- Timothy hay is the best hay for all guinea pigs in general. They will happily eat it and play with it, and it's healthy for pigs of all ages. ...
- Alfalfa hay contains a lot of calcium, so is inappropriate for older pigs except as an occasional treat. ...
- Look for hay that is green and soft, as yellow and hard hay means it's straw.
- Hay can be purchased from pet stores, but it's usually very expensive and has sat a long time. ...
What foods can I Feed my guinea pig every day?
What Should I Feed My Guinea Pig Daily?
- Vegetables. Apart from an unlimited supply of timothy hay, grown-up guinea pigs need raw and fresh vegetables and fruits, rich in fiber and vitamin C.
- Fruits. Fruits shouldn’t be given too often since they have a much higher level of sugar and acid. ...
- Pellets. ...
- Things You Should Avoid Giving Your Guinea Pig. ...
What food do guinea pigs like best?
What do Guinea Pigs Like to Eat?
- Apple,
- Broccoli Spears,
- Orange,
- Pears,
- Strawberries,
- Papayas,
- Spinach,
- Romaine Lettuce,
- Artichokes,
- Bell Peppers ( Red & Green),
How often should I Feed my guinea pig?
[Feeding Chart & Guide]
- Vegetables High in Vitamin C for Guinea Pigs. All of the above vegetables are high in vitamin C, which is an essential vitamin for guinea pigs. ...
- Vegetables Low in Vitamin C for Guinea Pigs. ...
- Fruit High in Vitamin C for Guinea Pigs. ...
- Fruit Low in Vitamin C for Guinea Pigs. ...
- Food Not Good for Guinea Pigs. ...
- Guinea Pig Feeding Chart. ...
What fruits and veggies can I Feed my guinea pig?
- Broccoli
- Zucchini
- Pitted apricots
- Potatoes
- Cucumbers
- Carrots
- Dark green lettuce
- Squashes
- Beets
- Snow peas
What happens when guinea pigs get old?
Aging guinea pigs may develop some of the same ailments or characteristics as aging humans. These include cataracts, stroke, heart attacks, arthritis, dementia and graying (guinea pigs may develop gray fur around the nose and mouth). In the last 10 years, tumors are becoming more and more common in guinea pigs.
How do you know when a guinea pig is dying of old age?
Typical signs of a guinea pig about to die of old age includes: sleeping a lot, loss of vision and hearing, change in fur color, and weight loss. There will also be reduced mobility, lack of grooming, and loss of appetite.
Do guinea pigs get skinny when they get old?
Signs of aging appear earlier in some guinea pigs and later in others. For example, a senior guinea pig may lose muscle tone and weight. She may become less active (fewer popcorns and more naps) and stop using ramps.
Do old guinea pigs sleep more?
The reality is that a guinea pig achieves “senior pig” status when it starts to slow down doing everyday activities. An older guinea pig may also sleep more and will take longer to recover from illness or other health issues.
How can I help my dying guinea pig?
A dying guinea pig will become very weak and unable to feed or water himself as his death approaches. You can make his passing less uncomfortable by offering him water from a spoon, syringe, or water bottle. Blend or mix a guinea pig "smoothie" that contains hay, water and ground up pellets and feed it to him.
What is the most common cause of death in guinea pigs?
PneumoniaPneumonia. Pneumonia is actually the leading cause of death in Guinea pigs. It is generally caused by a bacterial infection. Some of the symptoms of pneumonia include wheezing, trouble breathing, discharge from the nose or mouth, weight loss, reddish eyes, and depression.
What is the oldest living guinea pig?
SnowballAccording to the Guiness Book of World Records, the oldest guinea pig known was 14 years and 10.5 months old and was named Snowball. The average life expectancy of guinea pigs is about 4 to 7 years.
How do you make an old guinea pig happy?
What Can I Do to Make My Guinea Pig Happy?Get Them a Friend. ... Provide A Balanced Diet with Guinea Pig Favorites. ... Give Them Snacks. ... Make Sure Their Cage Is Big Enough for Them. ... Keep Their Cage Clean. ... Spend Quality Time with Your Cavy. ... Challenge Them Physically and Mentally. ... Take Them Outside.
What is the average lifespan of a guinea pig?
4 – 8 yearsGuinea pig / Lifespan (In captivity)Guinea pigs live an average of five to seven years. This lifespan is longer than many other small pets such as hamsters, gerbils, mice or rats, all of whom only live up to a few years.
Do guinea pigs poop less when they get older?
As guinea pigs get older, they tend to poop a little less. This is because their digestive system slows down as they age and they can't process food as quickly. This also means that cavies poop less as they age. So, cavies poop a lot when you first get them (like for YEARS) and then – poof!
Why is my guinea pig skinny?
