Guinea pigs are highly social animals that should never be kept alone. Common welfare problems include inappropriate housing, isolation, dental disease, and vitamin C deficiency. Good husbandry can substantially improve their quality of life.
Guinea pigs are frequently underestimated as complex animals with significant welfare needs. Pet shop cages are almost universally too small, and the practice of keeping a single guinea pig or pairing them inappropriately with rabbits causes preventable suffering. Vitamin C deficiency, a wholly avoidable condition, causes joint pain and lethargy affecting many pet guinea pigs. Despite their small size, guinea pigs require substantial investment in appropriate housing, social companionship, diet, and veterinary care. Rehoming from rescues rather than pet shops supports responsible breeding and ensures health screening.