Guinea Pigs R Us Rescue
making a difference in animal life

Exercise

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Guinea pigs are fairly active animals; they require at least an hour of free range or floor time every day, where they are able to stretch their legs and explore a different environment for mental stimulation. Guinea pigs are prone to "tasting" new things in their travels, so it is very important to pig-proof the home before letting them free range. Put all cords and houseplants out of reach, be wary of objects that may fall on a guinea pig and areas that a pig could get trapped in. Unlike rabbits, guinea pigs are very difficult to litter train. They will urinate and defecate wherever they happen to be, so one must keep this in mind when determining where to free range the pigs! Laying down towels or old sheets on the free range area can help with this problem.

While guinea pigs enjoy playing in large tubes, running around their cages and when out for floor time, there are certain toys and accessories that are not suitable for guinea pigs. In particular, wheels and balls are very dangerous for guinea pigs and should never be used. Their little bodies are not made to run in the fashion that balls and wheels make them run, and it could cause damage to their backs or legs. Wheels would likely not be used anyway, but putting a guinea pig inside a ball could frighten it severely which would be cruel.

Please, even though some of these toys are marketed towards guinea pig owners, think before making your purchases about the nature and stature of our little friends and try to prevent injury and discomfort whenever possible. It's always better to be safe than sorry!

Bonding    Excercise    Housing    Nutrition    Illnesses