Guinea Pig Pros and Cons

Guinea pigs are small furry mammals that originated in the Andes mountains in South America. They are not related to pigs, nor are they from Guinea. Typically they are between 8-10 inches long and have no tail. They weigh around 1.5-2 pounds for females and 2-2.5 pounds for males.

Guinea pigs are also referred to as "Cavies" as they are members of the Caviidae family group. Domesticated thousands of years ago, guinea pigs are popular as pets around the world.

While guinea pig sounds are not as loud as a barking dog, they do make noises often described as (Wheeking, chutting, clucking, bubbling, purring, rumbling, chattering, whining, chirping, shrieking, clicking, crackling, wheezing, or hooting).

Guinea pigs might be nervous at first (as they are prey animals) but with steady gentle interactions, they will generally become more tame and comfortable with their owners. Many will make an excited squeal when they see their human. They often huddle for warmth and protection, and prefer to be in close contact with other guinea pigs.

Some guinea pigs do not like being pet at all and others may not mind being petted in certain areas or under certain conditions (such as when they are receiving a treat). The best areas to pet a guinea pig is on the head, forehead, around the neck and cheeks, and a little on its back but not all the way to the tail. Guinea Pigs mostly do not like to be touched on their feet or stomachs.

Guinea pigs:

• Come in range of colors, different browns, grey, white, orange, and different variations.

• Are highly social animals and do the best with the companionship of a second guinea pig. A guinea pig kept as a single pet, could become lonely and depressed and be more prone to health issues.

• Live longer than hamsters, gerbils, and rats and each of them have unique personalities.

• Need a large enclosure or cage (usually larger than the cages advertised as guinea pig cages) with regular weekly deep cleaning and daily maintenance.

• Are typically most active during the day, but occasionally wake up and move around in the nighttime.

• Need to spend some time outside of their enclosure for exercise and exploration, 1-2 hours at least is ideal.

• Need to be groomed regularly. Shorthaired breeds can be maintained with brushing once a week and longhaired breeds need daily grooming.

Pros of Guinea Pig as Pets

• Guinea Pigs are very cute and lovable, with individual personalities
• Guinea Pigs make unique noises, such as purring and squealing when they see their owner
• Guinea Pigs are fun to watch when they play
• Guinea Pigs come in a variety of different colors and hair lengths
• Guinea Pigs can be very sociable
• Guinea Pigs can enjoy delicate gentle human contacts
• Guinea Pigs overall have good temperaments
• Guinea Pigs have a longer lifespan than other rodents, 5-7 years average or longer, possibly up to 14 years
• Guinea Pigs personalities are unique
• Guinea Pigs do not need to be bathed often

Cons of Guinea Pigs as Pets

• Guinea Pigs are fragile and easily startled animals, they can get injured easily if not handled properly
• A guinea pig may not be the best pet for a younger child that could accidently squeeze, drop or scare the animal
• Guinea Pigs need a special (guinea pig specific) balanced vegetarian diet
• Guinea Pigs are homebound. You cannot take a guinea pig out for a walk like a dog
• Guinea Pigs enclosures can smell if their cage is not cleaned regularly
• Guinea Pigs poop a lot, daily cleaning of their enclosure is needed
• Guinea Pigs can be timid or afraid. You will need to spend time helping them to feel comfortable with you
• Guinea Pigs chew a lot, they need supervision to make sure they are not chewing on items that they shouldn't be
• Guinea Pigs need companionship, it is best if they have a guinea pig companion. The more guinea pigs you have the more enclosure space, accessories, food and supplies needed.
• Guinea Pigs do make noises. Guinea Pigs are not as loud as a dog barking or a cat meowing but could potentially still keep you up at night if their enclosure is close to where you sleep.
• Guinea Pigs cannot share the same enclosure/cage space as a different kind of rodent
• Guinea Pigs have specific temperature needs to be healthy
• Guinea Pigs have a long lifespan, and require a long-term commitment

If you decide a guinea pig is right for you, consider checking out your local shelter/rescue for an adoption.