A kind of rodent known as the guinea pig is one of the most popular choices for keeping as an unusual pet. There are many distinct sorts of guinea pigs, each of which has its own unique pattern of coloring and coat texture. The American, the Abyssinian, and the Peruvian are the most frequent types. The American has a short, silky coat, while the Abyssinian has a short coat with swirls called rosettes (long coat). Skinny pigs are a kind of hairless variety that are also available. Guinea pigs are often calm and sociable animals, making them excellent pets. Their maintenance requires a modest investment of time but is otherwise uncomplicated. Their living quarters may be constructed and maintained with relative ease, and their food can be purchased at almost any pet supply shop.
Because guinea pigs are sociable creatures, it is best to house them in pairs of the same gender or in small groups to avoid them from becoming lonely or bored.
1 It is recommended to have a pair of females rather than two males since males are more likely to fight with one another, particularly if they have not been spayed. It is in your best interest to prevent your guinea pig from interacting with any of the other animals that live in your home, particularly any carnivores like dogs, cats, and ferrets, since they are very likely to damage your pet.
Guinea pigs might be apprehensive when they are initially brought home as pets, but they seldom bite. The more you handle them, the more used they will get to being picked up and carried about as they become more docile. Guinea pigs form attachments to the individuals who care for them the most, and many of them take pleasure in snuggling up with their owners. Some, when they see their favorite persons, will also let out a high-pitched shriek of joy. There is a wide spectrum of personalities found in guinea pigs, from reserved to extroverted. However, in general, they are kind and sociable animals kept as pets.
Additionally, guinea pigs, despite the fact that they are typically quiet creatures, are capable of making some quite loud vocalizations. This is particularly the case when they are shrieking with joy about a meal. When they are content and comfortable, they are also capable of producing a low-pitched purring sound. They are normally active during the day, however there have been reports of them waking up and being active at night on rare occasions. If you have trouble falling or staying asleep, you probably shouldn't keep their cage in the same room as you do.
Some individuals may be surprised to learn that caring for such a little animal as a guinea pig requires a significant time commitment on their part. You should make it a point to spend at least a few hours each day interacting with your pet outside of its cage, providing it the opportunity to exercise and explore its surroundings. Expect to spend time cleaning the cage at least once per week in addition to the regular feedings that are required of you.