Having baby guinea pigs is an exciting time for any pet owner.
But with this excitement comes responsibility, as the newborns require a lot of care and attention to ensure their health and safety.
It’s important to understand what needs to be done when your guinea pig has babies to provide them with the best possible start in life.
In this article, we will cover all you need to know about caring for newborn guinea pigs and keeping them healthy until they are old enough to join their parents in the family home.
From providing a safe environment, proper nutrition, and regular vet visits – these tips will help make sure your little ones have everything they need!
1. Provide a Safe Environment
As with any newborn animal, it is important to provide them with an environment that is free from predators or other hazards.
This means ensuring their cage has no gaps or holes that can allow larger animals access to the babies and making sure there are no objects inside the cage that could harm them.
It is also a good idea to provide the cage with bedding that is soft and comfortable for the newborns, such as fleece or paper towels.
2. Proper Nutrition
Mother guinea pigs are essential to the health of their newborns, as they provide them with much-needed nutrients and hydration.
In the first few weeks after birth, it is important to ensure that the mother guinea pig has access to plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, hay, and water.
These foods will provide newborns with the vitamins and minerals they need to grow strong and healthy.
It is also important to offer the mother guinea pig a vitamin supplement specifically designed for pregnant or nursing animals, as this will help ensure her milk supply is adequate for the babies.
3. Regular Vet Visits
As with any pet, regular visits to the vet are important to diagnose and treat any health issues that may arise.
It is especially important to make sure newborn guinea pigs receive a thorough check-up as soon as possible after they are born, and then again at least every six weeks until they become adults.
Taking care of your guinea pig’s belly button is an important part of its hygiene and overall health. Check their belly button for any indications of discharge, redness, or irritation during daily grooming sessions.
This will help to ensure they are in good health and that any potential issues are spotted and dealt with quickly.
4. Monitor Growth
As newborns age, it is important to keep an eye on their growth and development to spot any potential health issues early.
It is normal for guinea pigs to grow rapidly in their first few weeks of life, so they should be weighed and measured regularly to ensure they are developing as expected.
If any significant changes in size or weight are noticed, it is important to contact a vet for advice.
5. Monitor Behavior
As the newborns get older, pay close attention to their behavior and monitor for any signs of stress or illness.
Keep an eye out for any changes in appetite, activity levels, or general demeanor.
If you notice anything unusual or concerning, it is important to contact a vet for advice.
It is also important to check the babies regularly for fleas or other parasites and to provide any necessary treatments.
How To Handle New Born Guinea Pigs?
When caring for newborn guinea pigs, it is important to handle them carefully and gently.
Always wash your hands before handling the babies to ensure they are not exposed to any germs or bacteria.
It is also best to avoid picking up the babies unless necessary, as this can cause stress and discomfort.
If you do need to pick up the newborns, make sure to use two hands and support their bodies, ensuring they feel safe and secure.
It is also important to allow them to move around and explore their environment.
If you are introducing your guinea pig babies to other animals such as cats or dogs, it is best to do so slowly and with close supervision.
How Long Do Guinea Pig Babies Stay With Mom?
Guinea pig babies typically stay with their mother for around 8-10 weeks.
During this time, the mother will provide them with all the nutrition and care they need to thrive.
Once they reach 8 weeks of age, it is usually safe to separate the babies from their mothers.
However, it is important to make sure the babies are healthy and strong before doing so.
It is also important to ensure they have been adequately socialized during their time with their mom, so they are well-prepared for life on their own.
If any of the babies seem weak or unwell, it is best to take them to a vet as soon as possible for a check-up.
Once the babies reach 8-10 weeks of age and have been checked by a vet, they can be safely separated from their mother and introduced to their new home.
How To Prepare Newborn Guinea Pigs’ Cage?
When setting up a new cage for newborn guinea pigs, it is important to keep their needs in mind.
Start by selecting a large, open space that allows the babies plenty of room to move around and explore.
It is also important to make sure the enclosure is secure and escape-proof.
Next, add a layer of bedding material such as hay or shredded paper.
This will help to keep the babies warm and comfortable, as well as provide them with a safe place to nest.
Finally, make sure the cage is equipped with toys and items that encourage exercise and stimulation.
These can include tunnels, balls, mazes, and even small treats such as pieces of fresh fruits and vegetables.
By creating an environment that meets the needs of your newborn guinea pigs, you can ensure they have everything they need to grow and thrive.
It is also important to keep their living space clean, so make sure to remove any soiled bedding or food scraps regularly.
Do Baby Guinea Pigs Need Water?
Yes. They do.
Even though the mother guinea pig breastfeeds her babies they need to have access to fresh water all the time.
It is important to ensure that clean and fresh water is always available for the newborn guinea pigs, as they need it to stay hydrated.
The best way to provide them with water is by using a bottle that can be attached to the side of their cage.
Make sure their water bottle is regularly cleaned and filled with fresh, clean water every day.
It is also important to keep the area around the water bottle clean and free from debris as this can contaminate the water.
Always check that the spout of the bottle is in good condition so that the guinea pigs have unrestricted access to the water.
Finally, check that the water level is sufficient and easily accessible to the babies.
What If Mother Guinea Pig Rejects Her babies?
If the mother guinea pig is rejecting her babies, it can be very stressful for both the mother and the newborns.
In this situation, it is best to take the babies away from their mothers and seek veterinary care if necessary.
The vet can check for any underlying medical issues that may have caused the rejection.
It can also be helpful to provide the mother with extra food and water, as well as a comfortable place to rest.
Finally, it is important to separate the babies from their mothers for at least two weeks before introducing them back into their environment.
This will help ensure that both the mother and babies are calm and accepting of each other.
Final Thought
Caring for newborn guinea pigs can be a rewarding experience, but it is important to be prepared.
Make sure you have the right environment and supplies ready before introducing the babies into their new home.
You should also be aware of the signs that indicate if your guinea pigs are not getting the nutrition or care they need.
By providing a safe and nurturing environment for your baby guinea pigs, you can ensure that they have the best start in life.
Happy Petting!