Guinea pigs: More than your ordinary pet? Understanding the complex nature of domestic cavies

Guinea pigs are larger and considerably more hardy than hamsters, which is why they are increasingly becoming the pet of choice for many. You can stroke and gently cuddle them, which certainly advocates in favor of choosing them as a pet. However, they do have some characteristics that may not suit everyone. That's precisely why you should contemplate if purchasing one is the right choice for you.

To begin with, let’s enhance our knowledge. These proverbial pigs have another name — domestic cavies. Animal lovers often avoid the term "pig" as they deem it somewhat derogatory. In Europe, they are seen as adorable pets, but in South America they are predominantly bred for meat. Thankfully, in our part of the world, no one has considered eating these enchanting rodents. There are many types of guinea pigs, but adult ones measure between 25 to 30cm, making them perfect pets.

One of the key behavioural aspects of this breed is their herd life. A guinea pig which is alone can become quite depressed, so it's wise to provide it with appropriate companionship. Some breeders only sell guinea pigs in pairs as purchasing single ones is not an option. Initially, a guinea pig might appear quite nervous, but over time it gets accustomed to its owner and enjoys being petted.

The tiny rodent is active 24/7, but takes quite a few naps in between. Some can even sleep for upto 20 hours daily. If your heart desires a peaceful night's sleep without noises from a cage, it is advisable to keep it outside of your bedroom. The guinea pig tends to get excited on seeing people and food. It can make funny sounds, akin to pig grunting. Despite its small size, it digests food very quickly and can defecate up to 100 times a day, indicating the necessity of regular cage cleaning.

When setting up a space for your pet, don't forget about providing it with a hideaway where it can retreat when feeling threatened. Such a safe haven becomes particularly useful at the start when the pet isn't fully accustomed to its new environment. How does a guinea pig react to other animals? It generally gets along with them, but for safety reasons, it should not be left alone with other quadrupeds.

When taking the guinea pig out of the cage, ensure a stable grip and place it on hard surfaces where it has the freedom to walk around. Nearing the end, it's worth noting that these rodents can live a relatively long life span, typically seven years. However, the oldest recorded guinea pig lived up to 14 years and 10 months, earning it a place in the Guinness Book of Records.