Tips for Bathing a Guinea Pig

After spending the day rooting around in bedding, climbing in and out of a litter pan and nibbling on juicy vegetables, a guinea pig can get dirty. Bathing your small animal once every few months will reduce build-up of fecal matter on its feet, keep its fur clean and remove food debris from the pet's face.

I use the following methods to keep my pet guinea pig Elvis clean and happy.

Preparing for a Bath
Since small animal skin and fur differs from humans, never use your shampoo on a small animal. Using a shampoo formulated for small animals allows essential oils to remain in the pet's fur and will not burn the pet's eyes. Shampoos formulated for rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters or ferrets are safe to use when bathing your guinea pig.

After scrubbing a bathroom or kitchen sink with a natural disinfectant, rinse it several times. Once any odor from the cleanser dissipates, close the drain trap and lay a hand towel in the bottom of the sink to provide traction for your pet's feet.

Bathing the Guinea Pig
Place your pet in the sink and slowly add warm water to a depth of 1-inch. Allow the pet's feet to soak while scooping cups of the warm water over the guinea pig's back. Work the water through the pet's fur working from the tail towards the guinea pig's face.

Add a jelly bean-size dab of pet shampoo to the palm of your hand. Work the shampoo into a lather and gently massage it into the pet's fur. Avoid lathering the pet's face. While the shampoo soaks, use a moistened cotton ball or wash cloth to clean the guinea pig's face. Check the pet's nostrils and ears for food or bedding. Gently clear away the debris.

Move the towel to the side, open the drain and allow the soiled water to drain. Turn the faucet on with a slow stream of warm water. Fill a cup and carefully pour the warm water over the guinea pig to rinse the shampoo from its fur. Continue to rinse the pet until no suds are visible. After the bath, sanitize the sink again.

Drying Your Guinea Pig
Guinea pigs have a tendency to get chilly. As soon as the bath is complete, wrap the pet in a dry, absorbent towel. Gently rub the guinea pig to remove excessive moisture. Allow the pet to air dry in a warm area, such as in a towel on your lap. Return the pet to its cage when its fur and skin feel dry.

Related Articles:
Hamster Dental Health
Benefits and Dangers of Kissing Pets
How to Choose a Pet Name

Source:
Personal Experience
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