If the only thing you have noticed in your guinea pig is weight loss, this can be caused by many things. Visit your veterinarian as soon as possible. Causes of weight loss include dental problems, liver or kidney diseases, intestinal disease, endocrine disease, infection and toxins — just to name a few.
What does an old guinea pig look like?
1:253:10Signs Your Guinea Pig Is Getting Old - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipFood fur when a guinea pig gets older their fur becomes thinner. And sometimes they even gray aMoreFood fur when a guinea pig gets older their fur becomes thinner. And sometimes they even gray a little bit. Especially in the area around their face and legs they don't get bald.
How do I know if my guinea pig is in pain?
Signs of pain or discomfort:Grinding teeth.Reluctance to move.Shivers or quivers.Sits hunched, with hair spiky.Squealing or excessive noise.Not eating or drinking.Shallow, rapid breathing.
How do you humanely a guinea pig down?
To euthanize your pet guinea pig at home, two of the best ways to kill them quickly and humanely are by shooting them, breaking their neck, or suffocating them. Pithing will also do the trick, as it severs their spinal cord, but you need to be trained to do it properly.
Why is my guinea pig not moving but breathing?
A guinea pig may lie on his side when he's sick. In this case, he may not want to move, and other symptoms of illness may be evident. Signs of illness include lethargy, difficulty moving, heavy breathing, panting, runny nose, weepy eyes, diarrhea, vomiting or anything else that's not normal for your guinea pig.
How much does it cost to put a guinea pig down?
For the euthanasia of a small animal, like a bird or guinea pig, you can expect to spend around $50–100, with possible taxes and additional fees.
What do guinea pigs eat?
Guinea pigs rely on fresh vegetables and fruits for their daily needs of vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients. While leafy greens should comprise the main part of their daily intake of fresh produce, fruits are generally considered treats because of their high sugar contents.
What to use to keep guinea pigs clean?
Fresh, clean water. Guinea pigs need constant access to fresh, clean water. We recommend using water bottles made from glass because they’re easier to keep clean, but a small ceramic bowl could work too. Don’t forget to empty and refill daily, and keep the bottle clean at all times.
What is the best hay for guinea pigs?
While high-quality Timothy hay should make up at least 80% of your guinea pigs’ daily diet, fruits and vegetables are highly necessary to provide them with their much needed vitamins and other nutrients. As part of a healthy guinea pig diet, it is recommended to offer a mix of healthy fruits and vegetables on a daily basis.
Why do guinea pigs need Timothy hay?
The reason why Timothy hay is preferred, is because of its low calcium content. If you want to learn more about hay, check our article on the best types of hay for guinea pigs.
Can guinea pigs produce their own vitamin C?
According to this article from VCA Hospitals, authored by Laurie Hess (DVM) and Rick Axelson (DVM), guinea pigs cannot manufacture their own vitamin C. A lack of vitamin C makes them more prone to infections, skin problems and other diseases, which is why their diet must contain sufficient amounts of vitamin C.
Do guinea pigs eat vegetables?
Guinea pigs cannot hold themselves back, and they’ll eat whatever is offered. As they’re prone to weight problems, it’s your responsibility to keep their diet properly balanced. That means no excessive feeding of vegetables and fruits, the only thing they should have access to 24/7 is fresh water and hay.
What do guinea pigs eat?
Guinea Pig Diet – What and How Much to Feed? Guinea Pigs loves to eat in fact they live to eat. The daily cycle of a Guinea pig includes Eat, poop, sleep, and repeat. As they are herbivores, their diet should include high-quality plant-like Hay. They need to have food in their digestive system constantly to avoid health problems like Diarrhea.
Why is hay important for guinea pigs?
Hay prevents obesity, dental disease, diarrhea and boredom in guinea pigs that ’s why it is a vital part of their diet. It also provides fiber which helps guinea pigs to properly digest.
What is the best pellet for cavies?
Avoid pellets that have nuts and seeds in it. Choose those pellets which have been veterinarian-tested and approved. Alfalfa based pellets are best suited for young cavies as they are high in calcium, fat, and sugar. Timothy hay pellets are suitable for all cavies.
Is alfalfa hay good for guinea pigs?
That means it should be green with pliable stalks and free from foreign particles and fragrant. Note: Avoid alfalfa hay because it is mainly fed to young guinea pigs who are under the age of 4 months or nursing cavies. Alfalfa has a high amount of calcium that’s why it’s not good for a healthy adult cavy.
Do guinea pigs need pellets?
Always check if your guinea pig has left some food in the bowl or not. If yes, then you need to give them less of it and remove uneaten food. Pellets should be given in adequate quantity so that it doesn’t get wasted as stale pellets have very little vitamin C. And remember to clean their food bowl and water bottle regularly.
How to help guinea pigs fight illness?
