# Guinea Pig (*Cavia porcellus*)

> Guinea pigs are domesticated rodents from the Andes, kept worldwide as gentle pets that need company, unlimited hay, and vitamin C in their diet. They live 5–7 years, communicate with wheeks and purrs, and unlike many rodents cannot manufacture their own vitamin C.

- **Category:** Mammal
- **Conservation status (IUCN):** Domesticated
- **Range:** Domesticated from wild cavies of the Andes; kept as pets and livestock worldwide, with feral populations in some temperate regions.
- **Canonical page:** https://globalanimalguide.org/animals/guinea-pig/
- **Last reviewed:** 2026-07-16

## Scientific classification

- **Kingdom:** Animalia
- **Phylum:** Chordata
- **Class:** Mammalia
- **Order:** Rodentia
- **Family:** Caviidae
- **Genus:** Cavia

## Facts at a glance

| Attribute | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Scientific name | Cavia porcellus |
| Diet | Herbivore — hay, fresh vegetables, and guinea-pig pellets with vitamin C |
| Habitat | Domestic worldwide; wild cavies in South America |
| Lifespan | 5–7 years (occasionally 8+ with excellent care) |
| Weight | 700–1,200 g (1.5–2.6 lb) |
| Top speed | Up to 8 km/h (5 mph); quick bursts when startled |
| Conservation status | Domesticated (IUCN) |

## Social herd animals

Guinea pigs evolved as prey animals living in groups and should never be kept alone — a solitary guinea pig becomes lonely and stressed. Same-sex pairs or small groups work well, with careful introductions. They communicate through wheeking (food excitement), purring, chutting, and rumble-strutting during dominance displays.

## Diet and scurvy risk

Like humans, guinea pigs cannot synthesise vitamin C and need daily fresh vegetables such as bell pepper and leafy greens alongside unlimited timothy hay and fortified pellets. Teeth grow continuously and are worn down by chewing hay and fibrous food. Without vitamin C they develop scurvy, which is fatal if untreated.

## Andean domestication

Indigenous peoples of the Andes domesticated guinea pigs thousands of years ago for food and ritual use. Today they are beloved pets in Europe and the Americas, with dozens of coat varieties from smooth American to long-haired Peruvians.

## Housing and handling

Guinea pigs need spacious, well-ventilated enclosures with hiding places, not wire floors that hurt feet. They startle easily but generally tolerate gentle handling once accustomed to people. Regular nail trims and weight checks help catch health problems early.

## Frequently asked questions

### Can guinea pigs live alone?

No. Guinea pigs are social and should live with at least one compatible companion, preferably of the same sex or neutered mixed pairs.

### How long do guinea pigs live?

Typically 5–7 years, longer than hamsters or mice. Good diet, hay, and veterinary care support a longer life.

### What fruits and vegetables can guinea pigs eat?

Daily bell pepper, cucumber, lettuce, and herbs are popular. Avoid iceberg lettuce, potato, and rhubarb. Introduce new foods gradually.

### Guinea pig vs hamster?

Guinea pigs are larger, diurnal, need vitamin C, and require companions. Hamsters are smaller, nocturnal, solitary, and have shorter lifespans.

### Do guinea pigs bite?

They rarely bite unless frightened or in pain. Most communicate discomfort by freezing or a gentle nip rather than aggressive biting.

## Sources

- [IUCN Red List — Cavia porcellus.](https://www.iucnredlist.org/search?query=Cavia%20porcellus&searchType=species)
- [Animal Diversity Web — Cavia porcellus. University of Michigan Museum of Zoology.](https://animaldiversity.org/accounts/Cavia_porcellus/)
- [Wikipedia — Guinea Pig.](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guinea_pig)

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Source: Global Animal Guide (https://globalanimalguide.org/animals/guinea-pig/). Licensed CC BY-NC 4.0 — free for non-commercial reuse with attribution.