Guinea pigs are social, vocal, and intelligent animals whose welfare as companion animals is frequently compromised by isolation and inadequate housing.
Guinea pigs kept alone suffer from social isolation, a serious welfare issue for a highly social species. Inadequate vitamin C causes scurvy with painful joint swelling. Small cages prevent the running and hiding behaviors essential to guinea pig wellbeing. Seeds and pellets rather than hay cause dental disease. Their tendency to hide illness means owners often miss signs of suffering until disease is advanced. These are complex animals needing proper care.