Selwyn_Times: August 30, 2023

30 Selwyn Times Wednesday August 30 2023
PETS & PAWS
Caring for your guinea pig
Guinea pigs might sound like an easy ask in terms
of your child’s first pet but these are just a few things
that you need to know.
Should I have more than one guinea
pig?
A guinea pig can live alone, but ideally shouldn’t
because they are social animals and need the
companionship of other guinea pigs.
What foods can a guinea pig eat?
Guinea pigs should have fresh, washed leafy greens
or weeds each day, such as kale or broccoli, which
are excellent sources of Vitamin C. Guinea pigs don’t
naturally eat fruit or root vegetables, but you
can give them in small amounts as treats, such
as small pieces of carrot or an apple quarter.
How long do guinea pigs live for?
Usually four to eight years.
What makes guinea pigs happy?
They need exercise, mental stimulation,
environmental enrichment (e.g. toys, tunnels
etc), and the ability to express normal
behaviours, including social interaction with
other guinea pigs, walking, running, tunnelling,
exploring, playing, stretching horizontally,
retreating to a shelter and hiding, foraging,
chewing, gnawing, and jumping.
Do guinea pigs like to be held?
Guinea pigs often form strong bonds
with their human companions. However,
they can be flighty animals and will sometimes
run away from you, even if they’re used to being
picked up. They tolerate being picked up but are
unlikely to enjoy it.
What’s their ideal place to live?
Guinea pigs should have as large an enclosure
as possible, ideally with the right amount
of lined, covered space and soft grass hay to
provide cushioning. Sawdust or wood shavings
can cause respiratory issues and should be
avoided. Make sure to clean out the hutch
regularly and dispose of any waste.
How long should I keep my guinea
pig outside?
As a general rule of thumb, it’s recommended that
guinea pigs spend at least 1 hour outside of their
cage every day. However, if your guinea pig has
never been outside, start small and increase this time
gradually.
Do guinea pigs need a bath?
Guinea pigs are very fastidious about self grooming
and generally don’t need baths. You may clean them
with a damp washcloth and brush them with a soft
brush.
• For all your Glass and
Glazing requirements •
• All areas
covered •
• Pet door
specialists •
Halswell
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2017 LTD
Phone: 322 7999
Mobile: 021 CATDOOR (228 3667)
Email: halswellglass@actrix.co.nz
Website: www.halswellglass.co.nz
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