Small animal special | PETS
http://www.petsmagazine.com.au 35
their enclosure to keep them happily chewing.
Nobody likes a trip to the dentist, not even
guinea pigs.
Herd
Cavies are herd animals, so it’s better if you
have more than one, and ideally they should
be of the same sex. “Boars are happy with
other boars as long as there are no females
around. Pairs or groups are equally as good,”
Nikki says.
When it comes to new introductions, forget
flowers and small talk. Lavender is what you
need for guinea pigs. “I often have four sows
together. When introducing a new individual,
I spray her with lavender as lavender has a
calming effect,” Nikki says.
There will be a brief period of purring and
whirring as the pecking order is re-established,
but the pack soon settles down.
Health
Guinea pigs need vitamin C every day, which
they get by eating vegetables. Good sources
are parsley, capsicum, Chinese veg and kale.
Nikki says a chaff-based mix with not too many
seeds is also a good food option, as well as
fresh water and a constant supply of hay for
teeth grinding. “You can also use twigs from
fruit trees or those abrasive treats pet shops
sell,” says the cavy connoisseur.
In summer, make sure their water is always
cool as they won’t drink it warm. A frozen brick
wrapped in a tea towel or soaking hessian,
placed over the cage behind a fan, can also
help keep them nice and cool.Happ i ness
Nikki says that one way to keep your guinea
pig happy is to give it a friend. They’re herd
animals so they definitely love company.Guinea pigs love eating the leftover vegies from the kitchen!