Kingston Shines a Spotlight on Guinea Pig Happiness & Care

Who can resist the charm of those happy, chatty little squeakers we call guinea pigs? These delightful pets bring endless joy to our lives. This month we're putting a spotlight on guinea pigs to help you provide the very best care for them.

At Kingston, our veterinary team have extensive experience caring for guinea pigs of all shapes, sizes, and breeds. If you ever have any questions or concerns, we're here to help! Simply reach out to us and we'll provide the guidance you need. 

Why own a guinea pig?

The first thing our vets want to highlight is that that guinea pigs make delightful companions, adored by families and individuals for their gentle and curious nature. They enjoy exploring and interacting with their environment, forming strong bonds with owners and even responding to their names. Their playful antics, like popcorn jumps - repeatedly jumping into the air like popcorn kernels popping - and cheerful squeaks, offer endless entertainment. Keep reading to discover how easy caring for guinea pigs can be.

What your guinea pig needs

Balanced diet

Pet guinea pigs need a balanced diet of fresh hay, quality guinea pig pellets, and fresh vegetables like bell peppers, safe leafy greens, and carrots (containing essential vitamins like vitamin C). Hay should be the main part of their diet for dental health and digestion. Always provide fresh, clean water.

Spacious & well-ventilated habitat

A large, well-ventilated cage or hutch with hiding spots, tunnels, and levels is important for your guinea pig's wellbeing, letting them move freely and engage in natural exploring and burrowing behaviours. Place it in a quiet area and clean regularly with fresh bedding to keep your guinea pig healthy. Our vets in Kingston-upon-Thames advise that you consider adding a fly screen to ward off fly-strike.

Enrichment

Provide varied toys and enrichment activities for guinea pigs, such as chew toys, foraging trays, hanging treats, and tunnels. Rotate items to maintain curiosity, offering daily floor time in a secure area, and engaging them with gentle handling and hand-feeding treats.

Grooming

Guinea pigs are known for their shiny, lustrous fur, regardless of colour or length. Regular grooming is part of their routine, so any changes in grooming habits could signal an underlying issue - call us if you have concerns on 020 8549 3567.

Spotting signs of illness

Daily interactions with your guinea pig provide ample opportunities to observe their behaviour. A happy, healthy piggy is alert, sociable, full of energy, and eating almost non-stop. If you notice any changes, such as decreased activity, not eating, or unusual quietness, it's worth investigating further.

Routine check-ups

Just like any other pet, guinea pigs benefit from professional care and attention. Regular check-ups are important for maintaining your guinea pig's wellbeing, including their dental health. Give us a call on 020 8549 3567 and our team will ensure your furry friend receives the best care possible.

We hope you enjoyed our article on guinea pig care! Share it with friends and get in touch if you'd like more advice.