Guinea pigs are popular pets for many reasons. They’re small not too expensive to care for and generally have calm personalities. If you’re thinking of adding a guinea pig to your family you might be wondering how much they cost.
While the initial purchase price of a guinea pig may not be very expensive there are ongoing costs to consider as well. Guinea pigs need a spacious cage a diet of fresh vegetables and hay and regular vet check-ups. All of these things can add up so it’s important to be prepared before you bring your new pet home.
Initial Costs
The purchase price of a guinea pig can vary depending on where you get them from. Pet stores like Petco usually have a good selection of guinea pigs to choose from and their prices start at around $40.00.
If you’re looking for a specific type of guinea pig you may need to go to a breeder. Show quality guinea pigs can cost upwards of $100.00 but pet quality guinea pigs are usually available for around $50.00.
Cage
Your guinea pig’s cage is going to be their home so it’s important to get one that’s spacious and comfortable. A good rule of thumb is to get a cage that’s at least 7.5 square feet for one guinea pig and 10 square feet for two.
You can find cages at pet stores or online and they range in price from $60.00 to $300.00. If you’re on a budget you might want to consider making your own cage. There are plenty of plans and tutorials online that can help you do this.
Diet
A healthy diet is essential for keeping your guinea pig happy and healthy. They should have unlimited access to hay fresh vegetables and a small amount of pellets.
You can find hay pellets and vegetables at your local pet store or grocery store. Prices will vary depending on where you shop but you can expect to spend around $10.00 per week on food.
Veterinary Care
It’s important to take your guinea pig to the vet at least once a year for a check-up. They also need to be vaccinated against certain diseases. The cost of a vet visit and vaccinations will vary depending on your location but you can expect to spend around $100.00 per year on vet care.
Total Cost
When you add up the initial purchase price cage diet and vet care you can expect to spend around $250.00 to $350.00 the first year you have your guinea pig. After that the ongoing costs will be around $100.00 to $150.00 per year.
How much does a guinea pig cost at Petco?
A guinea pig costs $19.
99 at Petco.
How much does a guinea pig cost with shipping at Petco?
A guinea pig costs $39.
98 with shipping at Petco.
Guinea pigs are a lot of work.
True or false?
Guinea pigs are not a lot of work.
They are actually very low maintenance pets.
Do guinea pigs need a lot of space?
No guinea pigs do not need a lot of space.
They are content living in a small cage or hutch.
What is the life expectancy of a guinea pig?
The life expectancy of a guinea pig is 5-7 years.
Do guinea pigs like to be held and cuddled?
Some guinea pigs like to be held and cuddled while others do not.
It really depends on the individual guinea pig’s personality.
What do guinea pigs eat?
Guinea pigs eat hay pellets vegetables water and occasional treats.
What is the best type of cage or hutch for a guinea pig?
The best type of cage or hutch for a guinea pig is one that is made of wire with a solid floor.
It should also be large enough for the guinea pig to move around in and have a hiding place.
Do guinea pigs need a companion?
Yes guinea pigs need a companion.
They are social animals and do not do well living alone.
Can guinea pigs be litter trained?
Yes guinea pigs can be litter trained.
What is the best type of litter to use for guinea pigs?
The best type of litter to use for guinea pigs is paper based litter.
Do guinea pigs like to play?
Yes guinea pigs like to play.
They especially like to play with tunnels balls and other toys that they can interact with.
What is the best way to pick up a guinea pig?
The best way to pick up a guinea pig is to scoop them up in your hands and hold them close to your body.
How often do guinea pigs need to be groomed?
Guinea pigs need to be groomed at least once a week.
What are the most common health problems for guinea pigs?
The most common health problems for guinea pigs are respiratory infections dental problems and obesity.
