Guinea Pigs: Breeds And Care
It was naturalist Conrad von Gesner who described guinea pigs nearly 5 centuries ago. Interestingly, its original name was ‘cuy’, idealized in the regions of origin of the animal, Colombia, Ecuador and Peru. However, over time and its arrival in other countries, the names of this rodent changed to ‘ cuye/o ‘, ‘guinea pig’ or ‘guinea pig’.
Identified with the scientific name of Cavia porcellus , this species of mammal includes different breeds that require specific care. Next, we will present the origin, the necessary care and the breeds of the guinea pigs. Be sure to check it out!
Guinea pigs: breeds and care
Did you know that the term in English guinea pig refers to the guinea pigs for a historical curiosity? Apparently, the purchase of a specimen of Cavia porcellus cost a guinea ( guinea , in English), so the species earned that name. But that’s not the most interesting detail about the guinea pigs.
This herbivorous mammal originates from the Andean region, where it was domesticated by the Incas 500 years ago. At that time, and until relatively recently, this rodent was not valued as a pet, but as an important nutritional source, also taking place in religious ceremonies. After the arrival of the Spaniards in America, the export of guinea pigs to Europe began.
Over time, domestication and cross-selection influenced the different characteristics of the guinea pigs. The most striking feature is its coat, both the type of fur and its different shades. Its relevance is such that there are several classifications within the same species, according to the guinea pig breeding manual.
While so much terminology can sound complicated, don’t worry. Next, we will explain in detail the most distinctive characteristics of the guinea pigs.
races
Regarding the number of breeds that make up this species, the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) currently recognizes 13 different races. Did you know that one way to differentiate guinea pigs is by their fur type? There are individuals that do not have them and others that are classified according to different coat lengths or its texture. As there are many races, let’s mention some of them as examples.
Abyssinian
Among the guinea pig breeds , the Abyssinian is one of the oldest and easiest to identify. Its body is covered from top to bottom with “rosettes” or swirls, but despite this it does not require great care. Furthermore, they are very affectionate pets and have a lot of energy.
American
Without a doubt, American guinea pigs are the most common and the most recognized by the general public. Its appearance is simple, with a short coat, which presents a wide variety of colors and combinations. Thanks to its type of fur, it hardly needs any care. It is ideal for people with little time who want to have a pet.
Coronet
Hairstyle lovers love the coronet breed because of the dense coat these rodents display on their heads. Looks like the pet has a forelock! As it has the same type of fur as the Peruvian breed – which we will see below – it is essential to brush this breed daily, to avoid the appearance of tangles and dirt.
Peruvian
Peruvian guinea pigs are arguably one of the best known breeds among lovers of this species. They are characterized by their coat, which can reach up to 50 centimeters in length. For this reason, some people define this rodent as ‘a wig with paws’.
Another of the breeds, called silkie or sheltie , is very similar to the Peruvian variety. However, its long hair begins to grow back from the face, whereas in the Peruvian breed it covers the entire body. Given the coat length, both breeds need to be brushed daily and have their fur trimmed every now and then.
rex or teddy
A funny fact about this breed is that in England it is called a rex , while in other places it is known as a teddy . Either way, as both names already reveal, this variety is larger than the rest of its relatives and its fluffy, short coat is reminiscent of bears. However, their character is nothing like that of the dreaded Tyrannosaurus, as they are sweet and affectionate rodents.
Although not all breeds have been mentioned, it is worth noting that there are variations with the same name, as only the type of coat differentiates them: if it is shiny, for example, this word is added to the name of the breed.
care
When choosing guinea pigs as pets, you need to be very careful. For example, if you buy a hairless specimen such as a skinny or baldwin breed , you must consider that the animal cannot tolerate the cold. On the other hand, if you choose long-haired breeds, you will have to brush them frequently, trim their fur and maintain regular hygiene.
As you can see, guinea pigs need a lot of routine care, but they will repay the attention you pay to them, as they are very cute and cute animals. What takes the most time is your hygiene and brushing to eliminate dirt and excess hair. So don’t forget about these responsibilities before adopting one of these cute rodents.
