🐇 Small Pets

Guinea Pig

Chatty, gentle and great for families.

Guinea pigs are social, vocal rodents that squeak (“wheek”) with excitement. They are gentle, rarely bite and should always be kept in pairs or small groups.

Lifespan5–8 years
SizeSmall · 1.5–2.5 lb
Care levelEasy
Typical cost$40–70 / month
Great for
Families with kidsIndoor homesGentleVocalSocial
Guinea Pig

Photo: Unknown · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Care guide

Daily care

At least 7.5 sq ft for two; solid floors and fleece or paper bedding. No wire floors.

Unlimited hay, fresh veggies and guinea pig pellets. They need daily vitamin C.

Daily floor time in a safe, enclosed area.

Brush short-haired breeds weekly, long-haired daily. Trim nails monthly.

Health

Common health concerns

Know what to watch for. Early detection makes most of these far easier and cheaper to treat.

  • Vitamin C deficiency (scurvy)
  • Respiratory infections
  • Dental overgrowth
  • Bladder stones
  • Bumblefoot
Veterinary care

Vet visits

Exotics vet check-up yearly; weigh weekly at home to catch problems early.

Find a vet near me

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This guide is general information, not veterinary advice. Costs are rough U.S. estimates for food, supplies and routine care. Always consult a licensed veterinarian about your pet’s needs.