There are in fact 13 breeds of cavy. Each has its own distinct personality and appearance. Some of the popular breeds are the following:

The English Self

Their coat is short and silky.  They have broad head with a ‘Roman Nose’ and a good width between the eyes. Their face is short with large drooping ears and high shoulders.

There are ten different colors of English Self guinea pig, and the most striking and popular is the Self Black.

They are the most seen breeds and probably the most popular. They are good with children as long as they are handled carefully.

The Abyssinian

Abyssinian cavies have distinctive appearance. Their coat is made up of rosettes or multiple swirls of hair. The rosettes should have deep pin-point centers and should have no suggestion of being ‘double centered. They have quite dense and coarse hair that feels harsh when touched. Ideally, Abyssinian Cavies must have a minimum of eight rosettes in a symmetrical pattern.

The Peruvian

Their coat is smooth and straight. The hair grows to several inches in length that lies towards its head. Therefore, as the hair grows, it falls over the face and sides with a parting down in the middle of the back. The fringe over the face is known as the ‘frontal’ and should be thick, plentiful and the same length as the hair over the rest of the body.

The soft and dense coat of this breed grows continually and hard to keep clean unless the hair is regularly trimmed. For show purposes, wraps can be used to prevent the hair from getting soiled or tangled.

The Silkie

This breed is also known as, the Sheltie. They have very silky long coat. But unlike the Peruvian, the soft coat of Silkie grows backwards from the head, and does not naturally part along the back.

The Teddy

This breed is growing even more popular because of its unique coat of fur. It has dense and very short coat. The hair all over its body stands erect and is kinked— it looks like a wire-haired breed of dog! Surprisingly, it has a soft fur. It’s interesting because the combination of its fur, roman nose and round body really resembles a teddy bear! This Teddy is a great pet. It has very gentle and docile attitude towards people, particularly its owner. It is the most suitable guinea pig for children as well.

Don’t be tempted to rush into acquiring a stock. Every cavy has its own appearance and personality. It is best to browse around the different varieties before deciding on what breed is perfect for you.  Just take your time and choose wisely.

When you buy your cavy, know what food it used to eat. Then you can change its diet gradually without upsetting your pet’s tummy.  Two meals each day are sufficient. Feed your cavies at a regular schedule because they are creatures of habit and relatively dislike change.

Guinea pigs are herbivores. They also require high fiber diet. Grass as sole source of fiber should be available at all times.

Guinea pigs, like human beings, need Vitamin C in food. Otherwise, they will suffer from potentially fatal scurvy since they do not synthesize Vitamin C in their bodies. Fresh greens of the highest quality are vitally important to them. You may also give fruits with small amounts of Vitamin C like citrus, strawberries and kiwi fruit.

There are five essentials in your pet’s diet:  Greens, Root vegetables, Hay, Guinea pig mix or pellets, and water.

Vegetables include broccoli, fresh cauliflower leaves, carrot tops, zucchini, spinach leaves, dark-leafed lettuce varieties, corn, fresh uncooked peas, stringed beans and husks. While herbs include basil, mint, parsley and dandelion. It is good to offer 2 or 3 variety of greens a day. Remember, any changes should be done slowly to avoid gastric upset. Fresh grass and dandelion leaves are valuable food source as long as they are free of pesticides or other harmful chemicals.

Of all root vegetables, carrots are the easiest to find. They are rich in vitamins and high in food value. Beet root is suggested but must be chopped up. They also enjoy apple and cucumber as treats.

Cavies love fresh hay and will not thrive without it! It is an excellent feeding supplement and provides soft warm layer of bedding too. Hay encourages long period of chewing for your cavies. It keeps their teeth strong since their teeth grow throughout their life. 

Guinea pig pellets can be offered as well. But it is recommended to feed them in small amounts as treat, and not as sole diet. Most commercial pellets are not healthy because of too high fat content or high in carbohydrates but low in fiber. Never feed your precious guinea pigs on rabbit pellets!

Most cavies drink water regularly but a few will not even touch it. Especially when they feast on a great deal of green stuff!  It is best to buy water bottle fitted with a metal drinking tubes since it regulates the flow of water. Your pet can foul open pots of water as they run around.

There are foods that you should not feed your cavies like cereals, grains, seeds, nuts, onion, avocado, wild mushrooms, biscuits, sugar and chocolates. Potato leaves, buttercup, bindweed and foxglove are poisonous.

Guinea pigs are slobs when it comes to hygiene. They even soil their bedding with food and water. So it is best that containers are suspended above the ground.  Provide your pet with heavy food and water containers that cannot be overturned. Remember also to clean out their containers daily.

