Getting any kind of pet should be an action taken with serious thought. Guinea pigs need a lot of time, care and space. Will you have enough time to put aside each day for bonding with your cavy? You also need to consider the fact whether you have the space for a large cage, an area where you can let them have free time and if you can afford to keep them. As far as who can own them, guinea pigs are great for any age. If they are to be purchased mainly for the interest of children remember the fact that some children 'go off' their pets because they didn't perceive in the first place the amount of hard work they needed to put in. In these cases the parents end up being the ones left to clean out the cage.

How many cavies should I get?

Guinea pigs should really have at least one friend to live with as they are social animals. If they live in a room with no other cavy contact they can be withdrawn and quiet. For happier pigs two cavies are best.

Should i choose male or female guinea pigs?

Personality-wise, males and females have rarely a different character. Both sexes are active, talkative and easy to handle, and both also have their moods. In the way of cleaning, males need more attention. Males get a dirty grease gland which needs cleaning about every few months and they also tend to drag their bottoms along the floor marking with their scent. In their latter years some males are prone to getting anal impaction whereby their bottom muscles have difficulty in excreting.

Where should I get a cavy from?

Try - 1. Visiting local guinea pig rescues and sanctuaries – any guinea pig open to rehoming should be clear of any infections or illnesses from their previous home life – any outstanding problem will be brought to light, if unsure ask.

2. Checking out local press for unwanted pets.

Beware of pet shops - remember they are not there for the welfare of animals but for money. Many pet shops have been proven to be inhumane, infected and their shop assistants unknowledgeable. Always thoroughly examine pig for good health and if in doubt, avoid the pet shop altogether.

How do I choose one?

Look for signs of good health – check eyes, ears, mouths, bottoms, hair and feet. A healthy pig is recognised by being alert, eyes are clear from sticky or runny residues, ears are clean from excess wax, mouths do not drool, bottoms are clean and functioning properly, hair is clean and glossy and feet are free from swellings with tidily trimmed claws. Short hair cavies are easier breeds to maintain as long haired varieties require daily grooming and regular trimming.

How do I transport them?

Carry them home in either a specially built pet carrier or a strong cardboard box. Line it with newspaper, add a little hay and a piece of cucumber or other wet vegetable or fruit to substitute it’s water bottle.

Veterinary Charges

Be aware that even though it is relatively cheap to purchase a cavy, it is not when you find yourself in the position to need to take your cavy to a vet. You must be prepared for this at all times and may I point out that this can be expensive. For an example, once when one of my guineas became seriously ill I had to pay out £20 for the call out charge alone, all because it was unlucky to happen on a Sunday when the vets are not open. Another quote for a normal call out charge recently was £40. This is an expense in itself and even then the treatment for your cavy may turn out to be just as costly.

It is important that guinea pigs receive the treatment when they need it because, like us, they deserve good health. If you consent your vet to give your cavy treatment, and you then find you cannot afford the fees, some vets may let you pay later. This can make it easier to care for your cavy and can give you peace of mind that you're doing the best for him. Also, the PDSA (People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals) is a charity based veterinary practice run solely by donations, which offers free consultations and treatment to those on certain state benefits.

A bad owner is an owner who refuses treatment and good health for his/her cavy all because of the 'expense'. Only buy a guinea pig when you are certain that you are prepared for this matter.