Document type: Scientific review published in Veterinary Records
Author: Alison Wills
Summary: According to statistics, there are an estimated 0.4 million guinea pigs in the United Kingdom. With the publication of a study investigating the health and welfare of these animals in the United Kingdom, the VetRecord reminds us of several important points about their breeding. With regard to diet, particular attention must be paid to the presence of sufficient hay to allow tooth wear and thus avoid problems.
An adequate intake of vitamin C is also essential to prevent scurvy. Foods containing vitamin C supplements should be avoided as there is a risk that the vitamin will oxidise once the sachet has been opened. Conversely, too much access to calcium-rich green vegetables can be a predisposing factor for urolithiasis. On a social level, the presence of a conspecific is necessary and helps to limit stress which has been implicated in many diseases, especially respiratory diseases. Using a rabbit as a companion is not recommended as this species does not exhibit the same social behaviours. Rabbits can be a vector for diseases transmissible to guinea pigs or may simply attack them. In terms of habitat, the optimal temperature for this species is between 8 and 26°C, so it is preferable to house them indoors. Despite the lack of annual vaccinations, regular check-ups are advisable, as owners may not be able to recognise warning signs, especially given that guinea pigs are prey. Symptoms of disease appear only very late, when the animal's health has already deteriorated significantly.
