Is a Guinea Pig Right for You?

Are you thinking about getting a guinea pig, but not sure if it would be the right fit for you? Are you wondering what it takes to care for a guinea pig, and if it is something you can do? Have you see these little cuties in the pet store and thought they would be perfect for you, if you knew how to care for them? Then keep reading!

Guinea Pigs are Social

Guinea pigs are known to be herd animals in the wild. They live in groups. The same goes for domesticated ones that we have as pets. They are happier living in groups. Because of this, it is recommended that you get at least two guinea pigs. If you can, adopt a bonded pair from your local shelter. This way you will have a pair that already gets along and will live well together.

Guinea Pigs Require Time

I like to think of guinea pigs as tiny, vegetarian dogs. They require you love and attention. They require time with you. The even let you know when they are excited vocally (more about that later). It is important to know that guinea pigs require time out of their cage every day. Most people refer to this as "floor time." Some have a whole room set aside for their guinea pigs and let them roam around that room all the time. But others have to set aside time to take them out and supervise them during floor time. Whatever works for you, it is important that they get out of their cage for at least an hour a day, preferably more.

It is also important that you spend time interacting with your piggies. Cuddling and holding them socializes them. You should interact with them for at least an hour every day. Spend as much time as you can with them every day. The more the better. If you cannot spend at least an hour with them, they definitely need a cage mate. But if you do not have the time to provide these needs, a guinea pig is not for you.

Guinea Pigs Cost Money

Like all pets, guinea pigs cost money. Not only do you need to buy pellets for their food, but you also need to buy fresh veggies and fruits to give to them on a daily basis. You also have to buy fresh bedding for them. Depending on which type of bedding you choose will determine how often you have to buy it. I highly suggest fleece bedding, but more on that will come in a later post. You also need to buy the cage and supplies needed to care for your guinea pigs. If you cannot afford everything you need to care for guinea pigs, please do not get one. This is one of the main reasons people give up their piggies.

Keep in mind that if a guinea pig gets sick, you have to take them to the vet. Guinea pigs have to be seen by an exotic pet vet and they are generally more expensive. Medication and surgeries for guinea pigs are also expensive. Make sure that you can pay for a guinea pig's needs if they get sick. Hopefully it never comes to that, but you never know. Thankfully I have yet to have a sick guinea pig, but not everyone can avoid that. Be prepared to spend some money if your little piggy gets sick.

Guinea Pigs Need Space

Guinea pigs need lots of space. The minimum cage size is eight square feet and this is for one, maybe two guinea pigs. The more piggies you have, the bigger the cage size needs to be. This is why people choose to build and C&C cage (cubes and coroplast). These cages allow you to add on as much as you want. Another cage I suggest is the Midwest Guinea Pig Habitat. With this cage you can buy multiple cages and connect them to expand the living space. This is what I use as I find it easier to clean and put together. Whatever your preference is, make sure you have enough space and a big enough cage.

Guinea Pigs Require Patience

Guinea pigs will not cuddle up to you right away. They need to learn to trust you. You need to take the time to bond with your piggies and show them that you care. They rely on their herd members and once you welcome a piggy into your home, you become their herd. They are family. You have to be patient with them. Each guinea pig is different and will require different tactics to earn their trust. You will also need patience with introducing them to new veggies and fruits. Make sure you take your time with your guinea pigs and show them that they are loved and cared for and they will be one of your most loving pets.

If you have the time, money, patience, and space to care for a guinea pig, then they may be a good fit for you. Make sure to take your time and prepare and research before you get any though. Make sure you really can provided the care they need. If you can and you are sure about getting a couple piggies, give it a try! Just be sure as your piggy will not be happy if you decide a week later that you don't want it and give it up for adoption.

Also check out: The Resources Page to download a supply checklist to make sure you have everything you need to take care of your guinea pigs!