Guinea pigs can make great pets - they're not too big, they don't bite and are generally very calm and friendly: perfect for those who don't want the responsibility of a dog or a cat. But they still need a good amount of space and certain other supplies before you take them home. Just use this article as a guide to what you can expect from your new pet!

Gathering Your Supplies

Before you buy a new pet guinea pig, make sure that you understand just what care its going to need. The great news is that these make relatively inexpensive pets, but youll still be making a long term commitment (most guinea pigs live between 5 and 7 years). The basics youll need include food, a water bottle, a chew toy, a spacious cage (see below), bedding and a covered sleeping area.

Making Your Pet Guinea Pig Part of The Family

If you give your guinea pig the comfortable home it deserves then it won't try to escape. It's going to need space to move around in, and guinea pigs also generally prefer company. When it comes to just how much space they will need, it's a good idea to have at least 2 square feet per animal. That way, you'll make sure they're a really cared-for part of the family.

Guinea pigs will also need the space to hide away - especially if you have more than one. Give them a covered area to sleep and hide and they'll be happy.

Getting Used to Your New Pet

Guinea pigs have always been famous for how easily they scare - but this doesn't mean it will be impossible to form a bond. All it means is that you should try to appear friendly to them at all times. For example, when you want to watch them, make sure you kneel and don't lean over the cage.

To build a bond with your new pet, gently start to pet them. It might take a little while, but when they do get used to you they are extremely friendly animals. Eventually you'll be able to pick them up and cuddle them, but just make sure to support their whole bodies and hold them gently - they're very small and delicate creatures.

Guinea pigs won't bite, which makes them great creatures to get close to. Just remember that it can take time, but once you have that bond it will never be broken!

Terri has been the proud owner of pet guinea pigs for years. Take the absolute best care of your pet guinea pig by visiting her guinea pig blog for more tips, reviews, and care information. You'll be able to find lots of free tips, including how to decipher that guinea pig language, as well as a guide to buying guinea pig cages.

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Written by Nic Christy using tags: advice, animal, children, family, Food, guinea pig, health, Home, nature, pet, Pets, products, wild