5 MISTAKES Guinea Pig Owners Make!

[@melissaouvrard6618]

Can we get married and we live with tons of guinea pigs happily ever after?

[@ScottysAnimals]

Mélissa Ouvrard ♡♡♡♡

[@rahelberehe2707]

R u crazy

[@no_melanie28me32]

@@rahelberehe2707 😂😂

[@willowashe]

Can you adopt me?

[@nicoleperrone5208]

Mélissa Ouvrard count me in

[@margoac9476]

In Switzerland it's illegal for guinea pigs to live alone?!?! AWESOMENESS! What don't the Swiss do right when it comes to animal safety!

[@sophierr967]

Lololozi 123 well yeah that’s a risk you should be willing to take before getting a guinea pig

[@margoac9476]

Lololozi 123 then you should try fostering or find another safe home for it if all the sudden you choose to no longer own your pig. There’s usually a local forum on your Facebook if you have one, if not get a friend to advertise for you and often people will look for cage mates for their own passes pig. You can do the same if your pig looses a mate and you want an older pig. Search rescues first. And it’s just the deal, be a little resourceful, because it’s our responsibility to take care of them right.

[@oakherder17]

@Lololozi 123 that's what happened to us and the fifth one unknowingly we were sold a pregnant female (after four boys). Now we have 12 guinea pigs!

[@ScottysAnimals]

@Lololozi 123 what is going to keep going on and on? Having guinea pigs? Let's hope so. Are you saying, that if at some point you do not want guinea pigs anymore, it is better to let your surviving guinea pig live for its remaining years which could even be half of its life or more, living alone? To me no offense, that seems selfish. If you do not want any more guinea pigs then you should actually surrender that surviving guinea pig to a rescue that will be able to find him a friend and a new home. Just my opinion, based on the best interest of the animal people have a much broader support system while the guinea pig is all alone. It is amazing how many guinea pigs suffer because we do not actually empathize with them and put ourselves in their point of view

[@ScottysAnimals]

@Lololozi 123 on the one hand you said she fights with others and then on the other hand you said she was attacked. It is true that I am spoiled, and the Los Angeles Guinea Pig Rescue has so many guinea pigs to choose from without a commitment. However bonding girls isn't 80% or better success rate and if you reach out to rescues in your area or search on Craigslist and the like you should be able to find someone willing to work with you

[@TheLeePotter]

hello-veterinarian here! cucumbers are too high in sugar to be fed everyday. some piggies DO love being alone, but not most. and there is NEVER a reason to give a piggy fruit!!! they do not ever need fruit and high sugar content leads to GI stasis (yes even in moderation- no need to risk it) Also the main reason not to use vitamin C drops at all is because the 2 things that denatures vitamin C is light and water. if you are feeding an appropriate pellet there is no need to add any vitamin C supplements. other than that great job taking care of so many piggies!!!

[@brandilee3641]

I work at a Pet store that sells guinea pigs and whenever someone is interested in them I talk their ear off for about an hour trying to give them this knowledge about what kind of care guinea pigs actually need. I try and make sure people really know what they will be getting into with pigs so that they wont end up rehomed in the future. It is crazy how many people want to get guinea pigs yet know nothing about them! My 3 piggies mean the world to me and I am always researching and watching videos just like this one to make sure I am being the best care giver possible for them ☺ Their lives are completely in our hands so I'm glad people like you and @skinnypigs1 make these informative videos.

[@ScottysAnimals]

Brandi Lee Thank you for everything you do and for all the extra time you take to make sure people know how to care for their piggies.

[@katelynsandoval9194]

Lol right!!! Skinnypig1 i have as a sub to but she never replies even though she says she will try. Id like her knowledge input on stuff i dont see. But, like you said just keep watching new videos to see whats out there.

[@milireich4195]

In the pet store that I bought my 2 guinea pigs, they didn't give us any advice just a booklet, we had to investigate on internet.

[@weirdscience6820]

One pet store woman never pointed out they eat hay and consequently never sold me any, giving me a bag of pellets only and telling me they also eat veggies. I specifically asked if a pig can live alone and was told yes even though she's had pigs since a child and as well as to this day, she has 4. Maybe she thought I'd keep it outside with access to grass? Didn't ask me. I I hadn't researched prior, no, but I also have concerns about information accuracy when I ask myself what wild pigs eat and straight away grass comes to my mind. Which they do. So how come no GP gurus ever mention this as part of their diet, or will give it scant regard. Also from observing my 2 pigs and considering individuality, I'm not sure that one of them really does need a friend..pretty nonchalant toward my other pig, the latter of which looks the opposite, being vocal, interactive and thus would need a companion in my opinion. The other when brought home on its own was already popcorning with no other pigs around.

