guinea pig life span
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Guinea Pig Life Span
How Long Can I Expect My Guinea Pig To Live?
Anywhere from five to ten years. In general anything over five or six years in considered “older.”
What Can I Do To Extend the Life of My Piggie?
The best indicator of a long life in guinea pigs is consistent high quality care and living conditions. This means making sure you are providing the best food (especially fresh foods and those high in vitamin C), spacious cages (3 feet by 3 feet for a single guinea pig, 3 feet by 4 feet for two), and safe bedding. Guinea pigs also need plenty of social interaction and exercise time. Consider keeping a minimum of two piggies for maximum results and remember to provide an hour daily for exercise.
The second secret to guinea pig longevity is observation. If you check on your guinea pig regularly you will know when something changes BEFORE it becomes serious. This is why it is generally recommended to keep one’s guinea pig in a central location. Every night when providing lap time or exercise do a quick health check – listen for any breathing problems, rattling noises etc. Starting early on its a good idea to weigh your guinea pig weekly. Sometimes it is difficult to spot weight gain or loss. A simple digital postal or kitchen scale will work really well. Your veterinarian will also appreciate records of what was considered “normal” weight.
Keep a close eye on food and water consumption. If at all possible just measuring scoops when you dish out pellets and fresh foods. This way you know that you are feeding your guinea pig the same amount every day. If you see an increase in the food left uneaten, this is a good sign something has gone wrong. Excessive water consumption (or too little) can also be a sign of illness – such as diabetes. Rule out obvious problems like leaky or malfunctioning water bottles and if still concerned call your veterinarian.
Problems to Watch Out For:
- Increasing problems with brittle teeth – may need to be trimmed by a veterinarian.
- Broken or misaligned molars – watch for problems eating.
- Cataracts
- Dry eyes – May need lubrication drops.
- Eye inflammation or infection
- Stiff limbs – remove anything from the cage area that you see your guinea pig struggling to climb over or get around.
- If you are concerned about arthritis note there are anti-inflammatory medications that can be quite helpful.
- Continue to watch out for calluses and foot sores. Use a medicated ointment or switch to softer bedding if need be. Remember foot problems can rapidly develop into life threatening infections.
Death of a Spouse or Companion
Guinea pigs feel sorrow and mourn at the death of a cage mate much as we do. Keep a close eye on your pet to make sure he or she is still eating. Weigh daily if need be. Sorrow at the death of a friend can lead to depression and a rapid decline in health. Once you are ready, it is highly suggested to go to a shelter or rescue and bring home a new cage mate. If not, be sure to spend more time socializing with the remaining guinea pig. Also, some people have had good luck with switching up the guinea pig’s surroundings for added distraction. Move the cage to a higher traffic area, consider even a new cage, and so on.
Pet Loss
The death of a pet can be very difficult for everyone involved. Its a personal decision but your family may want to consider holding a small funeral for the pet. Sometimes parents hate to see children experiencing pain so much that they try to sweep the whole experience under the carpet. This does not necessarily help children as they need a chance to grieve. Hold off on getting another pet until the time feels right for everyone.
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