Guinea, << GIHN ee, >> pig is the name of a group of furry South American mammals. Scientists have used these animals in experiments that have led to the development of many drugs. Guinea pigs also have been used in research in the fields of behavior, heredity, and nutrition. Many people keep guinea pigs as pets because the animals rarely bite and are easy to care for.
Guinea pigs are not really pigs. They belong to a group of rodents (gnawing mammals) called cavies. Guinea pigs measure from 10 to 14 inches (25 to 36 centimeters) long and weigh from 2 to 3 pounds (0.9 to 1.4 kilograms). They have a large head, small ears, and short legs. Wild guinea pigs have coarse brown or gray fur. Guinea pigs bred by people may have long or short fur of varying texture. The animals may be black, brown, red, or white, or a combination of colors. In some countries, guinea pigs are popular as show animals.
Most kinds of wild guinea pigs live in groups of from 5 to 10 animals. They make their homes on grassy plains and the edges of forests and in marshes and rocky areas. Guinea pigs sometimes take over burrows abandoned by other animals. They are active during the day, when they feed on plants. They are timid and utter loud whistlelike screams when frightened.
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After mating, a female guinea pig carries her young in her body for about 70 days. Most wild females have from one to four young. In captivity, as many as eight babies may be born. The young weigh about 3 ounces (85 grams) at birth and are well developed. The mother cares for them for about three weeks. Domestic guinea pigs may live up to eight years.
Guinea pigs have been hunted for food for hundreds of years. The guinea pig had long been domesticated when Spanish explorers arrived in the 1500’s. Dutch traders later brought guinea pigs to Europe.
Pet guinea pigs should be kept in a well-ventilated cage. Their diet should contain commercial food pellets and hay, supplemented with fruits and vegetables. Owners must make certain that guinea pigs get enough vitamin C in their diet. Otherwise, they will become sick. Food and clean water should be available for the animals at all times. Guinea pigs’ front teeth continue to grow all their lives. For this reason, the animals should have a nonpoisonous piece of wood to gnaw on to wear down the tips of their teeth. Guinea pigs are healthiest in temperatures between 65 and 75 °F (18 and 24 °C). They are sensitive to damp, rapid temperature change, and excessive heat or cold.
See also Cavy.
