Guinea Pig Habitat

Guinea pigs are not pigs, but, rodents, that are commonly known as cavies. These animals were once popular for their role in scientific research, but, are now one of the common pets in many parts of the world. The domestication of guinea pigs is traced back to 5000 B.C. By the sixteenth century, these animals became very popular as pets and many breeds were developed and now we have many types of guinea pigs, that differ in coat colors and color combinations. Apart from being docile in nature, it is easy to take care of these animals, as compared to some other pets. However, special care is needed as far as their diet and habitat is concerned.

Guinea Pig Habitat in the Wild

You cannot find the domesticated guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus) in the wild, as they might have descended from other related species. Some of the related species like Cavia aperea, Cavia fulgida and Cavia tschudii, can be seen in some parts of South America. Some other species are found in the wild, but, it is suggested that they are actually domesticated guinea pigs, that are introduced to the wild, at a later stage. Anyway, such wild ones are found in groups and each group have numerous males, females and young ones. In the wild, they roam around in groups, particularly during dawn and dusk, so as to avoid predators. They feed mainly on grass and some plants. Guinea pig habitat in the wild includes crevices and tunnels among thick vegetation and the burrows of other animals. Even though, wild guinea pigs and the domesticated ones are different species, there is no drastic differences as far as their requirements are concerned.

Pet Guinea Pig Habitat

There are different kinds of pets like cats, dogs, lizards, hamsters, frogs and fish. The requirements of each pet will be different and the same applies to guinea pigs too. One of the most important requirements of this animal is a perfect habitat. They like to live in groups and the habitat provided by you must have enough space for them. Most of the ready-made cages are found to be small for guinea pigs. So, search for a large one or build one on your own. According to experts, an area 7.5 square feet per individual is required for their healthy growth. But, it is always better to provide at least a 7.5 square feet cage (30" x 36") for a single guinea pig. For two, a 10.5 square feet cage (30" x 50") is preferable. If there are three animals, then, go for a 13 square feet cage with a measurement of 30" x 62". Likewise, you have to increase the size as per the number of guinea pigs. It is always better to go for bigger sizes, as these animals need space.

• You can make the cage walls out of square grids, but, a solid bottom is recommended, as wire mesh floors can harm the legs of your pets.
• Once you put together the square grids and form the four walls, you can either keep the top open or covered. If there are any other house pets, then, it will be better to cover the top.
• The cage must have a solid bottom, which can be covered with aspen, hardwood shavings or grass hay. You may also provide with separate covered sleeping quarters, if there is more than one guinea pig.
• Another important requirement of a guinea pig habitat is the adequate play area with enough toys and other stuff. They have the habit of hiding, so, you can provide them with some grass huts, wooden logs and plastic houses.
• You have to keep food dish and water bottle inside the cage. The water bottle must have a capacity of eight ounces. If there are two guinea pigs, you may either keep two bottles or use one with double capacity. Food dishes can be either plastic or ceramic and must be shallow and wide-bottomed.

If you are interested in creating a guinea pig habitat, seek the opinion of those, who have experience in it and conduct a thorough research, before starting the venture. After all, it is the well-being of the pet, that is most counted.