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Welcome to Rodents With Attitude, a guinea pig (cavy) care information source full of hints, tips and information that is easy to digest and aimed at the average pet owner. From feeding to bathing, bedding to behaviour, you’re bound to learn something new.

This comprehensive guide is built on years of practical observation and research and is written by me, trainee Rodent Health Advisor and regular Guinea Pig Magazine “Ask the Experts” contributer, Kate Butcher.

Come and join the herds of guinea pig fans worldwide and discover the joys of keeping these wonderful animals!

A Potted Description of Guinea Pigs

Guinea pigs, the Latin “Cavia porcellus”, or better known as Cavies, are rodents originating from South America, and they are now a popular family pet in many countries across the world. Here in the United Kingdom guinea pigs are considered “exotic pets” by most veterinary professionals and enthusiasts.

Guinea pigs are born in litters of around one to five babies, and the babies are called “pups”. They take ten months to mature, and when fully grown they average at around ten to twelve inches in length. Most guinea pigs live for three to six years, sometimes more. Male guinea pigs are called “boars”, and female guinea pigs are called “sows”.

Guinea pigs are herbivores and live on a diet of vegetables, hay and grass, some fruits, and special dried guinea pig feed. When given a routine, they also know when dinner time is and will whistle with excitement at the prospect of food! They make wonderful pets for adults and children alike, and if they are handled frequently and given a lot of love and attention, they often become extremely friendly and their company is very rewarding. When happy in their surroundings guinea pigs blossom into contented creatures with individual and endearing personalities. They love to talk and communicate and can be very chatty and inquisitive.

News from the hutch

27th December 2011
This is why you should separate them!
Have a read of this article. Unfortunately, this is what happens when males and females are left to their own devices.Guinea pigs will breed if you leave them together without neutering the male. They aren’t picky and will happily mate with brothers, sisters, mothers, fathers, cousins, aunties, uncles… you name it. They do not have the same moral compass as we do and believe me, short of neutering the boar or simply not keeping males and females together, you will end up with babies.Please stop the madness and take heed of this article!
20th November 2011
Christmas open day at Bramley Cavies Rescue
Bramley Cavies of Leeds, West Yorkshire are hosting a Christmas Open Day on Sunday December 4th at Swinnow Community Centre. Fun stuff includes animal handling, a raffle, face painting, a tombola, the lucky dip, and much more…. more information.
16th November 2011
Please help Glynneath Guinea Pig Rescue
Glynneath Guinea Pig Rescue in South Wales are in great need of wonderful new homes for the guinea pigs currently in rescue. The rescue centre is currently full and over capacity with guinea pigs searching for a new family. If you think you can give them a home, please call Suzy on 01639 721127 or visit the website to view the guinea pigs currently available.
14th November 2011
New issue of Guinea Pig Magazine out now
Guinea Pig Magazine Issue 5. On sale from Monday 14th November 2011. Order your copy now from: www.guineapigmagazine.com.