March is Adopt A Guinea Pig Month! These little furballs are very cute and charming pets. They’re quiet, gentle, and easy to care for. However, they do need good TLC. A veterinarian lists some Guinea pig care tips in this article from Fairfield Animal Hospital, your Cypress, TX animal clinic.

Get At Least Two

While many pocket pets can live alone, Guinea pigs can—and should—have roommates. Because they’re so sociable, it’s actually considered cruel to only have one!

Socialize Early

Guinea pigs are very friendly. In fact, they get lonely and depressed if they’re too isolated. Take time to handle, pet, and bond with your little buddies. If possible, start when your cavies are quite young. Be gentle and friendly, and do this daily. You may soon find your furballs becoming quite affectionate with you.

Provide Chew Toys

Like many other small pets, Guinea pigs have open-rooted teeth. This means they need to chew almost continually to prevent dental issues. Offer your cavies plenty of safe, suitable chew toys.

Provide Free Time

Guinea pigs need time out of their cages every day. This is important for both your pets’ health and their well-being. Just do some petproofing, and keep a close eye on your furry pals.

Offer A Great Habitat

Your cavies will spend lots of time in their cage, so make sure it’s a good one. Pick something that is roomy enough for all of your furry buddies. The cage should have a solid bottom, as wire floors can be dangerous. For substrate, you can use paper or soft wood. Avoid hard woods, like pine or cedar. For accessories, you’ll need to add a food bowl, water bottle, hiding place, and toys. Litterboxes and hayracks are optional, but helpful.

Provide Vitamin C

Vitamin C is crucial to cavies. Your tiny buddies could develop scurvy if they don’t get enough! Make sure your cute pets’ diet contains fresh produce that’s high in Vitamin C. Some good options are dandelion, kale, mustard, collard greens, cucumber, basil, and parsley. Ask your vet for specific dietary advice, including portion sizes and unsafe foods.

Do Plenty Of Research

We’ve really just scratched the surface on Guinea pig care. While these things cover the basics, there’s lots more to learn. Do some reading on these charming little guys! Do you have questions about Guinea pig care? Contact Fairfield Animal Hospital, your local Cypress, TX pet clinic, today!