Guinea pig, also called ‘cavies’ are social animals who are best kept with the company of another friendly guinea pig. They have a small, rounded body with short legs and no tail. They are very active animals that need plenty of exercise; they can be awake up to 20 hours per day, only sleeping for a short amount of time.
They are clever animals who have a well developed sense of hearing and smell, they see partial colour and can see above and behind themselves. Guinea pigs have a wide range of vocalisations which mean different things. For example, they can make a short ‘chutt’ or ‘putt’ sound, when they become excited (e.g. when expecting food).
They respond best to handling from an early age, as it helps them to learn that humans are friends and companions. They can live both indoors and outdoors, but if they live indoors they see humans as important companions. They live between 5-6 years and can make great domestic pets.
Guinea pigs teeth grow constantly, which means they need a high fibre diet of grass and hay. This helps to wear their teeth down as both grass and hay are abrasive. They require Vitamin C in their diet; as they lack the enzyme that produces it and can only store it in their body for short periods. They also enjoy eating carrots and fruit such as apples, as occasional treats, but they must not be fed these regularly.
Guinea pigs, Sylvia, Pam and Laura are all quite shy and nervous. But right amount of handling and love they will gain more confidence. They would prefer to remain together on their next adventure at their forever home; but could also go separately with another friendly guinea pig.
If you are interested please click here or visit the centre to find out which Guinea Pigs we have available for rehoming.
No comments:
Post a Comment