General medicine and surgery are available for pocket pets, exotics, avians, reptiles, and small mammals.

Guinea Pigs

General Information

Guinea pigs are domesticated rodents often kept as pets, though wild guinea pigs can still be found in South America. They were first domesticated around 5,000 B.C.

  • Breeds & Colors: 13 breeds, 20 colors, and 13 coat types.
  • Lifespan: 5–7 years on average.
  • Weight: Most adult guinea pigs weigh between 2–2.6 lbs.
  • Vocalizations: There are 6 types—chutts, squeaks, whines, whistles, purrs, and chirps.

Diet

Pellets (~10% of diet)

  • Portion: 2 tbsp per day. Should be a grass hay-based pellet.
  • Recommended Brands: Oxbow, Kaytee, Mazuri, ZuPreem, Science Selective.
  • NO ALFALFA unless pregnant, lactating, or under 6 months old.
  • Avoid pellet mixes with dried fruits, nuts, seeds, or grains (too high in fat & carbs).

Hay (~80% of diet)

  • Free choice, available at all times.
  • Types: Fescue, brome, orchard, rye, timothy, meadow, oat.
  • NO ALFALFA unless pregnant, lactating, or under 6 months old.

Fresh Veggies & Fruits (~10% of diet)

  • Good options: Red/green bell peppers, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, mustard greens, turnip greens, cauliflower, dandelion greens, cilantro, romaine lettuce, sweet potato, carrots, kiwi, strawberries, oranges, cantaloupe, apple, tomatoes.
  • In small amounts: Kale, parsley, beet greens, chicory, spinach.
  • Fruit limit: No more than 1 tsp per day.

Vitamin C Supplementation

  • Avoid water additives (can change taste and discourage drinking).
  • Best options: Vitamin C pellets added to greens or pellets, following package instructions.
  • Oxbow Vitamin C treats are a good choice.

Introduce new foods gradually. Once you find favorites, stick to them!

Recommended Veterinary Care

  • Annual exam recommended.
  • Every 6 months for guinea pigs older than 4 years.
  • Spay/neuter is case-by-case.
  • Nail trims as needed (ask your vet about at-home training).

Signs of Illness

If your guinea pig shows any of these signs, contact a vet:

  • Not eating or drinking for 12+ hours.
  • Abnormal feces for 12+ hours.
  • Weight loss.
  • Congestion, nasal discharge, coughing, or sneezing.
  • Other abnormal discharge.
  • Limping.
  • Behavior changes.

Housing Requirements

  • Minimum cage size: 3ft x 2ft (12 sq. ft.) for one guinea pig—bigger is always better!
  • Multiple guinea pigs need larger cages with separate food & water sources.
  • Solid-bottom cages are preferred (wire bottoms can cause foot problems).
  • Bedding: Soft, cleanable bedding like paper bedding or fleece (washed with unscented detergent). Avoid strong-smelling wood shavings.
  • Proper ventilation is critical—no aquariums or solid-sided enclosures (can cause respiratory issues).
  • Ideal temperature: 65–75°F, avoiding extreme temps, direct sunlight, and drafts.
  • Social needs: Guinea pigs are social animals! Many do well in pairs or groups, but not all get along. Slow, supervised introductions in a neutral space are best.

Enrichment

Providing mental and physical stimulation is essential. Good enrichment options include:

  • Snuffle mats
  • Toilet paper tubes stuffed with hay
  • Paper bags with hay
  • Chewable toys

Exotics Guinea Pig PDF