Is A Guinea Pig Right For You
If you are thinking about getting a pet for your home, you might want to consider a guinea pig. Guinea pigs are lovable, furry little critters that will bring you a lot of joy. In addition, guinea pigs can be a perfect first pet for children because they are easy to care for and more cuddly than a hamster and or fish. Here is some more information to help you determine whether a guinea pig is the right pet for you.
If you are thinking about getting a pet for your home, you may first consider a dog or cat. These animals are perfect for homes if you have a lot of time to dedicate to owning a pet. Dogs and cats need a lot of attention and a lot of space. On the other hand, Guinea pigs are just as cute as dogs and cats, and they do not require nearly as much space or care. Many people love the idea of guinea pigs as first pets for children because they live a lot longer than hamsters or gerbils. A well-cared-for guinea pig can live up to eight or nine years. Once you own a guinea pig, you will be hooked by these cute, sweet-natured critters.
When you go to the store to get a guinea pig, it is always good to look at them carefully and choose them by their personality. Each guinea pig has their own personality. Some are more reserved in nature, while others are more outgoing. If you are choosing a guinea pig for your child, you want to make sure that your guinea pig can tolerate being held and petted. Guinea pigs are not known to be aggressive or bite, but your child will have no fun with a shy guinea pig.
Guinea pigs are also should social animals, and they enjoy the company of other guinea pigs. If you are planning to get a guinea pig, you might want to consider getting two guinea pigs at the same time. Male guinea pigs get along quite well with each other when you get them when they are babies. Male guinea pigs will fight with each other if you introduce them after they are grown. Female guinea pigs can also get along well with each other. It is not recommended that you get a male and a female unless you want to breed guinea pigs.
When looking at guinea pig cages, you need to find one that will allow enough room for movement and play. Guinea pigs like to stay hidden when they sleep, so make sure that your cage has a place where they can hide. A plastic or wooden structure inside the cage is always a good idea. You will also want to add some sort of betting to the bottom of your guinea pig cage for easy cleanup. Cedar chips are not recommended. You also want to include a large water bottle for your guinea pig. If you have two guinea pigs, consider getting two water bottles. Guinea pigs love to drink water, so make sure you give them plenty of fresh water every day.
Guinea Pigs need vitamin c added to their diet. Some experts recommend adding vitamin C drops to their water. Adding drops to the water works well for some guinea pigs; however, some guinea pigs do not like the taste and will not drink the water. If you decide to add vitamin C drops to their water, make sure they stay hydrated throughout the day. If you choose not to include vitamin C drops with their water, You can supplement their diet with fresh fruits and vegetables. Red and Green peppers are highly recommended as a source of Vitamin C. Ensure that you are not overfeeding your guinea pigs and use fruits and vegetables as treats. As far as food is concerned, you will want to feed your guinea pigs specially formulated guinea pig pellets available at pet stores. Guinea pigs also need a daily supply of Timothy hay to help digestion.
Guinea pigs are great pets for all types of homes. When you get your guinea pig young, you can work with it to social it. You and your children will enjoy these adorable pets for many years to come.