How to Care for Your Guinea Pig Pet

Guinea pigs are often requested by kids to have in the home. They are kid-friendly as they tend not to be biters or to claw you. They may make a squealing noise though that can be a bit jolting! You should warn your kids about the squealing noise so they don't get scared or alarmed.

Some potential problems to be aware of include:

A) Vitamin C deficiency in you guinea pig pet can occur. Some symptoms of Vitamin C deficiency include sore joints, bleeding bums and poor bone development.

B) Certain conditions can deteriorate the vitamin C that is in their food which include lighting and temperature factors. Also try to keep the pellets away from a damp area.

C) Guinea Pigs enjoy chewing and you want to be sure that there are not toxic items in their cages (also do NOT use aquariums for housing them).

D) Bacteria can grow on their water bottle so be sure to clean that daily. This is something easy to overlook. If your kids are taking care of this part of your pet's care, you'll need to help them find a time of day that they will change the water bottle and to help them learn to be disciplined about this.

E) The average life span of a guinea pig is five to seven years so be aware this can be an emotional loss for a child that has grown attached to his or her pet. Depending on your child's age this can be a difficult situation to adjust to.

F) Guinea Pigs need exercise just like humans to maintain their health so encurage that and give them a little running time. This will be a fun activity for your kids too.

G) Some guinea pigs can get what is called "pea eye" . This means you can see theiwhite conjunctiva. Signs can include crusts around the eye, and inflammation as well as tearing of the eyes.

H) Potato skins can have oxalic acid in high quantities and it is best to avoid this for their diet.

Guinea pigs are wonderful pets and deserve loving care to blossom and live an optimal life. They can also be a nice way your kids will develop their nuturing side as well as learn responsibility. They are growing in popularity as a pet. If your family does a lot of travelling try to think out how your guinea pig will be cared for during your vacations and trips.