Guinea pigs are popular small pets with complex social and dietary needs that are frequently unmet. Understanding their specific requirements is essential for providing good welfare.
Guinea pigs are frequently purchased as 'starter pets' for children, with little understanding of their complex needs. Solitary housing causes loneliness and depression in animals that evolved to live in social groups. Vitamin C deficiency causes painful scurvy - joint pain, bleeding gums, and reduced immunity - in animals who cannot synthesize this essential nutrient. Inadequate space prevents expression of natural running, jumping, and foraging behaviors. Because guinea pigs hide illness until critically ill and veterinary care costs can be significant, many owners delay treatment that results in preventable suffering. Prospective owners need much better information before purchasing.