10 Surprising Ways a Pet Guinea Pig Will Change Your Life

Thinking about adopting a new little buddy? Click here to learn how a pet guinea pig can change your life for the better! Where do Guinea Pigs come from? Did you say Guinea? You can be forgiven for thinking that but they are actually from South America. The Andes in fact. Here is another interesting fact. Guinea Pigs are referred to by professionals in the business as Cavies. Why? the answer is connected to their Latin name Cavia Porcellus.  Keeping Guinea Pigs is not new. If you thought man had an ancient relationship with dogs, then consider Guinea Pigs. The Incas domesticated them over 3000 years ago and kept them as pets. Ever since it has become clear to countless people that Guinea Pigs make great pets. They are a unique little creature that is full of surprises. In fact, here are 10 surprising ways a pet Guinea Pig will change your life. Are you ready?

1. Its All About Personality

Just because two things look the same does mean they are the same. That is true of twins and it most certainly is true of Guinea Pigs. They have lots of personality.  Each Guinea Pig is different. Some are bold and others are timid. Before you choose make sure you get to spend a little time with them so you can get a feel for their personality type.

2. Make Little’ns Happy

Children love Guinea Pigs and as a general rule Guinea Pigs love children. They can be handled and are more robust than some small pets so you don’t have to worry about them too much.

3. Snap Crackle and Pop

This doesn’t mean you should put them in a bowl and pour milk over them. Guinea Pigs make a sort of popping noise referred to as popcorning. This happens when they are happy and excited. Cool!

4. Good Value

That may seem an odd thing to say but the reality is that many small pets only live for a few years. You invest time, money and love and then they die far too quickly. Of course, we never want our pets to die but we do accept the reality of nature. Still, it is good if your pet will live for many years so that you can develop a lasting relationship. Guinea Pigs will live about 10 years. If your Guinea Pig is sick, how will you know? Check out the answer here.

5. Good Health to You

No animal is impervious to sickness. Yet, the Guinea Pig as a general rule enjoys very good health. They are tough little creatures. This is good news for you as it means less or no visits to the vet. No vet bills and no expensive medication. Plus it means YOU will enjoy better health with less worry!

6. They Are Purrrfect

I’ve already mentioned popcorning but would you believe they also purr. This is a gentle and endearing sound that Guinea Pigs make when they are contented and happy. If you eventually own a Guinea Pig it will give you pleasure to hear them making this sound when in your company. You will want to make sure your Guinea Pig has a lovely comfortable bed so check out some suggestions here.

7. Hair Stylists

The variety of hair lengths and colors would make any hair stylist proud. Before you choose your Guinea Pig, make sure you are familiar with the different types you can buy. You would be amazed at the variety. In fact, some are even hairless. It seems there are 10 basic color types found amongst 13 distinct breeds. 

8. Not Jealous of Other Pets

Whenever you buy a new pet you want to make sure it will blend into the household as best possible. That is especially true of an animal with sharp teeth. If you have dogs and cats perhaps you are worried your Guinea Pig will end up on the menu for them. Don’t over worry. As a rule, they socialize very well with other animals. That includes dogs and cats. Although you will need to supervise the introductions carefully.

9. Indoors or Outdoors – You Choose

Guinea Pigs are so easy to keep and do not have any special needs as such so you can choose to keep them indoors or outdoors. You will, of course, need to make sure they always have plenty of water and fresh hay. Other than that they are all set. If you decide to keep them outdoors you will enjoy reading this article here with tips for pet owners during the cold weather.

10. They are Tricky

Did you know that Guinea Pigs are very intelligent? They will learn who you are and distinguish your presence. When you take them out and play with them you can teach them tricks. Getting your Guinea Pig to perform for your friends will amaze them. Your Guinea Pig will enjoy this as well as it challenges them mentally and gives them a sort of satisfaction just like other pets that perform tricks. Guinea pig toys are a great way to start to interact with your Guinea Pig. You can also buy them chews to help keep them entertained and occupied.

Pet Guinea Pig? Yes Please

How do you feel about Guinea Pigs now? They make wonderful pets and are very easy to care for and as you have seen in this article they are full of charming surprises. Most people want to interact with their pets, it is part of the fun. You may have been surprised that you can fully interact with a Guinea Pig in a meaningful and enjoyable way. So what are you going to call your pet Guinea Pig? If you have any questions, please get in touch here.