Guinea pigs are wonderful pets that many kids enjoy. These adorable little furballs aren’t just cute and cuddly – they’re also full of surprises! Did you know that guinea pigs can jump for joy, have superhero hearing, and come in a range of colors?
Whether you have a guinea pig as a pet or just love learning about animals, these facts are fun and great for kids. So, grab your magnifying glass and get ready to uncover the squeaky secrets of these potato-shaped pals!
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Where are Guinea Pigs from?
Guinea pigs are native to South America. They originated in the Andes region, particularly around Peru. Early on, people domesticated them for food as early as 5000 B.C.
These cute little rodents were also part of cultural practices. They served in religious ceremonies and traditional medicine. This long history makes them special animals in many ways. Today, they are beloved pets worldwide, cherished for their friendly nature.
What is the scientific name for a guinea pig?
The scientific name for a guinea pig is Cavia porcellus.
What are some other names for guinea pigs?
Guinea pigs are known by a few different names and nicknames such as:
- Cavy or Cavies
- Domestic cavy: This term is used to distinguish pet guinea pigs from their wild relatives.
- Ginny pig: An older variation of the name, used as early as 1653.
- Cuy: This name is used in parts of South America, particularly in Peru.
Plus some more fun names:
- Pocket pig: A cute nickname referring to their small size.
- Piggy: A fun nickname
- G-pig: A shortened version of guinea pig.
- Squeaker: A playful name based on the sounds they make
You might also hear people refer to their guinea pigs as being potatoes. Due to their shape and this is a cute fun reference.
Where does the name Guinea Pig Come from?
Guinea pigs aren’t pigs, and they aren’t from Guinea, but somehow they ended up with the name “Guinea pig”.
- Some people think they were called Guinea pigs because they made squeaky noises that sounded like “gwee-nee, gwee-nee!”
- Others believe they might have cost a “guinea” when they first arrived in England. A guinea is a coin that was used in Britain at the time. But they were called guinea pigs for at least 100 years before, so this theroy is easily debunked.
- Some people believe it’s because of a confusion of where they came from, as the animals were transported through ports in either Guiana in South America or Guinea in Africa.
- It might also be because South America was quite an unknown area at the time and “Guinea” was often used in English to refer to any far-off, unknown country.
Species and Breeds
There are many breeds of guinea pigs, each with its unique features. Some popular breeds include:
- American Guinea Pig: This breed has a smooth coat and is very friendly.
- Abyssinian Guinea Pig: Known for its rosettes, this breed is energetic and playful.
- Peruvian Guinea Pig: This breed has long, flowing fur and needs regular grooming.
Guinea Pigs have Super Hearing
Guinea pigs have amazing ears! They can hear sounds up to 46,000 Hz, which is way better than humans. We can only hear up to about 20,000 Hz. It’s like they have superhero hearing
Guinea pigs are our Ancient friends
Guinea pigs have been our companions for a very long time. They were first domesticated around 5000 B.C. That’s over 7000 years ago!
Guinea Pigs Can’t produce Vitamin C
Guinea pigs are one of the few animals (besides humans and some primates) that can’t make their own vitamin C. They need to get it from their food, just like us!
They need to be given vegetables such as bell peppers every day that contains a high amount of Vitamin C to keep your piggys healthy. You can also give them small amounts of orange (1-2 piece at most a week), for a lil extra boost to their vitamin C levels.
How do guinea pigs communicate?
Guinea pigs thrive on social interaction. They are herd animals, meaning they enjoy being with others of their kind. You might notice that they often bond closely with one another or even with you.
To communicate, they use a variety of sounds:
- Purring: This can show contentment or happiness.
- Whining: This often signals discomfort or a need for attention.
- Popcorning: A joyful movement where they jump and twist in the air.
They also express themselves through body language. When they are happy, they might fluff up their fur or nuzzle against each other.
What do guinea pigs like to do?
Guinea pigs are quite active and have specific daily habits. They love to explore and often spend time hiding in cozy spots. Providing them with places to burrow or hide makes them feel secure.
They like to chew on hay, pellets, and fresh vegetables. This not only keeps them busy but also supports their dental health.
Sleep is vital for them too. Guinea pigs usually take several short naps throughout the day. They tend to be most active in the early morning and late evening.
Creating a stimulating environment keeps them happy and healthy. Consider adding toys, tunnels, and hiding spaces to their cage for interactive fun.
What do guinea pigs weigh?