Try adding a Vitamin C supplement to their diet. This can help your guinea pig fight off illnesses as they age. Speak with your veterinarian about adding this to your cavy’s diet. If your guinea pig is eating less in a single sitting, try breaking down larger meals into smaller, more frequent sittings.
What to do when guinea pigs are no longer able to live?
Know when to let go. When your guinea pig is no longer able to enjoy life, you need to discuss euthanasia with your vet. While it is a difficult decision, consider whether life for your pet is a joy or a drag. Try following the “Rule of 5 Good Things”. Make a list of the top 5 things your pet enjoys.
How to keep guinea pigs from getting heart attacks?
However, as cavies age or become frail, they can find bath time stressful which can lead to panic and even heart attack. Instead of baths, w ipe your guinea pig clean with vet-approved wipes or a warm, damp, cloth. Try distracting the guinea pig by giving them some fresh vegetables.
What happens when guinea pigs lose a companion?
Consider a companion for lonely guinea pigs. When senior guinea pigs lose a companion, they may suffer from loneliness. Changes in behavior include withdrawal, silence, changes in eating habits, and biting. Consider consulting your local shelter to find your guinea pig a new friend.
What to do if your guinea pig is bald?
When done, wrap your pet in a towel and pat them dry. Avoid using hairdryers and heating pads.
How to get cavies to get around?
Make their food and water more accessible. As cavies age, they tend to have difficulty getting around. Move their hay, food, and water to a place in their cage that is easily accessible to them. Snacks should not be kept on levels where they are required to jump, and hay should be kept in a bin on the floor versus hanging in a basket.
Why do guinea pigs drink less water?
However, many drink less than that because they get water from fresh vegetables such as cucumbers. Your cavy’s water intake will differ from others. If your guinea pig’s water intake increases drastically, take them to the vet for a check-up. This could be a sign of diabetes.
What do guinea pigs eat?
What to Feed Guinea Pigs. We’re going to go over the different kinds of foods your guinea pig can and cannot eat. The most essential food in the cavy diet is hay. In fact, 80% of their diet should be composed of hay—Timothy hay is usually best. Vegetables and herbs make up 10%-15% of their diet, and pellets about 5%-10%.
What vegetables are good for guinea pigs?
Cucumber. Zucchini. Broccoli (small amounts or they might become gassy) Celery leaves. Kale. Cilantro/coriander. Mustard greens. All of the above vegetables are high in vitamin C, which is an essential vitamin for guinea pigs.
Why are guinea pigs called pigs?
And then secondly, they are not related to pigs in any way. It is believed that they were named “pig” because of the cute little squealing noise they make that sounds somewhat piglike. Your guinea pig’s diet, like with any pet, is of the utmost importance. You want to be sure that you’re fulfilling your cavy’s daily dietary requirements and ...
How often should you fill a water bottle with water for rodents?
Water should be provided in water bottles designed for rodents, and they should have access to fresh water 24 hours a day. This means filling the bottle once a day with fresh water and always checking that the water bottle is working properly and that it hasn’t run out.
Can you give a cavy a lot of food?
You should avoid giving your cavy any food that will cause gas, such as cauliflower and cabbage. Iceberg lettuce can cause diarrhea, onions (and anything in the onion family) can lead to a blood disorder, garlic is toxic, and avocado is too high in fat.
How long do guinea pigs live?
The average lifespan for a guinea pig is about five to seven years. Many vets consider four-year-old guinea pigs to be approaching their golden years, but there is no hard and fast rule. It's almost impossible to gauge the age of an adult guinea pig after they are full grown.
Do guinea pigs stay in one spot longer?
Senior guinea pigs tend to stay in one spot longer, so be sure to spot clean daily and change the bedding more frequently, if needed. Long haired pigs may benefit from a trim, especially around the back end. Seniors seem to become less concerned with their self-cleaning beauty routine as time goes on.
Do guinea pigs have cysts?
Female guinea pigs are prone to ovarian cysts as they age. She may seem extra moody, mount her cagemates, lose hair on either side of the belly, and develop crusty nipples. Normally, spaying a guinea pig is the recommended course of action. However, not all seniors are ideal surgical patients.
Can guinea pigs lose weight?
A senior guinea pig may lose muscle tone and weight. She may become less active (fewer popcorns and more naps) and stop using ramps. An X-ray can confirm arthritis, often obvious in the knees, and other medical concerns may start to pop up, like dental problems.
What to Feed Guinea Pigs When Out of Food
You suddenly realize you are out of guinea pig food, and now you are scrambling to find alternatives. This can be a frightening situation for any guinea owner. However, there is no need to panic.
How Long Can Guinea Pigs Go Without Hay
In an ideal world, your guinea pig should never be without fresh timothy hay. It is recommended that guinea pigs do not go without hay for more than one day. However, sometimes these things happen. You may forget to buy hay, or your guinea pigs may go through it more quickly than you anticipated.
