If you are thinking about getting a pet for your home, you
might want to consider a guinea pig. Guinea pigs, also called
cavies, are lovable furry little critters that will bring you a
lot of joy. In addition, guinea pigs can be a perfect first pet
for children because they are easy to care for and more cuddly
than a hamster and or fish. Here is some more information to
help you determine whether a guinea pig is the right pet for
you.
If you are thinking about getting a pet for your home, you may a
first consider a dog or cat. These animals are perfect for homes
if you have a lot of time to dedicate to owning a pet. Dogs and
cats need a lot of attention and a lot of space. Guinea pigs on
the other hand are just as cute as dog, cats, and they do not
require near as much space or care. Many people love the idea of
guinea pigs as first pets for children because they live a lot
longer than hamsters or gerbils. In fact, a well cared for
guinea pig can live up to eight or nine years. Once you own a
guinea pig, you will be hooked by these cute, sweet natured
critters.
When you go to the store to get a guinea pig, it is always a
good idea to look at them carefully and choose them by their
personality. Each guinea pig has his or her own personality.
Some are more reserved in nature, while others are more
outgoing. If you are choosing a guinea pig for your child, you
want to make sure that your guinea pig can tolerate being held
and petted. Guinea pigs are not known to be aggressive or to
bite, but your child will have no fun with a shy guinea pig.
Guinea pigs are also should social animals, and they enjoy the
company of other guinea pigs. If you are planning to get a
guinea pig, you might want to consider getting two guinea pigs
at the same time. Male guinea pigs get along quite well with
each other when you get them when they are babies. Male guinea
pigs will fight with each other. If you introduce them after
they are grown. Female guinea pigs can also get along well with
each other. It is not recommended that you get a male and a
female, unless you want to breed guinea pigs.
When looking at guinea pig cages, you need to find one that will
allow enough room for movement and play. Guinea pigs like to
stay hidden when they sleep, so make sure that your cage has a
place where they can hide. A plastic or wooden structure inside
the cage is always a good idea. You will also want to add some
sort of betting to the bottom of your guinea pig cage for easy
cleanup. Cedar chips are not recommended. You also want to
include a large water bottle for your guinea pig. If you have,
two guinea pigs consider getting two water bottles. Guinea pigs
love to drink water, so make sure that you give them plenty of
fresh water every day.
Some experts recommend adding vitamin C drops to their water.
This works well for some guinea pigs. However, some guinea pigs
do not like the taste and will not drink the water. If you do
decide to add vitamin C drops to their water, make sure they are
staying hydrated throughout the day. If you choose not to
include vitamin C drops with their water. You can supplement
their diet with fresh fruits and vegetables. Guinea pigs love
fresh vegetables and fruits of all kinds. Just make sure that
you are not overfeeding your guinea pigs and use fruits and
vegetables as treats. As far as food is concerned, you will want
to feed your guinea pigs specially formulated guinea pig pellets
available at pet stores. Guinea pigs also needed daily supply of
Timothy hay to help aid in digestion.
Guinea pigs are great pets for all types of homes. When you get
your guinea pig young, you can work with it to social it. You
and your children will enjoy these adorable pets for many years
to come.