Baby Guinea Pigs Care
Baby Guinea Pigs Care
When you consider the small size of pups examine the cage they are housed in. A Special Cage or cage modification that is escape proof and safe for the pups might be required. Should a baby escape, they become highly at risk of danger, injury or death. Prevention from babies getting their head stuck or strangulated between the bars of a cage, by lining the interior walls of their cage. From the floor level up to approximately one foot, place either chloroplast or cardboard all around the interior of the cage wall.
If you use a C&C cage, make sure that the grid is no smaller than 9 going in either direction. If the grid hole is too wide, the baby can get their head stuck, or it can become fatal and they die from strangulation.
If you are using a grid cage, consider doubling the walls and in between place the cardboard or chloroplast. When the pups are four to six months of age, then this extra layer can be removed when the guinea pigs have grown large enough that there is little chance they can become stuck.
At birth care
Once mom has given birth and cleaned the pups and had an opportunity to bond, then it’s a good idea to start weighing the pups. It’s good to be in the habit of weighing your guinea pig regularly and to keep track and monitor differences. Differences in weight can be a warning sign of health problems. By also tracking the pups weight, you can observe your pups health and growth. If they are having difficulties, and not growing at the same rate as the other pups, you will be able to take action and intervention. Sometimes pups are lacking the required amount of their mother’s milk. You can intervene and provide opportunity for that pup, to be alone with it’s mother.
If weight continues to fluctuate, for either the pups or mother, then best to contact your Veterinarian right away.
Food requirement considerations for pups
Alfalfa based pellets are good for puppies growing needs and also for the mother during her pregnancy. When purchasing, make sure there is adequate levels of vitamin C as they cannot produce it on their own. Remember they are plant based eaters and avoid products that contain animal products, fats and sugars and nuts and seeds.
When is the time to separate Mom from the babies
When they are four weeks old, it is okay for them to be separated from their mom.
Being a responsible pet owner
Although baby guinea pigs are adorable, they require work, food, shelter and a responsible owner.
Please consider your pets needs and be a responsible pet owner!