When buying a new pet, there are some things that you need to keep in mind and put into consideration.
A few of those things are what types of food should you give them, how their place should look like, and what kind of care they require.
For example, you are planning to buy a Himalayan guinea pig.
Unlike other pets such as dogs and cats, Himalayan guinea pigs need to be taken care of in a different yet distinctive way.
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There are a lot of things to consider when getting a Himalayan guinea pig as a pet, and if you are planning to get one, then you’ve come to the right place.
Read more about the Himalayan guinea pig, their features, types of food they eat, and the care you should provide them.
What are the features of a Himalayan Guinea Pig?
The Himalayan guinea pig is among the ten different breeds of guinea pigs across the world.
Because they are considered an ideal choice for a pet, Himalayan guinea pigs are also referred to as the Siamese counterpart of the famous cat breed.
Among the features of the Himalayan guinea pig include a white body, dark nose, ears and feet.
Because of this, they are described as pointed guinea pigs.
Baby Himalayan guinea pigs are born with all-white fur, but as they grow older, the dark fur spots become visible.
The nose will become darker, as well as their ears and feet.
Himalayan guinea pigs are not your typical pets because they require more attention.
Thus, if you plan to get a Himalayan guinea pig as a pet, you must be experienced and know how to handle one.
Himalayan guinea pigs are highly recommended to families who have been taking care of Himalayan guinea pigs in the past.
These little furballs need more maintenance compared to other breeds or pets in general.
A Himalayan guinea pig has an average life span of five to seven years.
However, if you take good care of them, it can live up to 10 years.
Also, one thing to keep in mind when taking care of Himalayan guinea pigs is that their size should always be in sync with their age.
Older Himalayan guinea pigs have dark red eyes, and their head should be short.
Their hair should be clean and smooth all the time, and their smut should be in either a creamy or dark color.
How to take care of a Himalayan guinea pig?
One of the few things that you need to do when you are bringing a Himalayan guinea pig home is the place or cage that you are going to put them.
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When buying or making a cage for your Himalayan guinea pig, make sure that the place is spacious.
There should be no ramps or shelves in the cage that will possibly trap their small feet.
You can place a small box inside their cage, and they will use it as a hiding place.
It will also serve as their bed if they feel like it.
Choose a pen that has enough space for them to play and exercise.
Himalayan guinea pigs do not like too much light, so their home must be shady and cozy enough.
When they are placed in a place where there is intense light, the color on their points will fade.
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The reason why their points come in a dark color is that Himalayan guinea pigs are used to colder climates.
Thus, when taking care of them, make sure to put them in a shady area to keep their color.
The color of the points of the Himalayan guinea pigs is an important aspect that you should look into from time to time because the points will be an indicator if your guinea pig is suffering from an illness.
The color of their points can also indicate if they are afraid.
What do Himalayan guinea pigs eat?
Himalayan guinea pigs are not far from the common type of guinea pigs, and they have the same kind of diet to follow as well.
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Pellets are an excellent food choice for your guinea pigs because it provides them with their daily dose of proteins and vitamin C.
Also, just like us humans, vegetables are essential to include in your guinea pig’s diet.
You can give them pieces of plants in their meal or make it their snack.
You can use parsley, spinach, carrots, tomato, dandelion greens, romaine lettuce, or clover.
Orchardgrass is perfect for guinea pigs of all ages, and it keeps their digestive system in good shape.
Avoid feeding them seeds, dried fruits, and nuts on their food because they might choke on them.
Of course, water is essential to include in their diet to keep them hydrated.
Make sure to give them clean water every day and clean their water tanks regularly.
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Although taking care of Himalayan guinea pigs as a pet can be stressful, their company will provide joy and comfort you and your family needs.
Himalayan guinea pigs are small and lovable creatures that you will genuinely love, and it is crucial to give all your affection and attention to them.
