American Guinea Pig Care Guide
Complete care guide covering grooming, exercise, nutrition, environment, and preventive healthcare for American Guinea Pig.
Daily Care Requirements
| Exercise Needs | Moderate - daily floor time; large enclosure essential (min 0.7 m² per pig) |
|---|---|
| Grooming Frequency | Low - short smooth coat; weekly brush; nail trims every 2-4 weeks |
| Annual Exam Focus | Dental (open-rooted teeth), vitamin C status, skin/coat, respiratory, weight |
Nutrition & Weight Management
| Obesity Risk | Medium |
|---|---|
| Ideal Body Condition | 3 |
Environment & Housing
| Temperature | 18-24°C (65-75°F); heat-sensitive above 27°C |
|---|---|
| Humidity | 40-60% |
| Diet Type | Unlimited timothy hay; vitamin C-fortified pellets; daily fresh vegetables (bell peppers, leafy greens); cannot synthesize own vitamin C |
Size & Physical Characteristics
| Adult Weight | 0.7–1.2 kg |
|---|---|
| Lifespan | 5–8 years |