What care to guinea pigs need?
Guinea pigs make fantastic pets, but don't let those sweet potato faces fool you, they need a lot of daily care so before deciding on whether to adopt, have a look at what guinea pigs need to stay happy and healthy.
We are updating this page all the time, so please check back in to find out more.
Housing
Guinea pigs need housing that gives them plenty of floor space and is kept in a safe, stable location, since they’re active animals but also easily stressed.
For size, many pet shop cages are far too small. A good minimum for two guinea pigs (they should usually be kept in pairs or groups) is around 120 cm x 60 cm (4 ft x 2 ft), but larger is much better, especially because guinea pigs need room to run, explore, and separate areas for sleeping, eating, and toileting. For larger groups, the enclosure should increase in size accordingly.
Multi-level cages are not ideal because guinea pigs are not natural climbers and can injure themselves on steep ramps or falls, so a large single-level enclosure works best.
The location of the housing is just as important. The cage should be placed indoors in a quiet area of the home where the temperature stays between 18–24°C. Guinea pigs are sensitive to extreme heat, cold, and sudden temperature changes, so cages should be kept away from direct sunlight, radiators, fireplaces, and draughty windows or doors. They should also be positioned away from loud noises such as televisions, speakers, or busy hallways, as stress can affect their health. At the same time, placing them in a room where people spend time helps them stay socialised and used to human interaction.
What do guinea pigs eat?
Guinea pigs need a balanced diet to stay healthy, and the most important part of their diet is fresh hay. Hay, such as Timothy hay, should make up around 80–90% of their food intake because it helps wear down their constantly growing teeth and supports healthy digestion. Hay should be available at all times.
They should also be given a small daily portion of guinea pig pellets that are specifically formulated for their nutritional needs. Pellets containing added Vitamin C are especially important because guinea pigs cannot produce their own vitamin C and need it in their diet to prevent deficiencies.
Fresh vegetables should be offered every day as well. Good options include leafy greens like Romaine lettuce, Kale, Coriander, and vegetables such as Bell pepper, which is high in vitamin C. Small amounts of fruit like Apple or Strawberry can be given occasionally as treats because they contain a lot of sugar.
Guinea pigs should always have access to clean, fresh water, changed daily. Foods that should be avoided include chocolate, onions, garlic, dairy products, potatoes, and iceberg lettuce, as these can make them ill. A healthy diet helps guinea pigs maintain strong teeth, a healthy digestive system, and overall wellbeing.
Enrichment
Enrichment is important for guinea pigs because it keeps them mentally stimulated, physically active, and prevents boredom. Guinea pigs are naturally curious animals that enjoy exploring their environment, so their enclosure should include items that encourage natural behaviours such as hiding, chewing, and foraging.
They should be provided with hiding places such as tunnels, wooden houses, cardboard boxes, or fleece hideouts where they can feel safe and secure. Toys that are safe to chew, such as untreated wood chews or hay-based toys, help keep their teeth healthy because guinea pigs’ teeth grow continuously.
Food-based enrichment is also useful. Owners can hide vegetables or small treats around the enclosure, place hay in different areas, or use feeding balls and forage mats to encourage guinea pigs to search for food, which mimics natural foraging behaviour.
Guinea pigs also benefit from regular exercise outside their cage in a secure play area where they can run and explore safely. Social enrichment is equally important, as guinea pigs are highly social animals and are happiest when kept with other guinea pigs. Providing a variety of enrichment activities helps keep guinea pigs healthy, active, and reduces stress.
