If you're reading this, there's a good chance you're a first-time guinea
pig caretaker. Congratulations, you've got some very special, very
expressive new friends. Bet you can't wait to learn all about these cuddly
characters--and if you give them the chance, they'll have no problem
letting you know how they feel. Easily the most vocal of all companion
rodents, these charming critters will have you speaking "guinea pig" in no
time.
How to Take Care of Guinea Pigs
Did you know that your pet's wild counterparts are highly social and live
in large herds? That’s why it's very important that you keep at least a
pair. Two or more guinea pigs housed together will become great friends,
but they will also bond with you, too. You'll need to give each of your
pigs some special attention every day. For the more mellow fellows, 30
minutes or so of quietly sitting on your lap may be pure heaven. While most
piggies enjoy cuddling with their humans, a few individuals don't. If yours
is in the latter group, take the time to figure out what he likes best.
Maybe he'd prefer to tunnel through some of his favorite PVC pipes!
There's something special about your pets' teeth, too. Your guinea pigs'
front teeth, like that of all rodents, grow continuously throughout their
lives. To help keep their choppers properly shaped and nicely filed, your
pets will need to chew--a lot! Check your pet supply store for a variety of
safe, appropriate chew toys. Branches and twigs from untreated trees will
also fit the bill--AND give your companions something fun to do. Do not
give them wood from cedar, apricot, cherry and peach trees, as they are
toxic.
Now a few words about your pets' unique dietary requirements. Unlike other
animals, guinea pigs cannot manufacture vitamin C from glucose in their
food, so you'll have to make sure your buddies get enough of this essential
vitamin every day. Read our section on NUTRITIONAL NEEDS for the whole
scoop. And please do not become alarmed if you notice your pets eating
their droppings. This may seem strange to you, but is perfectly normal, and
allows them to obtain essential nutrients from their food that they weren't
able to get on the first pass.
Get the Facts on Guinea Pigs & Vocalization
Have you figured out yet what your piggies are trying to tell you? These
guys are known for their many vocalizations. When you feed or stroke your
pets, they may respond with a gurgling sound that's a little like
purring--or grunting, as some people describe it. These sounds of a
contented camper can't easily be confused with the loud teeth chattering of
an angry guinea pig. High-pitched squeals are usually requests for food or
attention, but a much more intense squeal can indicate fright or dismay.
Your pets speak loud and clear with their body language, too. For example,
if one of your piggies tries to touch your nose with hers, be honored--that
means she really likes you. Then there's the trademark guinea pig move
known as popcorning, when an animal leaps straight up into the air for
seemingly no apparent reason--other than pure piggy happiness! Your little
guys will probably have their own special dialects, too, and as you know
more about them, you'll be able to figure out what they're saying. Have
fun!
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