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Guinea Pig
Social, vocal, gentle
Also known as: cavy, guineapig
- Adult weight
- 0.7–1.2 kg
- Life expectancy
- 5–7 years
- Size
- Small
- Exercise
- Moderate
- Origin
- South America (Andes)
- Group
- Rodent
Reference update: · Not veterinary-reviewedNo single breed standard — ranges are typical values for this group.
Health topics to discuss with your vet
- ●Vitamin C deficiency (scurvy) — cannot make their ownBreed-specific association not yet verified.
- ●Overgrown teethBreed-specific association not yet verified.
- ●Bladder stonesBreed-specific association not yet verified.
- ●Respiratory infectionsBreed-specific association not yet verified.
Not a diagnosis or a complete risk list. A general condition reference explains a disease but does not establish increased risk in this breed or group. Unsourced associations still need verification.
Care tips
- ✓Daily vitamin C (10–30 mg/kg) from fresh veg or fortified pellets
- ✓Keep at least two together
Calculators for your Guinea Pig
Sources & review
Reference update 25 October 2026; not an independent veterinary review. Direct breed evidence is identified above. General directories below do not verify every listed health association.
- Merck Veterinary Manual – Rodents ↗
- Merck Veterinary Manual – Guinea pigs ↗
- Merck Veterinary Manual – Ferrets ↗
- Merck Veterinary Manual – Hedgehogs ↗
Weight and lifespan are typical ranges for healthy adults from breed standards and veterinary references; individuals vary. Not veterinary advice.