The domestic cavy is the only species of guinea pig which can be kept as a pet, living for an average 5-8 years. Guinea pigs are sociable animals, thus its important and ethical if you keep then in groups of 2 or more. Just because it may be easy to look after Guinea Pigs, doesn't mean you shouldn't be prepared. On the very exiting day which you take your furballs home, you'll most likely feel better knowing you're ready to give them the best life you possibly can.
Quick note about caring for Guinea Pigs
Guinea Pigs don't usually like loud noises, thus meaning that most people keep them outside in a hutch. However some people keep them indoors in an area which everyone within the household tries to keep as quiet as possible. You should get a cage, enclosure or hutch as big as you can. Don't buy small plastic cages as they can be far too small, and your Piggies will quickly become Depressed. They need a large area with shelter to hide from scary things or to relax. Make sure they cannot escape from their hutch, enclosure or cage! (See our post on cage size guidelines).
Guinea Pigs need plenty of Vitamin C and and lots of fibre, so make sure you keep an eye out for this in their food. You also need to ensure that they have fresh and easily accessible water and hay, as well has pellet food or equivalent. Don't buy or feed treats or food to Guinea Pigs until you know that it is safe for them to eat. There's a huge list of Dos and Don'ts with Guinea Pigs, for example don't buy salt licks as their food should already contain the salt that they need to survive. Too much salt can be very unhealthy and could possibly result in death.
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