Skinny Guinea Pig
Social, gentle, and happiest with a buddy. Skinny Guinea Pig fits people who can provide a spacious enclosure, unlimited hay, daily vegetables, and consistent interaction.
size
Small
energy
Medium
handling
Often (gentle handling)
setupComplexity
Medium
lifespan
5 to 7 years
diet
Hay-based with vegetables and vitamin C
space
Large enclosure recommended
messLevel
Medium to High
aloneTimeTolerance
Medium (best with a companion)
noise
Low to Medium
Best for
- People who want a gentle, social small pet
- Homes that can keep two compatible guinea pigs
- Families with older kids and supervised handling
- Owners who can keep a clean, spacious habitat
Not ideal for
- Homes that can only keep one guinea pig
- People who want a very low-cleanup pet
- Owners who travel often without reliable daily care
Temperament
- Friendly and social
- Often enjoys routine and gentle interaction
- Can be shy at first and warms up with consistency
Daily routine
feeding: Unlimited hay, fresh water, measured pellets, and daily vegetables. Provide vitamin C sources.
interaction: Gentle handling and floor time in a safe area, plus social time with a companion.
cleaning: Spot-clean daily. Deep clean regularly based on enclosure size.
Living fit
apartment: Often fine if you have space for a proper enclosure and cleaning routine.
family: Great with calm routines and supervised handling.
firstTimeOwner: Often suitable if you commit to social housing and daily feeding.
Health notes
- Dietary vitamin C is important. Discuss a simple plan with an exotics vet.
- Watch for appetite changes, dental issues, and weight loss.
- Keep bedding clean and dry to reduce foot and skin problems.
Cost and time
time: Moderate daily time for feeding, social interaction, and spot cleaning.
cost: Moderate ongoing cost for hay, bedding, veggies, and exotics vet care.
Find the best small pet for your lifestyle
Prefer a guided recommendation instead of browsing?
Find the best small pet for me