Disorders and Diseases of Guinea Pigs

Health problems among guinea pigs that live alone are usually related to aging, dental disease, reproductive disorders, injury, or improper care. Infectious diseases caused by certain viruses and bacteria usually occur only in guinea pigs that live with other guinea pigs. Intestinal parasites are not common. Tumors are rare in young guinea pigs but are more common in guinea pigs that are more than 5 years old. Treatment of infectious diseases can be complicated by the fact that g

In general, veterinarians do not recommend that individual pet owners attempt to breed guinea pigs. It is often difficult to find homes with caring and responsible pet owners for young guinea pigs. Breeding often reduces the lifespan of female guinea pigs. Breeding a female guinea pig for the first time after she reaches 8 months of age can be very dangerous because of the normal stiffening of the pubic symphysis (a joint of tough fibrous cartilage between the 2 pubi

While guinea pigs do not require any vaccinations, it is recommended that you take your pet to a veterinarian familiar with guinea pigs at least once each year for a routine checkup.   Signs of Illness Guinea pigs should be handled daily. This allows you a regular special time with your pet. It also provides you with the opportunity to check your pet for possible skin problems, injuries, sudden

Before you bring your guinea pig home, make sure you have already purchased and set up the cage and that you have appropriate food available. You should also have a supply of bedding for the cage and a suitable brush. Caring for Your Guinea Pig

When choosing a guinea pig for a pet, look for an animal that appears healthy, plump, and alert. The animal may initially be fearful or skittish but should, in a short time, respond positively to gentle stroking. Check over the animal carefully. The eyes should be bright and clean, not crusty or lusterless. The nose, eyes, ears, and anus should be clear and free of any discharge or discoloration. The teeth should be clean and unstained and the long incisors in the up

Guinea pigs are comfortable only in the narrow temperature range from 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 23°C). They also prefer a low relative humidity (below 50%). When exposed to temperatures above 85°F (29°C), they may develop heat stroke. Thus, special care needs to be exercised when transporting these animals during very cold or very hot days. They do not thrive in drafty locations and should not be constantly exposed to direct sunlight. Because of their small size,

Guinea pigs, like other cavies, are stout and short-legged. Full-grown adults range in length from approximately 8 to 19 inches (20 to 50 cm). Adult guinea pigs are about 5 inches (13 cm) tall. The average adult weight is 30 to 35 ounces (850 to 1000 g). Their normal body temperature is 102°F to 104°F (39°C to 40°C). The guinea pig life span varies, but on average they live 6 to 8 years ( see Table: Guinea Pigs at a Glance).

Guinea pig breeds Guinea pigs