage with a wire bottom to make cleaning easier.
- Needed Cage Supplies. Your guinea pig would need beddings, a food dish, a water bottle, and also, toys. Avoid using pine or cedar shavings because they can be toxic for guinea pigs. Instead, opt for Timothy hay because this is the best bedding for them since it is part of their diet. All of these are now available at pet supplies in Australia.
- Prepare A Room. Your guinea pigs would need to be out of their cages from time to time. Choose a room with floors that is easy to clean. This is why you need to have at least one room where they can roam freely and stretch their legs. Before you release them, ensure that there are no wires or cables that they can chew on or can get them electrocuted. Also, remove any pets from the room. Close all the doors and windows to prevent the guinea pigs from escaping.
How To Feed A Guinea Pig
Like other pets, guinea pigs also have their own special diet. You need to buy them commercial guinea pig food. Feed them about ⅛ of a cup a day. As they grow, they would need to gnaw on something. So make sure that you always have enough timothy hay in their cages. Also, your guinea pig will also need fresh vegetables. Any dark leafy greens will do. A cup of this per day is enough for the nutrients that they need.
You can also feed them carrots or sweet potatoes just a couple of times in a week. Your guinea pig will also need constant access to drinking water. Clean their water bottles if necessary.
With good care and love, your guinea pig can live for 4 to 8 years. This is why if you have gotten a baby guinea pig, they can be your child’s pet because they can live for a long time and grow with your children.