Guinea Pig Profile – Small Rodents with a Big Voice
They are small, round, and surprisingly loud. Guinea pigs are among the most popular pets for families. Their sociability, lively and cheerful nature, and surprisingly diverse vocalizations make them true family favorites. Children quickly realize: it is never boring with guinea pigs.
Key Data at a Glance
- Size: 20–30 cm
- Weight: 800–1,200 g
- Age: 5–8 years
- Special Feature: absolute group animals – keeping them alone is taboo
Behavior & Communication
Guinea pigs are true vocal artists. They purr, squeak, chirp, and call with a loud “Wheek!” when food is available. Some sounds almost resemble bird chirping, but guinea pigs owe their name to something else: their typical squeaking, which is reminiscent of small pigs, and their journey by ship from South America to Europe. That is why they are called “Meerschweinchen” (sea pigs) in German.
It is particularly fascinating that they distinguish between familiar and unfamiliar people. Those who care for them regularly become their primary caregiver and are greeted with joyful sounds. For children, it is a special experience when the animal recognizes their voice and reacts to it.
Daily Life with Guinea Pigs
For guinea pigs to be happy, they need space, varied activities, and the right diet. The foundation is hay, along with fresh water and daily vitamin-rich vegetables such as bell peppers or herbs. Guinea pigs cannot produce Vitamin C themselves. Therefore, they must be supplied with fresh vegetables such as bell peppers or herbs daily. This special dietary requirement clearly demonstrates to children the importance of a healthy diet – not only for animals but also for us humans.
A typical daily routine could look like this: In the morning, hay is replenished, and in the evening, fresh vegetables are provided. Children can easily be involved, for example, by placing a piece of bell pepper in the food bowl or observing how the animals joyfully squeak at the rustling of the vegetable bag. Thus, routine becomes an exciting experience.
However, parents should ensure that children primarily observe the animals. Since guinea pigs are prey animals, they feel safer when they can decide how close they get to people. Petting is possible if the animals approach people on their own. Coercion is forbidden.
Tips for Parents
- Always keep at least two animals, preferably a small group.
- Ensure a large, well-structured enclosure with retreats.
- Use the animals’ sounds to initiate conversations with children (“What do you think this squeak means?”).
- Explain that guinea pigs are not toys, but independent living beings.
Animalistically Important
Guinea pigs are not cuddly toys, but fascinating partners for observation. They teach children how diverse communication can be and that signals must be taken seriously. Those who listen to them discover small personalities with big voices and understand that care means much more than just feeding.