Guinea Pig supplies

Guinea pigs are undeniably adorable and fascinating creatures. With their distinct personalities and unique needs, they deserve to be treated like the special animals they are. If you’re considering bringing a guinea pig into your home, it’s super important to provide them with the right supplies to ensure they live their best lives. Here’s a rundown of the must-have items for your pet guinea pig:

A Home

Guinea pigs need a safe and spacious enclosure to call their own. Unlike hamsters or gerbils, guinea pigs require more room to roam and explore. A plastic-bottomed cage with a solid base is ideal. Make sure it’s large enough to accommodate their natural behaviors, such as running, playing, and burrowing. Guinea pigs thrive in environments where they have plenty of space to exercise and socialize.

A Play Area

While their cage is their primary living space, it’s essential to provide guinea pigs with a designated play area outside their enclosure. Just like kids have their room and also a playground. This can be a separate playpen or a section of a room that’s guinea pig-proofed. Remove any potential dangers and ensure the area is free from wires, toxic plants, or other dangerous objects. Allow your guinea pig to explore and stretch their legs in a secure and supervised space. You know you did it right if they jump in the air, a move called ‘popcorning.’

Bedding

Guinea pigs love to nestle and burrow, so providing them with suitable bedding is crucial. Choose bedding that is safe, absorbent, and non-toxic. Avoid cedar or pine shavings as they can be harmful to their respiratory system (that’s how they breathe). Instead, opt for paper bedding, hay, or fleece liners (our preferred choice). Regularly clean and change the bedding to maintain a clean and odor-free environment for your furry friend.

Food

A well-balanced diet is essential for the overall health and well-being of your guinea pig. Provide them with a constant supply of fresh Timothy hay, which is needed for their digestive system. Additionally, offer a daily serving of high-quality guinea pig pellets to ensure they receive all the necessary nutrients.  Supplement their diet with fresh vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and leafy greens. Remember to introduce new foods gradually and avoid feeding them foods that are toxic to guinea pigs, such as chocolate, onions, and garlic.

Water

Just like any other living creature, guinea pigs need access to clean and fresh water at all times. Use a water bottle with a sipper tube attached to their cage, so it is easily accessible and regularly refilled. Check the water bottle daily to make sure it is working correctly and doesn’t get clogged. Or you can use a water bowl, just make sure to clean it daily.

Toys

Guinea pigs are intelligent and curious animals that require mental stimulation. Provide them with a variety of toys to keep them entertained and engaged. Safe chew toys, tunnels, and hideaways are great options. Avoid small plastic toys that could be ingested and cause harm. Rotate their toys regularly to prevent boredom and ensure they have a stimulating environment.

Love

While not a physical item, love and attention are essential for the well-being of your guinea pig. Guinea pigs are social animals that thrive on interaction and companionship. Spend time with them daily, gently handling and petting them, and consider adopting a pair to provide each other with company. Guinea pigs will show their appreciation for your love and care with their endearing squeaks and purrs.

A Million Dollars

Okay, let’s be honest here - a million dollars is not a necessary supply for your guinea pig. But investing in their well-being and providing them with the right environment, nutrition, and care is priceless. By meeting their needs and showering them with love, you’ll have a happy and healthy guinea pig companion by your side.