Guinea Pig Guide for Beginners

How to Prepare for Your New Pet

Guinea pigs may be small in size, but their big personalities and love for snacks, zoomies, and snuggles make them epic companions. Get ready for some major bonding with your new furry friend. Don’t freak out, though — we’ve got everything you need to know about welcoming your guinea pig BFF in this guide.

What You're Signing Up For: Guinea Pigs are a Long-Term Relationship

While some small pets have a fleeting couple of years, guinea pigs are here for the long haul. On average, these little guys live anywhere from five to eight years — and some even hit double digits! Before you commit, think about your long-term plans. Will your guinea pig still be vibing with you in a decade? Their environment, diet, and overall care all contribute to how long they’ll be your cuddle buddy, so make sure you’re giving them the best!

Tip: While baby guinea pigs are undeniably cute, if the thought of 10 years seems like a lot, there are plenty of older guinea pigs in shelters who’d love to be your pal.

Sweet, Social, and Ready to Chat — Your Guinea Pig Loves Company

Each guinea pig has its own vibe, but generally, they’re affectionate little creatures who love being around their humans. While they may need time to get used to a new scene, they’ll eventually open up with gentle care. Cuddling is totally their jam, so learn how to hold them safely — one hand under their booty, the other around their midsection. And for playtime? Let them roam around their playpen or shelter for some quality exploration and exercise!

If you can, consider adopting more than one guinea pig. They thrive in pairs or groups, and introducing them as babies is the easiest way to build a squad. But if you’re starting small, make sure you’re spending enough time hanging out with your solo piggy to keep them happy. These little chatterboxes also love to communicate — listen for their cute “wheeking” when they’re hungry or craving attention, or their soft purring when they’re feeling content. And if your guinea pig starts “popcorning” (yes, it’s a thing), they’re literally jumping for joy!

Keep Their Playpen Comfy & Clean

Your guinea pig’s playpen or shelter is their sanctuary, so make it cozy. Guinea pigs love space to stretch out and explore, so avoid those tiny setups advertised for them. They need at least 7.5 square feet per pair to roam and feel comfy. Single-level spaces are ideal since guinea pigs aren’t climbers, but you can totally add ramps and platforms as long as they’re sturdy and safe. DIY setups like C&C playpens are super popular because they’re expandable and easy to customize for your pet’s ultimate comfort. 

Warning: No wire floors! They’re a no-go for your guinea pig’s feet and can lead to injuries. Keep their playpen in a draft-free, chill spot away from the hustle and bustle of the house. And don’t forget — these little guys love to burrow, so add some soft bedding or hideouts for privacy. Regular cleaning will keep both your piggy and your home smelling fresh, so clear out dirty bedding daily and refresh their space weekly.

 

Feed the Need: Hay is Life

Guinea pigs are herbivores, so their diet is pretty simple, but that doesn’t mean it has to be boring. About 80% of their meals should be farm-fresh hay, and at Andy, we’ve got you covered with the best Timothy hay. Our small-batch forage helps your guinea pig keep those teeth in check while giving them all the nutrition they need to thrive. Plus, our Andy-Pak™ pre-packaged feeder boxes are not only perfect for keeping their playpen organized, but they double as chew toys!

For baby guinea pigs, alfalfa hay is key due to its fiber and calcium, but once they hit six months, switch to Timothy hay for balanced nutrition. Don’t forget, guinea pigs need their daily dose of vitamin C since they can’t make it themselves. A little scoop of pellets and a sprinkle of fresh leafy greens like collards or dandelion greens will keep them feeling good. Sweet peppers, apples, and cucumbers are perfect as occasional treats. And, of course, always have fresh water on hand.

At Andy, we’re passionate about giving your guinea pig the best. We’re here to support you every step of the way, so share your journey with us — we’d love to see how your new pet’s settling in!