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| Encyclopedia on Guinea pig as a pet |
| If handled correctly
early in their life, guinea pigs become amenable to being picked up and
carried, and seldom bite or scratch. They are timid explorers, and
rarely attempt to escape from their cages, even when an opportunity
presents itself. Guinea pigs who become familiar with their owner will
whistle on the owner's approach, they will also learn to whistle in
response to the rustling of plastic bags or the opening of refrigerator
doors, where their food is most commonly stored. Domesticated guinea pigs come in many breeds, which have been developed since their introduction to Europe and North America. These varieties vary in hair and color composition. The most common varieties found in pet stores are the English shorthair (also known as the American), which have a short, smooth coat, and the Abyssinian, whose coat is ruffled with cowlicks, or rosettes. Also popular among breeders are the Peruvian and the Sheltie (or Silkie), both straight longhair breeds, and the Texel, a curly longhair. Cavy Clubs and Associations dedicated to the showing and breeding of guinea pigs have been established worldwide. The American Cavy Breeders Association, an adjunct to the American Rabbit Breeders' Association, is the governing body in the United States and Canada. The British Cavy Council governs cavy clubs in the United Kingdom. Similar organizations exist in Australia (Australian National Cavy Council) and New Zealand (New Zealand Cavy Club). Each club publishes its own Standard of Perfection and determines which breeds are eligible for showing. Before You Decide on Guinea Pigs: Guinea pigs are social animals, and you should consider keeping a same sex pair so they have company. A pair of females is a good choice; a pair of males may be fine but may fight. They are a long-term commitment, with an expected life span of around 5-7 years, although up to 10 isn't unusual. They need a large cage (but fortunately it is easy to meet their needs with a home made cage). While usually quiet they can call out quite loudly, and can be active both day and night. They may be nervous at first but rarely bite and generally become very tame with frequent handling. Usually good family pets (but make sure children handle them gently). Finding a Guinea Pig: Pet stores: only if the store/staff are knowledgeable about guinea pigs, keep them in appropriate, clean housing with a good diet, and handle the guinea pigs regularly. Look for stores that house males and females separately, to avoid a surprise litter. |
| Breeders (caviary):
best option if looking for a show quality pig or a specific type, but
also good for finding pet quality pigs. A good breeder will make sure
the babies are socialized well and handled from an early age. Shelters: guinea pigs often end up in shelters or rescues and this is a great place to give a guinea pig a second chance at life. Guinea pigs from shelters might be a little more skittish at first if they were not handled much when young, but most will settle down in their new homes once a routine is established. Whichever source is chosen, make sure the guinea pig appears in good health and condition, and is well socialized and easy to handle. Choosing a Guinea Pig: Try to avoid guinea pigs that are panicky when handled, especially if they do not relax quickly, and also those that are overly quiet and calm (may be ill). The guinea pig should be alert and active. Avoid guinea pigs that are overly skinny or grossly overweight. The body should be firm and rounded. The nose, eyes, ears, and rear end should be clean and free from discharge. The coat should be full and soft. Check the skin for flakes or redness, and be on the lookout for any signs of parasites such as lice. |