Guinea Pigs: Facts About Them

What Guinea Pigs are Traditionally Called

In South America, guinea pigs are traditionally called cuy, cuye, or curí. In the Andes, they’re originally domesticated for their meat.

They are Socialable

They are gregarious animals that tend to be found in nature in groups of five or more individuals. This factor can be considered when having them at home. It’s advisable to acquire at least a couple of them for your greatest satisfaction. However, whether several copies are bought or not, guinea pigs demand the affection of the owner.

Guinea Pigs are herbivores.

These animals are strict herbivores. They feed in the natural environment on all kinds of seeds, fruits, and vegetables. In the domestic environment, their diet is based on feed rich in vitamin C because it is crucial. Guinea pigs aren’t capable of synthesizing it themselves, among other things, for a good skin condition.

Guinea Pigs are part of the Andean popular gastronomy.

They are served roasted. Like the typical Spanish suckling pig or suckling pig. Or, as a skewer in urban food stalls. Its nutritional balance is balanced, with 20% proteins compared to 7% lipids.

Their Coats

Despite the fact that in pet stores the most common guinea pigs are short-haired ones, there are other breeds. Specifically breeds in which body dimensions, color, and type of coat change. Among them is the skinny guinea pig. Without hair except for a frontal tuft on the head. And the rex guinea pig, which can reach 2kilograms.

Developed Visual Sense

Although they have a developed visual sense, in terms of perspective they have certain limitations. Basically, difficulty in calculating distances. Also, depths often causes frequent accidents during races.

“Guinea Pig” Expression

The expression “being a guinea pig” is due to its widespread use in scientific research. They have an application in the health sector for the testing of new medical treatments. Their high learning capacity serves to study cognitive processes.

They practice Coprophagia.

Like rabbits and other animals, they need to eat their own feces. They take in a series of essential nutrients such as vitamin B. And certain minerals. In addition, they can recover part of the bacterial flora. This would be important for the digestion of their high fiber diet.

Growing Teeth

Their teeth grow throughout their lives. It is therefore essential, mainly in the domestic environment where they tend to eat feed. That they have other types of objects or ‘hard’ foods that allow their filing.

Name Origin of Guinea Pigs

Among the English-speaking community, they are known as guinea pigs. From the 18th century onwards, Dutch and English merchants brought them from South America. Then to Europe, stopping in Guinea. Thus the false belief that this was their place of origin spread.

Guinea pigs are a frequent choice among children.  European aristocrats began acquiring them more than 300 years ago. However, their food, health, and emotional needs require maturity. And also, responsibility is on the part of their owners.