Top Guinea Pig Care Mistakes New Owners Make (And How To Avoid Them)
Short answer: Most guinea pig care mistakes happen because new owners underestimate space, diet, companionship, and daily needs. This guide fixes that.
🐹 Many new guinea pig owners start with excitement, yet they soon feel confused. Even though guinea pigs look simple, they need more care than people expect. Because of this, many owners make the same mistakes. Luckily, you can avoid them easily with the right information. 😊
Why New Owners Make These Mistakes
Most mistakes come from outdated advice. Pet shops still recommend tiny cages, poor diets, and unsafe setups. However, once you understand what guinea pigs really need, everything becomes easier. Even better, your pigs stay healthier, happier, and more confident.
1. Keeping a Single Guinea Pig
Guinea pigs are herd animals. Although some people think one pig is fine, loneliness can cause stress. Because they communicate constantly, they need a friend of their own species. Therefore, always keep at least two pigs together.
For a bonded pair, consider a spacious C&C cage. It gives them space to run, hide and interact naturally.
2. Choosing a Cage That’s Too Small
Most shop cages look convenient. However, they are far too small for real movement. Guinea pigs need room to explore. They also need space for hay areas, hideys and enrichment.
A 2×4 C&C setup, like our best seller, offers the ideal footprint. Because the grids create flexible layouts, you can expand later if needed.
Why Bigger Is Better
- Improves mental stimulation
- Reduces boredom and stress
- Encourages natural behaviour
- Keeps pigs active and healthy
Additionally, larger cages stay cleaner for longer, especially with fleece liners.
3. Underestimating Cleaning and Daily Care
New owners often think guinea pigs are low maintenance. Yet they require regular cleaning, constant hay access, and daily checks. Because they hide illness, you need to watch for subtle changes.
You should:
- Spot clean daily
- Refresh hay at least once a day
- Check droppings and appetite
- Perform weekly full clean-outs
Even though this seems like a lot, it becomes easier with the right accessories.
4. Putting Guinea Pigs Outside All Year
Many people still believe guinea pigs can live outdoors permanently. Although this might work in warmer climates, the UK weather is too cold and damp. Because they are prone to respiratory illness, sudden temperature changes can be dangerous.
Indoor cages provide safer, stable conditions. As a bonus, indoor pigs become friendlier and more confident.
5. Rabbits and Guinea Pigs Living Together
This myth never seems to disappear. Despite how cute it sounds, rabbits can injure guinea pigs. Rabbits also carry bacteria that can harm pigs. Because their diets differ, mixing species creates unnecessary risks.
Keep them separate to:
- Prevent injuries
- Avoid stress
- Ensure correct nutrition
- Protect long-term health
6. Feeding Too Many Pellets and Not Enough Hay
Hay is not optional. Guinea pigs need hay for healthy digestion and for wearing down their teeth. Pellets should never replace hay. Instead, offer a small bowl of high-quality pellets daily, alongside plenty of hay.
Fresh vegetables add essential nutrients. Yet some foods are unsafe. Fortunately, our care guides explain suitable options clearly.
7. Misreading Normal Guinea Pig Noises
Because guinea pigs vocalise frequently, owners sometimes worry. However, wheeking, rumbling and chirping are normal. With time, you’ll learn the meaning behind each sound.
Common sounds:
- Wheeking: Excitement, usually for food
- Rumbling: Dominance or courting behaviour
- Purring: Contentment or minor annoyance
Even though these noises seem loud, they show healthy communication.
8. Ignoring Small Health Symptoms
A sneeze, watery eye, or slow eating pattern might seem normal. Yet guinea pigs hide illness. Because of this, even small signs matter. Always act quickly if something feels unusual.
Look for:
- Weight changes
- Reduced appetite
- Runny nose or eyes
- Dropping quality changes
- Hunched posture
Early action often prevents bigger problems.
9. Feeding Unsafe Fruit and Veg
Some vegetables are harmful. Others must be served in small portions. Since diet affects long-term health, it’s important to learn which foods are safe.
Avoid:
- Onion
- Potato
- Iceberg lettuce
- Rhubarb
- Chocolate (never!)
To help you plan meals, use our fruit and veg guide.
10. Assuming Guinea Pigs Suit Young Children
Guinea pigs are gentle. Yet they are also delicate. They need calm handling and consistent daily care. Although children enjoy them, adults must take full responsibility.
Guinea pigs need:
- Safe handling
- Frequent cleaning
- Daily feeding
- Regular health checks
With the right setup, they become amazing family pets.
FAQs
Do guinea pigs need a friend?
Yes. They thrive in pairs or groups because they are social animals.
What size cage do I need?
A 2×4 C&C cage suits two pigs. A larger cage gives them even more space. Browse our cage collection for options.
What should guinea pigs eat daily?
Unlimited hay, one cup of vegetables, and a small portion of pellets. Because hay is so important, make sure it is always available.
How often should I clean the cage?
Spot clean daily. Deep clean weekly. Use fleece liners to make cleaning faster.
Common Questions From New Owners
- “Is sneezing normal?” — Sometimes, but always monitor closely.
- “How do I tell if my guinea pig is happy?” — Popcorning, exploring and wheeking are great signs.
- “Why is one pig chasing the other?” — Normal dominance behaviour.
- “What bedding is best?” — Fleece liners offer comfort and easy cleaning.
Final Thoughts 🐹✨
Although guinea pigs are small, they have big needs. When you avoid these common mistakes, you create a happier, healthier home for your pets. Because good care matters, choose the right cage, feed the correct diet and offer daily attention. Your pigs will reward you with trust, confidence, and adorable moments.
Ready to Upgrade Your Guinea Pig Setup?
Explore our full range of spacious C&C cages, fleece liners, accessories and care guides. Your guinea pigs deserve the best. ❤️