FOREVER

Guinea pigs usually live 5-7 years.

• Are you prepared to commit to a pet for the next 7 years (or more)?

• How do you foresee your life changing in the next few years?

Lifetime Cost $6,000-14,000

Monthly Costs $60-120 The ongoing monthly cost of bedding / litter, hay, food, treats, toys, and fresh produce, for two guinea pigs is approximately $60 to $120.

Annual Costs $1,000-1,750 Guinea pigs should have an annual wellness exam with an experienced exotic veterinarian every year, this costs around $100 to $150 per guinea pig. Therefore, the total annual cost for owning two guinea pigs is $1,500 and $2,000; this includes the monthly costs of food and other supplies as well as their annual check-up.

In the event of a medical emergency, which is unfortunately common as guinea pigs are extremely fragile, the cost of emergency veterinary care can be $500-700 or more.

• Do you have $60-120 of disposable income per month to spend on your guinea pig’s supplies?

• If your guinea pig becomes sick are you able to pay $500-$700 to take them to the vet today?

• Are you adopting a guinea pig for a child or teen? Will you take over if they get bored or when they go to college?
  

• Are the children gentle and calm or do they play and interact roughly? Do they generally follow directions and complete chores or do they need frequent corrections and reminders?
  

• Are you planning to have children in the future?

• Do you have a predator pet such as a cat or a dog in your home or would you like to have a cat or a dog in the future?
  

FAMILY PLANNING: Pregnancy, newborn care, and the evolving interests of children can significantly impact the time and attention you can devote to a pet. If you are planning to start or expand your family in the future, consider if you will still be able to dedicate 2-4 hours per day to caring for your guinea pigs. Check in with your family to see if they are willing to step up and help out with pet care in the future if needed.

CHILDREN: There is a common misconception that guinea pigs are pets that children can take care of on their own. In reality, children can help with some of the care but a majority of the daily care and mental load will need to be performed by an adult. Also consider how well your child currently completes their chores and school work. Are they diligent and responsible or do they wait until the last moment and need frequent intervention and reminders? Each year hundreds of guinea pigs are dumped outside or rehomed when families realize just big of a responsibility they are.

And while children may be excited about guinea pigs at first, this enthusiasm often fades after a few weeks or months. As kids grow older, their focus naturally shifts to friends, school, extracurricular activities, and sports; leaving guinea pigs neglected.

OTHER PETS: It is also important to consider other pets before bringing home a guinea pig. As prey animals, their flighty movements and high pitched squeaks will trigger predatory instincts in cats and dogs.  Even well-meaning play can be terrifying and dangerous for guinea pigs due to their small size and fragility. To ensure their safety, guinea pigs should be kept in a separate room, with multiple barriers such as closed doors and pet gates to protect them from potential encounters with other pets. This will create a secure environment where guinea pigs can thrive without the stress of constant exposure to predators.

No.

Guinea pigs are extremely social creatures and being alone is confusing, lonely, and distressing for them. They thrive in pairs or small herds. With a friend of the same species, guinea pigs share grooming, play, and sleep side-by-side, creating a deep bond that fulfills their need for companionship. Neither the most loving and attentive pet owner nor a pet of other species can replace this.

Single guinea pigs often display signs of loneliness and stress, such as excessive squeaking, pacing, or hiding. Left alone too long, they may become withdrawn or even depressed, losing interest in food, play, or interaction. The effects of isolation on guinea pigs is similar to the adverse effects of isolation observed in other social animals like orcas in captivity or humans in solitary confinement

DID YOU KNOW? It is illegal to own just 1 guinea pig in Holland, Switzerland, Sweden, Germany and Austria.

• Would you like to take a week-long cruise or stay with family over a long weekend?

• Do you have a trusted friend or family member who could help care for your guinea pig while you’re away?

• Is there an exotic vet, local rescues or pet care services that you can count on for boarding?

It’s important to assess whether your travel goals are compatible with the commitment needed to care for guinea pigs and if you are willing to adapt your plans to ensure they receive proper care. Guinea pigs require daily care, including fresh food, water, and spot cleaning of their enclosure. They cannot be left alone for more than 24 hours without risk to their health and well-being, making it necessary to arrange for their care during any trip.

Finding a pet sitter can be tricky and boarding with a rescue or a vet can cost $25-40 per day.