[@Iamaguienapig]

Good for you! ❤️

[@moicaela132]

Also you might enjoy knowing that pet stores in New Zealand no longer sell live animals and instead host rescue days where you can go in and adopt a rescue pet.

[@MsAdventure14]

YES!!! We need more of that, less of money breeding

[@sikur1337]

should be like that everywhere... so much misinformation for these guys

[@asmrcrafts9279]

Thats amazing!!!!

[@soniapetersen8128]

One mistake I’m making is over feeding veggies. Now I know why their stools are sometimes softer than others. Thank you so much 😊 very informative. And thank you for loving them so much! Bless you heart buddy!

[@ScottysAnimals]

My pleasure, Sonia!

[@ScottysAnimals]

I should have mentioned back then Benebac beneficial bacteria paste will help get the digestive system back on track when you see soft poops. There's a link to it on my website but you can find it even in some pet stores

[@XSaffie_LoveX]

I don't agree that guinea pigs should have unlimited pellets though, they actually do overeat as my vet told me mine were overweight and to cut down the pellets. They get a cup of veggies each per day and a tablespoon of pellets and unlimited hay. Their poops are perfectly healthy, not too wet and not dry and crumbly either. I know someone who feeds theirs a lot of muesli and their pigs are very overweight and one of them has really bad diarrhoea and is slowly dying with a distended stomach ☹️

[@XSaffie_LoveX]

Having said that I use Oxbow pellets and I think she uses commercial brand Muesli (probably Gerty Guinea Pig or something) but I try and tell her anything and she always thinks she's right ☹️ it's such a shame.

[@deedeer5481]

I didn't realise I was over feeding my piggies with veggies. They beg for it and I give in 😏 so from now on its more hay and just a cup each of veg and some nuggets 😄

[@susart7]

Wow! I am 64 yrs old and have had guinea pigs a lot throughout my life! When I was a child we did not care for them properly at all. My parents gave me a book but somehow we still fed iceberg lettuce and no hay. I knew everything already in your video but I sure enjoyed how caring you are about the pigs! Thank you so much for putting this out there!

[@bluexwings]

I bought a guinea pig from Petco when I was about 11. She was ok on her own, but as it turned out, she was pregnant! A month-ish later, I had 6 piggies. lol It was wild. And bless my mom, she turned an old armoir into a pen (lying flat) and as the babies got older she gave them them their own room. (aka a pen that took almost all of the floor space in the guest bedroom) They were very spoiled and happy guinea pigs. 😊💞

[@cindys.6446]

How long did they live? We got one from petco and she was a surrendered pregnant guinea pig. She had 4 babies. They are 4 1/2 now and mom is almost 5 we think. Today one of the guinea pigs is acting tired and very lethargic. I wish Saskia at LA Guinea Pig Rescue was in today because she’s always helped me with my gp’s. Say a prayer for my piggie, Teena. Her Mom Peppa will be lost without her daughter.

[@cristinafurtuna1787]

So funny at the end!

[@positiveaperturestudio4186]

Omg this happened to a friend of mine lol now I get her 2 baby piggies

[@bluexwings]

@@cindys.6446 The babies we adopted out lived a fairly long time (I lost touch with their new owners when I moved 4 years later). Sadly both the mom and the baby piggie we kept for my little sister died when us kids were away visiting my dad for the summer and there was a power outage. :( My mom worked in another area, and didn't realize that they were in trouble until she got home. (This was a 1.5 years-ish after they were born) It was pretty devastating.

[@fourfurrypotatoes]

Sounds like the pet store accidentally put her in the cage with a male piggy at one point 😂

[@sadiemcintosh9364]

Literally just bought a cage from the pet store as a new owner $126 and after watching this I want to cry .

[@jackieesme736]

same me today and i only bought one and didn't get no hay ! i already failed

[@lucagp65]

you can get those panels on Amazon for $35 and the corrugated panel at Home-Depot for $20. It will not let me post a link so you have to google them but those are the exact titles LANGXUN 16pcs Metal Wire Storage and this is the panel at home-depot 72 in. x 36 in. x 5/32 in. Twinwall Plastic Sheet I hope that helps

[@adaywithaleks6556]

@@lucagp65 Thank you!

