Guinea Pigs?

Guinea pigs run, leap, and squeal with excitement. When they get worked up, they popcorn, which is a crazy little jump that looks like popcorn popping. They do this when they see their owners or when they're given treats. They're quick to give affection and most of them love to be scratched under the chin, played with, and held. For these reasons and more, guinea pigs make great pets.

Guinea pigs don't require constant care the way cats and dogs do. You don't have to walk them or scoop their litter. They don't bark in the middle of the night or try to eat the birds. They're inexpensive and easy to handle. And because they're small, they're great for animal lovers who live in apartments.

The biggest expense for a guinea pig is its housing. The cage should be large enough for your guinea pig to run and jump and should be made of wire to ensure good air flow. Mesh floors can cause broken legs and foot infections, so the bottom of the cage should be solid. Most pet supply stores sell wire cages with plastic bottoms that come apart for easy cleaning, which should be done a couple times a week.

The cage should be lined with bedding. Pine shavings, shredded newspaper, and grains all work well. Cedar shavings are toxic and should not be used. A cardboard box with a hole cut in the side will provide a nice place for your guinea pig to hide when he's playing or when he's startled.

Because guinea pigs can easily knock over their food while they play, dishes should be heavy and water should be given through a water bottle. Guinea pigs don't synthesize their own vitamin C, so food pellets made specifically for them have the added nutrients they need. Vitamin C drops can also be added to their water. Grass and timothy hay provide fiber. Guinea pigs also love fresh fruits and vegetables. Melons, apples, cucumbers, and parsley are good choices. Some guinea pigs enjoy crackers and cereal that's not sugar coated.

Once the housing and food is taken care of, the rest is all play. When you come home, your guinea pig will squeal and popcorn. He'll run in circles around his cage. If you talk to him, he'll talk back. He'll even let you pick him up and play with him and because most guinea pigs don't bite, the kids can play with him too.

Just like people, every guinea pig has his own personality and preferences. If your guinea pig doesn't like cucumbers, try carrots. If he doesn't like cereal, try graham crackers. Some guinea pigs prefer to be held while others want to run around and play. Whatever your guinea pigs prefers, at the end of the day, the most he'll demand is a little lettuce and he'll almost always be thrilled to see you. And that is the best reason to have one for a pet.