Why guinea pigs are often inadequately housed and how to provide the social companionship, space, and enrichment they need.
Guinea pigs are among the most commonly mistreated small pets - not through deliberate neglect but through failure to understand their needs. Solo housing causes chronic stress. Inadequate space prevents exercise and natural foraging behavior. Inappropriate diet (too many sweet fruits, insufficient hay) causes dental disease and metabolic problems. Cold, damp outdoor hutches cause respiratory disease. Better information at the point of sale and clearer minimum space requirements are needed to address systemic welfare failures in guinea pig ownership.