How Long Can Guinea Pigs Go When Out of Pellets?
Guinea pigs can go a surprisingly long time without pellets. This is because pellets are not necessarily the best source of nutrients for your piggy. This is why pellets should only make up around 20% of your guinea pig’s diet.
Seven Replacement Food to Feed Your Guinea Pigs When Out of Hay
While you must restock your guinea pigs with fresh hay as soon as possible, there are some healthy alternatives you can turn to in the meantime.
What Not to Feed Your Guinea Pig
If you run out of hay or pellets, it is important not to panic and feed your guinea pig, something that could make matters worse. The following foods should never be included in your guinea pig’s diet:
Conclusion
Guinea pigs cannot be without fresh hay or pellets for long. Ideally, your guinea pig should not be without these essential foods for more than 1-2 days. However, there are several alternatives to hay and pellets that you can provide for your piggy in the meantime.
What to put on guinea pig hocks?
Mats, carpets, layout blankets, or other soft surfaces in the enclosure of guinea pig and play area to relieve the pressure that it puts on their hocks can help in the healing process. Also, most of the time, you need to clean the soft things and these blankets to ensure that their wounds remain clean.
How long do guinea pigs live?
Signs of aging in guinea pigs. Guinea pigs can survive only for 5 to 8 years, in which when a guinea pig reaches 5 years of age, they are considered seniors. When guinea pigs enter in their senior years, then they come across with different signs of aging which are explained below:
What is a guinea pig's sore hock?
Bumblefoot (Pododermatitis) Bumblefoot (Pododermatitis), commonly known as sore hocks, is that kind of condition in which many old guinea pigs can be liable to get on their back legs. Mainly, this condition infects the bottom of their hocks, and their feet are just like the heels of a guinea pig.
Why do guinea pigs flop down?
Because the ears of guinea pig, instead of staying up, they automatically flop down, a guinea pig with their drooping ears are more likely to suffer from infections of the ear, narrowed ear canals, pain in ears, and an extra amount of the ear wax build-up.
How do you know if a guinea pig is losing its hearing?
If the ears of guinea pigs do not jerk in the direction of the noise or don’t react to the strange or loud sound , you will get to know that your guinea pig is losing their hearing. A guinea pig can be deeply distressed when losing the hearing, so you have to be more patient and gentle with their care than earlier.
What are the symptoms of arthritis in guinea pigs?
The signs of arthritis in guinea pigs include: Increase in-ear wax buildup.
Why do guinea pigs wear their teeth down?
So it is essential to give the toys, enough hay, or other roughage to your guinea pig throughout their life to wear down their teeth at a more accessible level. Also, this wear can help to avoid painful dental diseases from arising up later in their life.
What to feed guinea pigs at 3 weeks?
Fresh hay and water are essential foods in those early days. Baby guinea pigs require high protein, thus offer them pellets and dry alfalfa grass. Your baby guinea pigs will stop drinking mother’s milk once they are three weeks old. You can consider adding a small serving of fresh veggies at this stage.
How to feed a baby guinea pig?
Begin with bell peppers, cilantro, lettuce, and slowly transition to other veggies. Baby guinea pigs can munch on vegetables when they reach 4 weeks old, and their stomach gets stable enough to digest vegetables in small amounts. Fresh vegetables will also control the size of their teeth as their teeth keep growing.
What are the main foods that guinea pigs eat?
The three main foods of guinea pig’s diet are pellets, hay, and fresh vegetables. If we get to draw a chart of guinea pig’s diet, then hay would be written as the most important part followed by vegetables and pellets. That is because the digestive passage of guinea pigs is designed to absorb fiber found in dry grass.
How old do guinea pigs need to be to drink water?
Until baby guinea pigs turn 3 weeks old, they get hydration from their mothers. As they grow, baby guinea pigs need to drink more water as they eat lots of solid food. So drinking water becomes essential for them to be healthy. However, not all guinea pigs are able to drink from bottle at such an early age.
Why are my baby guinea pigs so energetic?
Baby guinea pigs will feel energetic at times, but they will require constant short naps. Due to the lack of a proper diet , you may find your guinea pigs lazier than normal. Observing a guinea pig’s poop discharge is a way to know about their health conditions and especially their digestive system.
How long does it take for a guinea pig to grow?
The first six months of your guinea pig’s life is crucial for their longterm health. In this primary stage of their growth, a guinea pig undergoes some physical changes continuously. Their diet plan must consider their growth.
Do guinea pigs sleep on hay?
This will help you to ease the transition of your guinea pigs to timothy hay as they grow up. Other than this, be sure that the cage of your guinea pigs is full of hay. They will sleep on hay, and generally, they will be surrounded by this. It also means that they will eliminate a lot of waste in their hay.
