Guinea Pig Care Guide: Diet, Vitamin C & Daily Routine

Guinea pigs are sociable, chatty little animals and make brilliant family pets. Getting their diet and routine right from day one keeps them healthy for years. Here's what every new owner in Cornwall and across the UK should know.

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1. Hay first, always

Good-quality hay should make up most of a guinea pig's diet and be available all day. Chewing hay keeps their continually growing teeth worn down and their gut moving.

2. Vitamin C every day

Like people, guinea pigs can't make their own vitamin C, so they need it from their food. A complete guinea pig nugget made for the species, plus fresh leafy greens and pepper, helps cover it. A vitamin C treat can top up, but shouldn't replace a balanced diet.

Burgess Excel Adult Guinea Pig Nugget Blackcurrant and Oregano 1.5kg Shop now	Little One Vitamin C. Snack for All Small Mammals 160g Shop now
Science Selective Guinea Pig Food 3kg Shop now	Twitch by Wagg Guinea Pig 2kg Shop now

3. Company and space

Guinea pigs are herd animals and are usually happiest kept with at least one other guinea pig. Give them as much space as you can, a hide each, such as an igloo, deep clean bedding and fresh water daily.

4. Daily and weekly routine

• Daily: fresh hay and water, a measured portion of nuggets, fresh greens, spot-clean wet bedding, a quick health check (eyes, nose, droppings, appetite).
• Weekly: full clean-out, check nails and coat, weigh them to spot changes early.

Thinking of getting guinea pigs? See which are in at our small animals for sale in Cornwall page, and read what to check before you buy.

This guide is general information only. If your pet seems unwell, stops eating or you are unsure about a treatment or dose, please speak to your vet.