Guinea Pig Mania

I did something very strange and unexpected one Tuesday. For no reason whatsoever, and without warning, I brought home two guinea pigs. Now, I did this in a way that is not considered politically correct: I bought them from a (gulp) pet store. (Some Guinea Pig fans say you MUST purchase them from a breeder.) But my kids were flabbergasted. And thrilled. They gathered around me, squealing with delight as these two round little bundles with bright eyes stared up at them. “Can I hold one?” “I want to hold one too!” “I’m next!” “No, me!”

We caught guinea pig mania, and I warn you, it’s contagious. There is just something about these furry guys that is addicting and tons of fun. (We now have seven and love them all!)

Guinea pigs are not related to pigs, and they are not from New Guinea. So their name is a bit misplaced. Guinea pigs are rodents that come from central South America. Apparently, hundreds of years ago when they first became novel “pets” they were shipped from boats that stopped in New Guinea. And they look a little “piggish” and have a funny squeal. So somehow “Guinea Pigs” stuck.

Here’s why, in my view, guinea pigs make great pets:

• They do not roam freely in your house or yard (unless you let them) like a cat or dog.
• They are soft and cuddly.
• They get about the size of a small cat, but are more roly-poly and less agile.
• They are musical.
• They are easier to handle than hamsters and mice, because they are larger. Hamsters and mice tend to scamper more, bite more, and escape from their cages. Also, a loose hamster or mouse is extremely difficult to catch.
• They will sit quietly in your lap while you watch T.V., but also are active and speedy.
• You can set up their cages with feeders, so they don’t require lots of maintenance.
• It’s rare for a guinea pig to bite, unless it is hurt or mishandled.
• You can leave them as long as two days without worrying about putting them in someone else’s care.
• You can construct your own inexpensive, simple and roomy cage right at home! (More about this in another blog.)
• Guinea pigs can live as long as eight years, but typically more like five.
• They come in every color you can imagine, and in every hair length and type: short and fuzzy, long and silky, curly, Einstein-wild, spikey, you name it.
• They are hilarious to watch and fun to play with.

Here are some things to consider before purchasing one:

1. Guinea Pigs do much better in pairs. (Same sex, unless you want a million of them.) They are happier, friendlier pets if they have a companion. Having two is hardly any more work or cost.
2. If you have hay allergies, you may want to reconsider. Guinea pigs require a handful of hay a day, which you’ll be handling.
3. If you have a cat, you can still own a guinea pig, but you’ll need an enclosed cage.
4. Guinea pigs chirp and sing, so you’ll want to keep the cage in a place where you won’t be kept awake at night. Also, avoid children’s bedrooms. The constant exposure, all night long, can create allergies where none existed. Guinea pigs should be kept in a location where you will be able to easily spot if their water level or food level is getting low. (A back basement room where no one ever goes is not a good idea.)

I will write more about guinea pig care and cages in future blogs. Catch the mania!