Guinea Pigs For A Thought

Origin

Guinea pigs are rodents that are native to South America. The wild guinea pigs (also called Cavies) were thought to be originally domesticated by the Incas. It was around the 1700s that they were first brought to Europe, and were quickly wanted for pets.

General

Guinea pigs live generally around 7-8 years (though I have read so many books saying 5 years or even 12 years). Guinea pigs come in a number of different hair styles; the main styles are: Smooth coated (Short straight hair); Abyssinian (Short spiky hair that goes in all directions); and Peruvian (Long straight fur).

Nature

Guinea pigs are defenseless animals against predators. If someone approaches them quickly they will think you are a predator and try to run, so always move slowly when near guinea pigs. Guinea pigs use there own language to communicate with themselves and humans, they squeak loudly can mean many things like pain, begging for food, loneliness, and fear. They jump when they are happy (so some animals do jump for joy), and they stretch out when they are relaxing.

End Note

Guinea pigs are great pets to have, I have several. Easy to train to do cool tricks and are great friends.