Guinea pigs surely love to burrow around in a cluster of comfortable beddings. They tend to habitually chew on this material. It is essential, therefore, to choose litter that is not risky for your pet. Don’t worry! You have several options when it comes to choosing an ideal bedding or litter for your guinea pigs.

Newspaper/Shredded Newspaper

You can use several layers to cover the base of the cage. It is absorbent, economical and easy to clean.  It is not time-consuming particularly if you have several cages to clean out. But it is recommended to add an additional layer such as Hay or Aspen Bark.

Kiln-Dried Pine

It is quite inexpensive but always check the quality. If there are bits of wood, remove them. Such could injure your guinea pig’s feet.  Kiln-Dried Pine is recommended for well ventilated cages because it contains a pine-like odor substance called Phenols. You should air out some residual phenols first. Covering the pine with layers of hay can further reduce any phenols from evaporating. Do not use air-dried pines.

Caution: Do not use Cedar wood shavings. These contain compounds, such as aromatic oils, that are proven toxic to your guinea pigs. These can also cause liver damage when inhaled. Never use Sawdust because it is too fine. Your guinea pigs may inhale the particles as they enjoy foraging the ground for food. Always put your guinea pigs outside the cage when changing their bedding.

Hay

Hay makes a comfortable bed and provides warmth. They enjoy running around their cage because of its soft texture. But it should be dry and fresh!

Aspen Bark

It is a hardwood shaving that does not contain Phenols. It does not contain aromatic oils that may be linked to certain pet health problems.

Wood Pellets

Wood pellets tend to last longer than paper-based beddings and pine shavings. But make sure you are buying 100% wood pellets. Make certain they are dry as this material breaks down into sawdust when wet. It is recommended to cover wood pellets with Aspen shavings because they are very hard. Guinea Pigs cannot run well on pure wood pellets.

Wood Pulp Fiber

This soft and absorbent fiber is not made of pine or cedar. It is not-irritating and recommended for pets suffering from respiratory allergies.

Commercial Beds

You must also provide a bed that is not likely to soil. There are commercial beds made of variety of materials, the softest and the most luxurious is with lamb’s wool!

Choosing a bed for your guinea pig depends on your personal preference. If your guinea pig’s cage has plastic-slatted floor or a nest box, a bed is not necessary.

Keep living area clean at all times. The buildup of ammonia is hard on the respiratory system of your pet. It is objectionable to you as pet owner as well. Try the different bedding materials and determine what works best. You can layer various beddings too.

Type of Toys that are best for your Guinea Pig

The toys that will make your guinea pig pet the happiest are the simple things that you can see and find around your house. These toys which your guinea pig will like are those that he could explore or something he could chew on.  Anything that would involve fun for the little guinea pig is what he would enjoy the most.

Bear in mind also that it is essential that you provide your guinea pig with something to chew on. Aside from the fact that he loves doing it a guinea pig’s teeth never stops from growing so, it is good for him to have something chew on to control the growth process.  You may provide your guinea pig with simple things such as a toilet paper roll or a paper towel roll and plain cardboard items like boxes and tubes.  He can chew these items on and if your guinea pig is still small he can climb into these things and play.

Guinea pigs love places where they can hide.  So, you can use a small cardboard box where you will make pretend doors on the sides.  In this way you will provide your pet with something to chew on as well as a place to hide in. 

Tunnels are another toy that will give your guinea pig joy and fun.  You can make this toy out of PVC pipe and some fittings.  You can also come up with all sorts of different shapes to provide your pet with many ways in which to explore.  It is also a good idea to transfer their toys from one place to another from time to time as they enjoy running and hunting around for them.  

Toys are also good for your pet to keep his nails worn down.  You may place small bricks around which he may climb onto. In this way, you stop the growth process of the nails. So, you don’t have to trim them from time to time. 

It is important also that you provide your pet out of the cage time to keep him active and energetic.  However every time you do this try to integrate exercise and fun. Make sure that he is in a place with his favorite toys around him.    

In raising a happy, active and healthy guinea pig make sure you provide him with plenty of exercise, fun and time with you to interact.  You don’t really have to spend a lot of money on guinea pig toys. Just be creative and try to explore on new things that will give your pet fun and entertainment.

In adopting guinea pig pets it is better that you start looking from a rescue house or an organization. A rescue house does not operate like a pet shop where anybody can just give some cash and take home any guinea pig they like.  While it is more convenient to buy from a nearest pet shop or your favorite pet shop buying from a rescue house serves as an act of charity for these little creatures by providing them a new home. Also, in the rescue houses potential owners are carefully screened to make sure that the guinea pigs are will be provided with proper, safe, loving and permanent new home with somebody who can spend time, effort and money needed to keep the animals healthy and happy.