[@Ptr98]

Never buy anything recommended on a pet store. They just want to sell and they lack a lot of knowledge. We all have done the same mistake honey xx.

[@Kt-cn2rq]

@@Ptr98 same I got the cat carrier as he calls it 😆. I did get the hay and pellets and a castle for it to sleep in. Then I didn't know needed a partner. He was only one in the cage.

[@CitraStitches]

The only thing that ticks me off is that when I got my boy, I asked the pet store if pigs would be alright on their own and they said yes. That's terrible that they lie just to sell animals.

[@ekj24uk]

Assassin's Guilt I know it’s sad. Most pet shop workers hardly know anything about animals :(

[@simplymelissa4556]

I agree , when I got my piggy they said he would fine on his own !!!!!!!!!!!

[@entitledbobcat]

They may have not known and probably wasn’t trying to lie to you to sell. Sometimes they do have to be housed alone due to aggression issues, health, ect. They can live alone, but would be happier with friends.

[@lukegervais6257]

I had a solo pig she still lived 8 yrs

[@Catbirdmom2]

Yes. My husband and daughter came home with one and a small cage. After 2 weeks we had the large cage and after 4 we had a second piggie. She’s not a outgoing as our first (she was inquisitive from day one) but we are working on her.

[@annemarieandrews3522]

my pigs have enough laundry without fleece; I don't like the smell of pine shavings so mix it with paper treated with baking soda, works great. use puppy pads in paper grocery sacks or cardboard box. thanks for the nutritional advice, one piggy is "overweight" and I think bloated by broccoli stems she likes. vet wanted to do an ultrasound but I think you solved the problem, it's not cysts it's bloating, you saved me $700.

[@27Tigress]

In the spring and summer I go picking for my guinea pig. I get him grass and clover and dandilion greens. I get some weird looks when I pick weeds but I don't care anymore what people think because I know how happy it makes my piggy.

[@smooches1368]

Tigress_Free2BeMe m-m-m, dandelion greens. My boys love 'em too!.

[@annanicholson5309]

I do that for my bunnies. I live in an apartment and also drag on tree branches. People look at me weird.

[@smoke1215]

I recently got two female guinea pings for my daughter. I got the large CNC cage, lots of hiding spots, the feeding log, and all of the habitat related items; but, I'm still trying to learn everything I can to take care of her little friends, and give them a good life. I really appreciate all of the information that you've put out over the years! I'm steadily working my way through it!

[@rushy4146]

Interesting tip about holding the nose when putting the pigs down. Ours seem to be pretty convinced that they can fly whenever they see their cage or the floor approaching. Will try it next time.

[@KTplease]

Rushy 41 Mine too, lol! "When pigs fly..."

[@ValosarX]

Yeah this is a good tip my pigs also seem to love the nose dive.

[@kellym9301]

Yes! Having the cage higher will help and this nose-gap method. I have mine in a huge rabbit cage that has a playpen extension. I have looked everywhere for the coroplast and cannot find it in my area so that right there (plus aaaaalllll of the helpful tips) is enough valuable information for me to subscribe!

[@gloriacoodood2287]

Kelly Mack same i have that cage!!

[@sigguy1361]

Rushy 41 we started putting our piggies in their cage butt first so they couldn’t fly out. But I like this idea. 👍

[@9NOTW]

I love this guy he's handsome, humble, and knows what he's talking about.

[@AnnaxGaming]

not exactly. his info about them having 50mg of vitamin-c counts as an overdose and can give them the same symptoms as if they got too little vitamin-c. an adult guinea pig should only have 5-10mg per kg (2 pounds). btw if ya don't believe me, just search up like every research that has been done of vitamin-c overdoses and guinea pigs. actually a bit pissed how someone like him that work with these creatures so much spreads false and dangerous information that can risk ppl's pets

[@constancemyers5298]

@@AnnaxGaming Actually there are many opinions on this subject. Some veterinarian websites recommend 50mg and some recommend less. I am not sure where you read that 50 mg would cause an overdose. I have not seen that. I certainly do not believe 50 mg would be dangerous based on my research but you do you and that is fine.

[@HeatherClarkafterdark]

I love guinea pigs, they are very special little creatures.

