Equipment for your Guinea Pig

Thinking of owning a guinea pig? Then check out the Twootz guide to essential items for first-time owners!

Create the ideal home for your guinea pig by ensuring you buy everything he needs to lead a happy and healthy lifestyle.

Cage

When purchasing an indoor cage or outdoor hutch for your guinea pig you should consider:

Size

• Choose the largest size you can afford that will fit comfortably into your home/garden


• Allow a minimum space of approximately 45cm x 45cm per guinea pig. The height of the cage should be at least 30cm

Construction

• Cages should be made from solid wood or strong wire (depending on whether your pet will be housed inside or outdoors)


• Coat wooden hutches with a non-toxic weatherproof treatment


• The spacing between the bars of wire cages should be small enough to prevent your guinea pig from escaping


• Guinea pigs are sensitive to draughts and cold so ensure the hutch is placed in a sheltered location


• Ensure the cage is free from dangerous protrusions that may cause injury

Feeding

Your guinea pig will require the following feeding accessories:

• A heavy earthenware or metal bowl to prevent him from tipping his food over


• A gravity-feed water bottle to prevent contamination


• A bottle-brush to clean out his water bottle

Twootz provides Guinea Pig food and Small Animal fruity mix which are both ideal for your Guinea pigs well being.

Bedding

Suitable bedding materials include:

• Wood shavings – ensure they are derived from untreated softwood (eg pine), as is usually sold in pet stores, otherwise your pet may suffer respiratory ailments and allergic reactions


• Hay – only use clean, fresh hay and remember to offer an additional daily source for eating


• Shredded paper – ensure that it is free from ink in case your guinea pig decides to chew it

Avoid sawdust as the fine particles may irritate your guinea pig's eyes and respiratory tract.

Toys and treats

• Provide your guinea pig with mental and physical stimulation by offering a variety of toys and treats


• Toys should be of durable design and treats given in moderation to prevent selective feeding and obesity

Suitable toys include:

• Drainpipes – ensure they are large enough to prevent him from becoming stuck inside them


• Terracotta flowerpots – avoid plastic ones as these are chewable


• Deciduous tree branches – guinea pigs particularly enjoy apple tree branches


• Cardboard boxes – cut holes in the sides to allow your pet to play hide-and-seek


• Feed balls – fill with his favourite food/treats; they will be dispensed when he rolls them around

Suitable treats include:

• Fresh fruit and vegetables – hang them from string in the cage to provide extra stimulation


• Baked wholemeal bread – provides a good chewing treat to help maintain dental health


• Honey sticks – a variety of stick treats are available from pet shops in different recipes and flavours

Grooming

Long-haired guinea pigs (e.g. Peruvians) will require daily grooming to prevent fur balls and matting. This will also give you the opportunity to give your pet a health check.

You will require the following items in your grooming kit:

• A soft-bristled brush – also for use on short-haired breeds and around the face


• Slicker brush – useful for gently ‘teasing’ knots out of the hair


• Comb – for gently removing mats and tangles


• Round-ended scissors – for carefully removing any difficult mats and general trimming


• Nail clippers – ask your vet to demonstrate the correct way to trim your guinea pig’s claws before you attempt this task