Introduction to Cavies (Guinea-Pigs)

Brushing and combing

If you have a long haired guinea pig (such as a Peruvian), you need to brush and comb it every day. If you have a smooth, short haired one (English, American, or Bolivian) or one with whorls of fur (Abyssinian) you only need to do this in the Spring and Autumn shedding season. Guinea pigs like the attention, and it's fine to brush them more often, if you like.

Feeding

Every day, you should give the guinea pig as much hay as it will eat. Use oat, timothy, meadow, or clover hay. Some people use Alfalfa hay, while others argue that it can be unhealthy because of all the calcium in contains. Also, include some guinea pig compressed hay pellets, and fresh greens, vegetables, or fruit. Some of their favorite fresh foods are: grass, clover, romaine lettuce, apple, pear, watermelon, grapes, lemon, parsley, celery, and tomato. Not all guinea pigs like every kind of food. Don't forget to change the water daily.

Vitamins and Minerals

Most salt licks and salt wheels provide trace minerals needed by a guinea pig. Some owners add a liquid vitamin preparation to their pet's water or food every time they change it. It is important that the guinea pig have plenty of Vitamin C every day, either from these preparations or from fresh food.