Guinea pigs are highly social animals with specific dietary needs. Understanding their requirements prevents the common welfare failures that affect many companion guinea pigs.
Guinea pig welfare failures are widespread due to misperceptions about their simplicity as pets. Solitary housing causes chronic social stress in animals that evolved in close-knit groups. Vitamin C deficiency from inadequate fresh vegetables causes painful scurvy. Small commercial cages prevent adequate exercise. Because guinea pigs are prey animals, illness is masked until severe — regular veterinary checkups are essential for early detection. Providing proper housing (1+ square meter), companionship, fresh vegetables daily, and veterinary care prevents most common welfare problems.