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Category: Animals & Pets
Some pet owners say you should consider buying a pet to have the same importance as having a baby. In some ways this is very true. You need to consider your financial status, how much time you have, and how much of a commitment you want to make, before purchasing a guinea pig.
Costs
One guinea pig can cost $50 a month for food and bedding if you don't plan ahead. Pet stores are notorious for jacking up prices, getting bedding, and hay at feed stores can drastically cut your costs.
Keep in mind that plain green pellets are just as healthy as the fancy pellets that have all kinds of color full goodies, some guinea pigs even prefer the cheaper, plainer pellets.
A cage might cost you over $100 if you don't know your options. Many pet stores try to convince to buy their deluxe, yet expensive, guinea pig cage. As long as you have 2 square feet of room for one guinea pig and an extra square foot for each additional guinea pig, you'll be fine. Instead of buying an expensive cage you can opt for some cheaper, yet just as robust options.
Many department stores sell large storage bins and small children's wading pools. As long as the sides are 12 inches or higher these cheap alternatives make great cages.
Interaction
Guinea pigs are very social animals, but don't need much to keep them happy. They don't need to be walked and their cages are relatively small. If you spend most of your day at work or school, housing two guinea pigs together is your best option. Two guinea pigs will keep each other company and not become lonely during the day.
The best way to interact with your guinea pig is to hold them in your lap. You can put them on a towel to keep hair off. Guinea pigs are perfectly content to lay on your lap and be petted 30 minutes a day. You can even multitask with your guinea pig... read a book, surf the internet, or even study for a math test while holding them -- they won't mind.
Health
Although guinea pigs don't have annual vaccinations, you do need to have a veterinarian handy. Guinea pigs will try to hide their symptoms when they're sick and you may fail to notice the symptoms until a week has passed. If your guinea pig stops eating, drinking, or seems lethargic, they are very sick and need to see a veterinarian within the next 24 hours. Most problems can be cured with one or two visits to the veterinarian, but you should always keep some money set aside for an emergency visit.
Conclusion
With planning, owning a guinea pig can be a delightful experience. I hope this guide has helped you in deciding whether or not a guinea pig is the right pet for your lifestyle and pocketbook.
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