Guinea pigs are highly social animals with specialized dietary needs including vitamin C. Proper housing, companionship, and diet are essential for their welfare as companion animals.
Guinea pig welfare is compromised in many typical pet-keeping scenarios. Single housing causes chronic stress and depression in these highly social animals — a companion is not optional but essential. Small commercial cages fail to meet exercise and space requirements. Vitamin C deficiency from inadequate fresh vegetables causes scurvy, a painful and debilitating condition. Many guinea pigs are housed on wood shavings when paper-based bedding is more appropriate. Their need to continuously graze means constant access to hay is essential for both dental health and gut motility. Quiet environments matter — as prey animals they are easily stressed by unpredictable noise and handling. Their vocalizations and behavior provide clear welfare indicators that attentive owners can learn to read.