FAQ: Keeping Guinea-Pigs Happy & Healthy

Guinea-pigs make excellent, loving pets for young and old alike. In Western societies, the guinea pig has enjoyed widespread popularity as a household pet since its introduction by European traders in the 16th century.

Can a guinea-pig and rabbit live together providing the cage is large enough?
This is not recommended. A guinea-pig's rib-cage is very frail and vets see many cavies with fractured ribs or punctured lungs as a result of kicks from rabbits. If they absolutely must be kept together, provide a safe refuge for the cavy within the communal area. The entrance to this should only be big enough to admit him.

Do guinea-pigs make good indoor pets?
Yes, they are excellent indoor companions, as they are practically odorless. However, the cage should be cleaned every other day. They are easy to house-train - start this using some soiled newspaper from the cage placed in a cat litter-tray. They will be more inclined to use this if its placed in a dark, quiet place.

Is a rabbit food-mix satisfactory for guinea-pigs?
There are two reasons why a rabbit food mix may not suit a guinea-pig. You must check it does not contain an additive used to prevent Coccidiosis in rabbits. Most rabbit mixes contain this, but they have a toxic effect on guinea-pigs' liver and kidneys. Guinea pig pellets and other diets for them are fortified with the vitamin C that guinea pigs cannot manufacture for themselves. Rabbits and hamsters do not need this supplement as they create the vitamin themselves, and so their feed does not contain extra vitamin C. Fed rabbit, horse or hamster food as the staple part of his diet, a guinea pig would quickly become sick with scurvey, one of the leading causes of death in guinea pigs. If fed these other diets, it would be vital to supplement the guinea pig's intake with vitamin C drops on his food or in his water (20-30 mg per day) and to offer him fresh food rich in vitamin C.

What is the best bedding to provide for guinea-pigs?
Both sawdust and wood-shavings can be very abrasive and dusty, resulting in damage to the animal's skin and hair, drying the skin and pre-disposing it to problems. We recommend lining cages with a waterproof lining and a thick covering of newspapers topped with hay. In cold weather, shredded computer paper is good. This should be cleaned thoroughly at least once a week and fresh hay for eating should be added on a daily basis.

Can I introduce 2 adult males?
Never.

Can I introduce a young male to an adult male?
Yes, provided the young one is between 4 and 6 weeks old. The young animal should be shampooed to remove odors of other animals and you would be as well shampooing both before introduction. Introduce them while they are both still damp. Cavies are less inclined to fight when drying off and should be used to each other by the time they have. Good food in the cage will also help to distract them.

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