Skip to main content
A Singapore Government Agency Website How to identify
Official website links end with .gov.sg
Government agencies communicate via .gov.sg websites (e.g. go.gov.sg/open). Trusted websites
Secure websites use HTTPS
Look for a lock () or https:// as an added precaution. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

Government officials will never ask you to transfer money or disclose bank log-in details over a phone call.

Call the 24/7 ScamShield Helpline at 1799 if you are unsure if something is a scam.

Animal and Veterinary Service (AVS)

Caring for a guinea pig

About feeding, housing, enrichment, and veterinary care for guinea pigs

Last updated 13 January 2026
A photograph of a black and white guinea pig with its paws on a metal bowl filled with pellets

Nutrition for a guinea pig

Guinea pigs are herbivores. Provide fresh clean water daily, and feed appropriate diets.

  • (Approximately 80% of diet) High-fiber, low calcium grass hay, such as timothy and orchard grass hay for adults.

    • Younger guinea pigs can be fed with alfalfa hay which has higher calcium and protein content. Feeding too much alfalfa hay to adults can lead to obesity and other health-related issues.

  • Some fresh vegetables such as dark leafy greens. Make sure to research on which vegetables are safe for your guinea pig.

  • A small amount of commercial pellets.

  • Fruits – use sparingly as treats. Overconsumption can lead to health issues.

  • Guinea pigs require vitamin C from vegetable sources or supplements.

    • Unlike other small mammals, they are unable to make their own vitamin C. This means that it is essential to provide vitamin C supplementation in their diet.

Enclosure for a guinea pig

Their enclosures should reflect their natural behaviour as closely as possible, and provide them opportunities to do so.

A photograph of a guinea pigs enclosure set-up. There are hideouts, hay, waterbowls present in the set-up.

Cage

  • Provide enough horizontal space for them to move around.

Accessories

  • Provide adequate hiding spaces and comfortable bedding.

Compatibility with other animals

  • Guinea pigs are social animals and should ideally by housed together with other guinea pigs of the same sex.

Environment

  • Provide a sturdy, solid flooring to prevent bumblefoot.

Enrichment for a guinea pig

Provide plenty of opportunities for your guinea pigs to exhibit their normal behaviours such as foraging and chewing/gnawing.

Veterinary care for a guinea pig

Bring your guinea pigs to the vet for regular health checks.

Seek medical help if you observe any signs of illness in your guinea pigs, such as:

  • Lethargy

  • Inappetence

  • Abnormal breathing

  • Abnormal or no faecal droppings and/or urine

  • Bloated abdomen

  • Head tilt/shaking

  • Lameness

  • Overgrown teeth and nails

A infographic titled 8 ways to be a good guinea pig owner
Resources:

Infographic: 8 Ways to be a Good Guinea Pig Owner [PDF, 528KB]