A healthy adult guinea pig typically weighs between 700 and 1200 grams.
What type of bedding do guinea pigs like?
They like soft bedding like paper-based bedding, fleece or bath mats. They should never be put on cedar or pine shavings, as they can harm the guinea pig.
What do guinea pigs eat?
Your guinea pig needs a balanced diet to stay healthy. This diet should include:
- Hay: Timothy hay is great for adult guinea pigs. It provides fiber for digestion.
- Fresh Vegetables: Leafy greens and bell peppers are perfect. They also give essential vitamins.
- Pellets: Specific guinea pig pellets should be a part of their meals. Look for ones with added Vitamin C, since they cannot produce it themselves.
- Limited Fruits: Fruits like apples, watermelon or strawberries can be given as treats, but only in small amounts.
Avoid giving them too much alfalfa hay, as it’s higher in protein and should only be for young or pregnant guinea pigs.
What are baby guinea pigs called?
Baby guinea pigs are called pups.
What are male and female guinea pigs called?
Male guinea pigs are called boars, and female guinea pigs are called sows.
How much do baby guinea pigs weigh?
Baby guinea pigs, are small, weighing around 3 to 3.5 ounces at birth but they’re born with fur and have open eyes.
How Long is a guinea pigs pregnancy?
Once pregnant, a female guinea pig has a pregnancy that lasts about 63 to 68 days. She can have up to 6 pups per litter, but they usually have 2 to 4 babies.
Guinea Pigs sleep with their eyes open
Guinea pigs don’t fully close their eyes when they sleep. Instead, they often sleep with their eyes half-open. It’s like they’re trying to watch TV and nap at the same time!
How Long Do Guinea Pigs live?
Guinea pigs typically live for 5 to 7 years in captivity. But with excellent care, some can live even longer, sometimes exceeding 8 years.
Do Guinea Pigs Have Tails?
Guinea pigs don’t have tails, but they do have seven tailbones! But these are fused together into their pelvis so they don’t actually have a tail.
How many toes does a guinea pig have?
Guinea pigs have four toes on each front foot and three on each back foot. This allows them to move easily while exploring.
Can guinea Pigs Eat Meat?
Nope, guinea pigs are herbivores so they don’t eat any animal products.
How long does a guinea pigs hair grow?
Some guinea pig breeds, like the Peruvian, can grow hair up to 20 inches long! That’s longer than many people’s hair. These guinea pigs need regular grooming and their hair to cut to avoid getting into a tangled knotty mess.
How are baby guinea pigs born and cared for?
Baby guinea pigs, or pups, are born fully furred and with their eyes open. The mother cares for them, keeping them warm and nursing them. Pups can eat solid food within a week but stay with their mother for about three weeks before being weaned.
Are guinea Pigs Nocturnal?
Nope! Guinea pigs are not nocturnal. They’re what’s called crepuscular, which is where they’re active around dusk and dawn.
How many teeth does a guinea pig have?
They have two types: incisors in the front and molars at the back.
Both types grow continuously throughout their lives, so they need plenty of hay and chewable items to keep their teeth in check.
What Colors Do Guinea Pigs Come in?
Guinea pigs come in all sorts of colors and patterns, from pure white to mixes of brown, black, and orange. Some even have cool swirls in their fur called rosettes!
Can guinea pigs learn tricks?
Yes, guinea pigs can learn tricks! While they may not be as easily trainable as dogs, they are intelligent and can learn a variety of simple commands and behaviors with patience and positive reinforcement. Using treats as rewards is a highly effective method, as guinea pigs are motivated by food.
You could try teaching guinea pigs these tricks:
- Coming when called: By associating a specific sound or word with a treat, you can teach your guinea pig to come to you.
- Standing up: Luring them with a treat held above their head can encourage them to stand on their hind legs.
- Jumping through hoops: With small hoops and gradual training, guinea pigs can learn to jump through hoops for a treat.
- Ringing a bell: By associating the action of ringing a bell with a treat, you can teach them to ring a bell when they want something.
- Spinning: Moving a treat in a circle around them can teach them to spin in a full circle.
Do Guinea Pigs Like To hide?
Yes, they do. Guinea pigs are prey animals, so they feel more secure when they’re hidden. They love to explore and burrow, so providing them with tunnels, hidey-holes, and cozy bedding makes them feel safe.
Hope you found this list of facts interesting. They’re a great way to help teach your kids about guinea pigs. Feel free to download and print the facts off to show to your kids, or to use them in class.
