Pest Library

Characteristics

Guinea pigs are large rodents that are known for their variety of cute, adorable colors and coat lengths. They measure from 7 4/5 to 15 7/10 inch from head to rump and may be around 1/2 to 3 lbs in weight. Males are heavier than females. They also have incisors that grow continuously, which they also have to wear down by constant chewing.

Habitat

In their natural habitat, guinea pigs may be found on grassy plains, living in small groups that are consisted of a male or boar, several females or sows, and their pups. They do not create burrows, but will search shelter from the burrows of other animals. Domesticated guinea pigs are commonly housed in cages.

Behavior

Guinea pigs in the wild commonly move together in herds. They do not store food nor create burrows or build nests. They live one day at a time in the hope that they will not be caught by their predators. They are mostly active at dusk and dawn to avoid being seen by their predators.

Domesticated guinea pigs are known to show familiarity towards other guinea pigs, especially if they were introduced at a younger age. They live in groups of two or more sows or boars. In house guinea pigs have also created their own time clock so that they can enjoy the care of their humans. They may be active mostly during the day, but will give themselves short periods of rest in between activities.

Guinea pigs are intelligent creatures that can remember paths for food, and can accurately remember these paths, even after months of not going back there. Although they are not good climbers and are not quick, they can still run or freeze to avoid danger.

Other behavior of guinea pigs include:
• Participating in social grooming to • establish hierarchy.
• Showing dominance through biting of the other guinea pigs ears.
• Communicating with other guinea pigs through vocalization.

Food

Guinea pigs love to eat grass. For domesticated guinea pigs, a variety of fruits and vegetables can also be introduced. There are also available guinea pig pellets that can fulfil the nutritional needs of the pet. Their diet should also include plenty of vitamin C since they do not have enough enzyme to produce this vitamin.

Life Cycle

Guinea pigs can breed all year round and they can produce up to five litters or more. The female guinea pig may even get pregnant again right after giving birth. Gestation period is from 59 to 72 days. The pups that are born are well-developed and have already claws, teeth, and hair. Although they will still need their mother to get milk, these pups can already feed on solid food. In a good environment, these rodents can live for 5 to 8 years.

Other Information and Tips

Guinea pigs are excellent starter pets for older kids, but will still require the supervision and care of an adult to really take care of this pet. This rodent is even known for being a good companion and will show excitement if it sees its favorite human. However, care should also be taken when bringing this pet home. If you do not intend to breed guinea pigs, make sure that the boars and sows are in different cages so that you will not have more pups. You should also make sure that their cages are safe and clean to give them a good and loving environment.

Photo: Guinea Pigs by Daniel Hall, used under CC BY-SA 2.0 / resized from original