10 Reasons Not To Get a Guinea Pig
If you’re considering bringing a guinea pig home, it’s important to consider all of its care and lifestyle requirements.
Even while guinea pigs are typically considered to be low-maintenance, cuddly pets, there are a number of important reasons why you might want to reconsider.
In this blog post, we’ll look at a few aspects to help you choose whether getting a guinea pig is a smart decision, such as the potential for harmful behavior, the need for specialized care, and the loud noises they produce.
Reasons Not To Get a Guinea Pig
Here are some common reasons not to get a guinea pig:
Cost
For their shelter, food, and medical costs, guinea pigs demand a considerable monetary commitment.
Depending on the size and quality, a cage or hutch might cost anywhere from $50 to several hundred dollars.
They also need regular veterinarian checkups, a diet of hay, veggies, and special pellets.
The expense of veterinary therapy may be high in the event of any medical emergencies.
In addition to the cost of the cage and the guinea pig itself, you’ll also need to purchase food, toys, and bedding.
Space
Guinea pigs need a sizable cage or living space, as well as access to the outdoors for exercise and social contact.
For one guinea pig, requires at least 7.5 square feet of room, and for two, they require at least twice as much area.
This implies that owners must have a location in their house where a cage may be installed and be ready to maintain it.
Time commitment
The daily care and attention that guinea pigs require, such as feeding, cleaning, and social contact, may not be realistic for those who lead hectic lives.
To guarantee their health and well-being, they need at least 30 minutes of engagement each day, and their cage has to be cleaned frequently.
Allergies
Due to their fur or dander, guinea pigs may trigger allergies in certain individuals, which can lead to symptoms including runny nose, itching, and sneezing.
Before purchasing a guinea pig, allergy sufferers should spend some time around them to check for any symptoms.
Short Lifespan
Given that guinea pigs can live up to 8 years, owners must be ready to make a long-term commitment.
As a result, owners must be ready to care for the animal’s requirements for a considerable period of time, as well as prepare for the ultimate death of their pet.
Health issues
Health issues in guinea pigs, such as respiratory infections or tumors, can arise and need veterinarian attention.
Additionally, they are vulnerable to some parasites, such as mites, which can be challenging to treat.
In order to maintain their health and well-being, routine veterinarian examinations are necessary.
Loud Noises
For those who live in close quarters with others, guinea pigs may be noisy, especially when they are hungry or terrified.
They make a range of noises, some of which may be extremely loud and obtrusive, such as squeaks, whistles, and purrs.
Some individuals may find this upsetting, especially if they’re attempting to sleep if the guinea pigs’ living quarters are shared.
Messiness
There will need to be daily cleanup because guinea pigs are notoriously filthy pets with droppings and urine.
To avoid the growth of hazardous bacteria in their cage, it must be cleaned constantly, and the bedding must be replaced frequently.
Biting issues
When scared or alarmed, guinea pigs have been known to bite. They also have been known to gnaw on household goods like furniture.
Owners should be ready to instruct their pets to stop biting since it can be painful.
To avoid boredom and disruptive conduct, it’s also crucial to provide children with a ton of toys and amusement.
Odor
Guinea pigs have an unpleasant odor that some people dislike.
Cleaning the cage frequently and changing the bedding will help to reduce this stench.
Potential for Zoonotic Diseases in Guinea Pigs
Numerous zoonotic illnesses can be transmitted from guinea pigs to humans.
These can consist of parasites like mites and ticks, as well as specific bacterial, fungal, and viral illnesses.
Ringworm, salmonellosis, lymphocytes choriomeningitis, and pseudotuberculosis are a few of the most prevalent zoonotic illnesses that may be transmitted by guinea pigs.
When handling guinea pigs, it’s critical to maintain excellent hygiene, which includes washing your hands after contact and steering clear of sick animals.
In addition, any guinea pigs that seem sick need to be examined by a veterinarian for a diagnosis and course of action.
Alternatives to Guinea Pigs as Pets
Pets like rabbits, hamsters, gerbils, rats, mice, chinchillas, and hedgehogs make wonderful substitutes for guinea pigs.
Hamsters, gerbils, and mice are better choices for those who don’t have the time to devote to daily engagement since they don’t require as much social connection as rabbits, which are sociable animals.
Hedgehogs are autonomous and need little handling, but rats and chinchillas are clever and loving.
To survive, each of these creatures needs a decent feed, a secure habitat, and a sanitary environment.
Learn more about the benefits of owning a guinea pig.
Questions
Do guinea pigs stink?
A guinea pig’s cage may smell strong if it is not cleaned often.
Are guinea pigs loud pets to own?
Guinea pigs may indeed make noise, especially when they are playing or in distress.
Need guinea pigs to be socialized a lot?
Guinea pigs are sociable creatures, and they require constant interaction and socialization with their owners and other guinea pigs to keep them happy and healthy.
What are some justifications for avoiding owning a pet guinea pig?
People sometimes decide against keeping guinea pigs as pets for a variety of reasons, including a lack of room, allergies, and budgetary restraints.
Do guinea pig need a lot of upkeep?
Yes, guinea pigs need to be cleaned, fed, and seen by a veterinarian frequently. These tasks can be time-consuming and costly.
Are guinea pigs hostile q?
Although they are not typically violent, guinea pigs have a tendency to become possessive, especially if they are not provided adequate room or handled appropriately.
Conclusion
In conclusion, guinea pigs may make wonderful pets for many people, but there are several significant reasons why you might want to think again before getting one.
Guinea pigs are loud, need specific care, and occasionally exhibit risky habits.
To ensure you are giving your pet the greatest care and surroundings possible, it is crucial to conduct your homework before bringing a guinea pig home.
You may be confident that you are selecting the greatest choice for you and your pet by taking into account all facets of the animal’s lifestyle and care.