When piglets are born they are fully furred, have eyes wide open and are ready to eat adult food.
The Guinea Pig is a gentle, vegetarian, and virtually odorless mammal native to South America. It will grow to be approximately ten inches in length and weigh approximately 3 pounds. There are many varieties, including the shorthaired, smooth coated English variety, the shorthaired Abyssinian, the Teddy Bear and the longhaired Peruvian. They live for an average 4 to 5 years and reach maturity at three months.
Following are some accessories you can provide for your new little pet that will make his/her life a happier and healthier one.
Guinea Pig Checklist
Housing:
An enclosure made of stainless steel, durable plastic or glass is preferable. It must have plenty of room, at least 100 square inches per adult guinea pig. It can be open at the top with sides at least 8-10 inches high.
Food:
Specially formulated foods are available for the optimal nutrition of your pig. These are usually in the form of pelleted foods enriched with protein fiber. Timothy or Alfalfa hay is a necessary supplement to your guinea pig's diet. The hay will provide roughage for his/her intestinal tract.
Treats:
Special treats for the culinary enjoyment of your pet are available in a variety of flavors.
Vitamin Supplements:
Guinea Pigs require a supplemental dose of vitamin C, which is available in multi-vitamins. They require the vitamin C on a daily basis to prevent disease. Vitamin supplements will insure that all the guinea pigs nutritional requirements are fulfilled.
Salt Block:
Necessary for providing minerals and salt, which are important to your guinea pig's system.
Skin/Coat Conditioner:
Food supplements containing linoleic acid, aid in eliminating excessive scratching, dry skin, hair breakage (unseasonable shedding) while supplying essential fatty acids often missing in seed or chow diets.
Wood Blocks/Chews:
Wood blocks aid in the satisfaction of a guinea pig's chewing instinct. Because guinea pig's teeth grow continuously, a chew toy or a small dog chew will help keep teeth filed down.
Litter:
There are a wide variety of litters available for your small animal's cleanliness and comfort.
Water Bottle:
Water bottles make water most easily available and keep it free of contamination. Ball tips on water bottles help prevent leakage, which can soak bedding. Wet bedding is a health hazard to small animals. Be sure to place the tip of the water bottle in a position that is comfortable for the guinea pig to drink. If the bottle is hung in a cage or tank, a metal bottle holder will keep him/her from chewing the bottle.
Bowl:
A heavy-duty bowl is recommended for food to eliminate excessive spillage.
Books:
There are many books available that will give you information on the behavior and care of your new pet.
