Fancy Guinea Pig

Description: Guinea pigs, also called "cavies," are rodents native to the grasslands of South America. Trade records from the 16th century show that they have been popular animals for hundreds of years, and it's easy to see why! Guinea pigs are typically docile, friendly, and easy to handle. Despite their small size, they are also full of personality. Guinea pigs exhibit lots of different behaviors, but one of the most iconic is called "popcorning" When excited, sometimes they just cannot contain their joy, and they will hop and jump around like pieces of popcorn! Check out our Guinea Pig Care Guide to learn more about your furry friend!

Species: Fancy Guinea Pig

Normal Pet Size at Maturity: up to 12" (30 cm)

Average Lifespan: Guinea pigs live for 5 to 8 years.

Basic Diet: For detailed feeding information, check out the care & feeding section of our Guinea Pig Care Guide! Guinea pigs feed on grasses/hay, plants and greens. Pellet guinea pig diet should also be offered and freely available and refreshed daily. Treats and fruit can be offered twice a week.

Habitat Necessities: for full details, see the Setting up your Guinea Pig Habitat section of our care guide!

• Place the habitat in a low humidity area that's between 65-75°F (18-24°C) and out of direct sunlight
  
• Add a hay feeder and fill it with hay for chewing on to help maintain your guinea pig's dental health
  
• Add one or two hides to the habitat so your guinea pig has somewhere to rest and feel safe
  
• A deep clean and full bedding change of the habitat should be done every two weeks
  
• Add wood chews and other toys for enrichment

Does this Pet Need a Roommate? Guinea pigs are social animals and do best when kept in same-sexed pairs or small groups (3-5).

Minimum Enclosure Size: Choose a habitat that is at least 24" x 36" x 24" or larger with a solid bottom

Safety Tips for You and Your Pet: It is recommended to closely monitor any new pet for 30 days in their own enclosure to observe signs of illness, prevent the spread of potential diseases, and to limit stress while your pet acclimates to their new home. All new pets should be seen by a veterinarian within 14 days of purchase to establish care and discuss a health and wellness plan. All animals can potentially carry viral, bacterial, fungal, and parasitic diseases contagious to humans. Thoroughly wash your hands with warm, soapy water before and after contact with any pet or its habitat. Adults should assist children with hand washingafter contact with a pet or its enclosure. Use caution when handling pets, and remember they may bite or scratch, especially when stressed.

Vet Assured: Pets purchased at PetSmart are part of our exclusive Vet Assured program, designed by PetSmart veterinarians to help improve the health and well-being of our pets. Our vendors meet a high standard in caring for pets and screening them for common illnesses, including Zoonotic diseases. This program also includes specific standards for in-store pet care.

When to Contact a Veterinarian: contact your small animal veterinarian if you notice the following signs:

• not eating or drinking normally
  
• decrease in droppings or urination
  
• cloudy, sunken or swollen eyes
  
• overgrown front teeth or drooling
  
• bare patches in the fur
  
• lethargic behavior
  
• sneezing; discharge from the eyes, nose or mouth
  
• diarrhea or discolored droppings for more the 6-8 hours
  
• not passing any stools for 12hrs
  
• head tilt
  
• new lumps/growths
  
• lameness/limping or swelling in the joints

The PetSmart Promise: If your pet becomes ill during the initial 14-day period, or if you're not satisfied for any reason, PetSmart will gladly replace the pet or refund the purchase price.