When you are searching to adopt guinea pigs requesting for photos could be helpful. A large number of irresponsible breeding make many animals end up in rescues where they are cared for until they find a new home.

If you want to take a guinea pig from a rescue house you should be able to provide the animal adequate shelter and an outdoor run. Be sure also that they have an opportunity to run freely outside the cage.

Guinea pigs are sociable animals, hence it is important that you provide your guinea pig with a company.  Guinea pigs make better pets when they have company. Thus, consider adopting two.  This will make your guinea pigs happier. In feeding, you have to provide them with a variety of fresh foods and make sure that you change water regularly.

In terms of housing you have to clean the cage 2-3 times a week. Moreover, you have to   groom and bathe your adopted guinea pigs.  Also, you have to ensure people in a rescue organization that your guinea pigs will receive prompt medical care from a competent veterinarian. It is also very important that you have to spend plenty of time with your pets every day because these animals need lots of love and cuddles. 

Before you start going to one of your local pet stores to buy a guinea pig why not check around in your place for the possibility of adopting your guinea pig.  It is a worthwhile alternative to a pet shop. Your guinea pig pet will be glad you did.

In bathing your guinea pig try to only do it when it is necessary because most guinea pigs do not like being wet. To maintain good guinea pig health, some breeds will require more bathing than others because of their long hair. However try to keep them from being immersed in water for it can be stressful for guinea pigs. In terms of shelter make sure that their housing is free from dust and dirt and clean of any waste food, urine or feces. Also, disinfect the cage every 10 days or so. Regular monitoring of the cleanliness of the cage and the immediate area where your guinea pigs are housed will surely assist in the longevity of their lifespan.

As a part also of your guinea pig health regime, make sure that you examine them every other day for any signs of injury. Guinea pigs are more prone to injury than other pets.

Runny noses are something to be aware of with your guinea pigs. This could be an allergic reaction to their bedding or housing material. Changes in environment can give them irritation. You need to change the bedding, and search where or how the irritation might have come from. Then avoid that area in the future.

Coughing or wheezing can be very hazardous to your guinea pig or even fatal. If you notice this in your guinea pig you should get your pet to your local vet immediately.

Watery eyes are something also to look out for in maintaining good guinea pig health. Dust, dirt, pollen and other particles may affect the eyes causing them to have teary eyes.  To remedy this go to your pet store and ask for liquid drops to put into the eyes. If this is not remedied see your vet as soon as possible.

Hair loss will occur when your guinea pig has been cut or injured.  This may result to hair fall out around the wound.  If your guinea pig is suffering from extreme hair loss due to ringworm, fleas, or other parasitic infestation, take him to the vet immediately.

Finally, good guinea pig health relies on a well balanced diet and lots of fiber. Here, avoid giving your guinea pig too many wet foods because it could be the cause of diarrhea. If this occurs, try to increase the amount of hay, pellets, dried food, and Vitamin C.  Reduce the intake of fruit and vegetables. If your guinea pig is releasing red or pink urine, take him to the vet as soon as possible. This might be due to blood being discharged into the urinary tract which can be fatal.

With the right food and care, your guinea pig will certainly live a long and healthy life.

Guinea pigs, also known as cavies, are the very animals that belong to the rodent family and yes, they do not belong to the same family as of the real pigs. Neither are they dirty animals which would really make the name guinea pig sound really hard to take care of. In fact, guinea pigs are one of the self cleaning pets known in this world. Despite this fact, they still need grooming.

Guinea pig grooming is at times difficult, but in time, you will enjoy it and even make it as a regular activity for the day. However, it is not suggested that you give it a bath every day. Grooming can range from simple bath taking to the extravagant fur cut. To be able to get the best way to groom your guinea pig, you need to go through these three simple tips on Guinea Pig Grooming.

Nails should not fail

Guinea pigs are at times taken out of their cage and play with their owners. One of the most common things that people hate about guinea pigs are the scratches due to the cavies’ sharp nails. Some are afraid to cut its nails because of the fact that blood vessels run through a part of the nail.

The best way to avoid this is to not cut your guinea pigs’ nails too short. Avoid cutting through the pink area that is extending from the bone. Since some of your guinea pigs have dark nails, this area will no longer be visible. That is why the best thing you can do is to cut regularly your cavies’ nails. However, it is best if you do not forget to cut this regularly because in just a matter of time, its nails will be much longer than any other guinea pig.

The teeth is not a myth

Since rodents have this ability of growing teeth constantly, guinea pigs have it too. It will be a very painful situation if your guinea pigs have teeth that are too long because it will definitely cause them discomfort especially while eating. Cutting them off, is a very big no-no for the reason that only an experienced veterinarian should be able to do it. One thing you can do about this is to give your guinea pigs hard objects to chew on for it to maintain the shortness of their teeth in a natural way.

