March was Adopt a Rescued Guinea Pig Month and before we put this cuddly topic to rest, a final reminder that you could probably find an AWESOME new friend at a shelter. Your local rescue might not have a huge variety to choose from, but it’s really hard to go wrong with ANY guinea pig. They tend to be friendly, sociable little critters who become very animated when they see or hear their owner approaching. You’ll be amazed at the variety of whistles, squeaks and chirps that will greet you every day! A few last things to bear in mind when you adopt a guinea pig.
Guinea pigs are sociable creatures and do well in small groups. Just make very sure you know what sex your new little piggies are! Females can get pregnant when they are just 4 weeks old, give birth to an average of 4 babies approximately 2 – 2 1/2 months later, get pregnant again almost immediately, and can easily be grandmothers before their first birthday!
Females do well together but males may fight – especially if they can smell females. It’s easier to keep males together if they came from the same litter. If not, make sure they have plenty of space, hiding holes and food. Don’t keep females in the same room and wash your hands after handling your girls before reaching into the boys’ cage.
When adding litter to your guinea pig cage, don’t use cedar! Cedar causes respiratory distress and potentially death in guinea pigs. Pine shavings may not smell as nice (to us, anyway) but they work great and are much safer for your pets.
Like humans, guinea pigs can’t produce vitamin C in their bodies, so they need to eat foods high in vitamin C such as kale, snap peas and strawberries. For more information, check out this article from VeterinaryPartner.com: Vitamin C Supplements for Guinea Pigs.
With Easter approaching we know baby chicks and bunnies are in high demand. We just ask that you remember the guinea pig too.
If you have more questions or need a sitter for your adopted guinea pig, rabbit or yes…even ducks and chickens, contact us. We would be delighted to help you with the whole posse!