Bathing the adorable living thing

As said earlier, guinea pig grooming does not necessarily mean that you are going to give your guinea pig a bath every day. Your cavy will need to take a bath especially when they have something dirty on them. To do this, you may fill a dish with warm water, but remember to limit the water level only up to your pet’s head. While giving your cavy a bath, you need to be there at all times. You can also lightly scrub the fur and head until it is clean by using only gentle baby shampoos. Shampoos that have special medications are encouraged only when prescribed by the veterinarian. Once finished, you must keep your guinea pig warm by wrapping it in a towel until dry.

Simple as it may seem, but guinea pig grooming will surely be a very serious task for you to keep your cavy as healthy as possible. So go on and try these tips and get your cavies groomed.

Since guinea pigs, also known as cavies are the very pets that kids and even adults are very fond of these days; guinea pig breeding has also become the trend of the new generation. Guinea Pig Breeding is a very enjoyable hobby where you can be hooked instantly. Not to mention the fact that you can earn money through it. The reason why people nowadays are pursuing this kind of pastime is because it gives them fun tasks while earning.

Fun as it may seem, this hobby is not that as easy as it sounds since this is also a serious thing especially for your guinea pigs. There are a lot of factors that are needed to be considered before proceeding to your guinea pig’s breeding season. To be familiar with these factors, read on and find out the three ways to breed guinea pigs.

Health is Wealth

Indeed, health is wealth. It is very important to make sure that your male and female guinea pigs are of the best health that they can be if you are planning to mate them. A simple disease from any of your male and female cavies will make your breeding process shaky since you will not be able to produce the healthiest pups (baby guinea pigs). It is vital to remember that to breed guinea pigs, your male and female guinea pigs are of the healthiest state so that it can both take care of the New Guinea pigs.

Six months or nothing

This is a very significant part of your breeding process. You need to make sure that you know your female cavies’ age. This is because the female guinea pig is recommended to be bred even before six months to avoid the possibility that after 6 months, her pelvic bones fuse together. Its not that they can not get pregnant, but it would really be disastrous especially if we are not able to bring the pups out into the world.

The introduction

It is very likely that you need to introduce your male and female guinea pigs. It is very notable that when breeding your guinea pigs, they will live together, in the same cage; with the same water; and the same food intake. This is why you need to have a very large cage and even larger if you have more than three breeding guinea pigs. Take care of these guinea pigs just as the way you treat your own. You may also want to watch over it to make sure that they will not fight with each other.

Some of these may only be too simple, but all of these will pint you to the right direction of how to breed guinea pigs.

Guinea pigs are such adorable animals. In fact, a guinea pig, also known as a cavy, is one of the most commonly sought after pets these days. There are a variety of breeds and kinds of guinea pigs that you can choose from. While in search of the right guinea pig to buy, you will have to consider a lot of things.

First and foremost, you have to decide if you will buy guinea pig for pet show purposes or just because you want a pet. If you decide to buy a guinea pig for the latter reason, it is not really necessary to consider the line of family or the breed of the cavy. What you really need to check is the healthiness of your pet or if it is fit for you to take home. This is why you need to read through these three simple tips on how to buy the right guinea pig.

Reputation is not an illusion

When buying guinea pig, you need to find the most reputable pet shop or breeder. If you decide to buy it on a pet shop, be sure to check if they have different cages or at least the pet shops would not place too many guinea pigs on the same cage. This is a disadvantage because when too many guinea pigs are placed on the same cage it will most likely mean that your chosen guinea pig may have been infected of a disease.

Remember that a cavy can live for more than six years if its health is prioritized, which is why it is essential that you buy guinea pig that is as healthy as any cavy can be.

Its own behaviour will be its saviour

It is important that you observe their behaviours. One thing to note is that guinea pigs usually like to sleep but they are not at all times asleep. When you wake them up, they regularly rush to the corners or squeak. Also, while they run around, try to observe your cavy is limping, if so, tit is highly suggested that you pick another. In addition, observe if your guinea pig runs in a straight line, because it should. If it is just running in circles, or if it often veers to the side, it would be an indication that there is something wrong with your cavy.

Inspection for early detection

While in the process of choosing which guinea pig to buy, try to hold the cavy and inspect all visible parts of your pet. Check your guinea pig’s hairs are sticking together because of their own wastes. Bear in mind that guinea pigs are one of those animals that are self cleaning. That is why it would be a negative sign because it would indicate that your cavy may be ill. This is because when guinea pigs are ill, they tend to lie or roll on its wastes not because they want to, but because they are too weak to find some other spot to roll or lie on.

These are all just simple ways you can check if you are buying the right cavy. So, go on buy guinea pig and take care of it.