[@ScottysAnimals]

They sure are, Heather

[@angelaprice8408]

Addyguingvufbhjuyy1ytothefgfgfh

[@AGwen10]

I literally watched this whole video! I have ADD and no way I could watch a 35 minute video. Thank you for the detailed info! We just got 2 guinea pigs for our daughter. They are young and we are trying to learn the best ways to keep them happy and do the right things for them. You were interesting to listen to, almost like you had me in a darn trance. Thanks for what you do. It shows you are a caring person.

[@robnlynchburgvaable]

It's so great to see that I am not the only guy as dedicated to these wonderful animals. Love your channel.

[@ScottysAnimals]

Rob Newsome google "real men love guinea pigs" lolz but 4 real

[@kynleegreen5123]

I just got my first two guinea pigs and started watching you today to try to learn more about taking care of them

[@kellyk.3886]

I agree with the "keep learning" part. Someone gave me 2 guinea pigs because they had 4 (2 separate bonded pairs) and were overwhelmed. I researched them to see if I thought they'd be a good fit (I previously only had dogs and fish). But even with all the research I have still continued to learn and look back to when I got them 3 years ago and mistakes I had made (luckily very minor) or things I didn't know!

[@cuddleshobbies6642]

Make sure to do all research on all animals you get small rodents and fish are the most mistreated and most misunderstood

[@rosemonarch4749]

I wanted my girls to have the best space possible, theirs isn’t bad, but now they’ve grown I’d like them to have the very best - I was shopping for a new habitat and searched on KZbin for reviews. I came across your video and you’ve made up my mind, thank you so much. I’m also glad I was right about the outdoors, I was worried I was overprotective, but you confirmed my view that it’s something to do for a limited time, not all the time. I’ll also be careful with the veggies and give them more green pepper and less carrot. I’ll also try giving them their vitamin C as you suggested. . Thanks again, you’ve already made me a better piggy friend. Very, very much appreciated. (Subscribed.😊)

[@brigidscaldron]

I had no idea how much care they needed, so I’m really glad to have found your channel! We just adopted our piggies yesterday and with this information, we can give them the best care now for the rest of their lives!

[@Kwood10]

Your passion for Guinea pigs warms my heart . They are sweet & adorable & deserve the best care.

[@Charlied60Char]

We just adopted 3 piggies... I haven't had piggies since I was 10. My kids and I are very excited and love them. I am loving your videos they are so informative.

[@CapysGardenShop]

I’ve noticed that my pigs love the brown paper that comes stuffed in many Amazon boxes. I crumple it a little & just lay it over one end of the cage & they love playing around w/ it! Great vid!

[@ScottysAnimals]

Far Side Character 0427 Brown paper lunch bags stuffed with hay keep them busy for days but don't let them get too dirty and peed on

[@CapysGardenShop]

Scotty's Animals ....Of course! 😜

[@faith5563]

My crazy cats love boxes & the brown paper

[@vanessa01880]

Thank you so much for this video! We have 2 guinea pigs. One died 2 days ago of gas I believe and we didn't know. Sunday he was great. Monday he was sick, Tuesday he was gone. What was is super sad though is that I brought him to the emergency vet 1 month ago and paid $600 because he had an infection. He needed anesthesia and an x-ray to check what it was. We loved him so we did it. Those guys are like our own kids. Vet prices are just insane.

[@anniet494]

i layed with my guinea pig and started hearing chewing, i was confused so i put them away, and when i wake up that morning i have BANGS.. i should have left them the way they were but no i tried to fix them.. and now? lol

[@annierichardson5769]

Omg 😭🤣

[@shanleeDD]

Lol oh my gosh, awe so funny but devastating.

[@saoirsetorr7884]

@chu Harry fringe

[@shanleeDD]

Bangs are the same word for "fringe". Hope that helps.

[@jeannettereahm6608]

This video is so worthwhile. I am inheriting 2 guinea pigs and I want to make them happy and keep them healthy. Valuable information . Thank you so much.

[@susanayers880]

i also use fleece and when i wash it i use unscented laundry soap and i change the bedding every day! i give my gunea pigs red peppers, romaine lettuce, red leaf lettuce, vitamin c tablets, they have floor time for 2 hrs a day for i always clean thier cage and i take them to the vet every yr! i have 2 gunea pugs females, i love my girls!they are work and when you dont get very much money its hard! i also give my gunea pigs oxbow pellets 2 tablespoons each pig per day, they get a half carrots long wise once a week and a small slice of apples cut in to 2 and they get small amount of kale once a week!

[@dust_is_lost1686]

i have two little boys :) they're about 4 months old now and they're honestly the sweetest. they're brothers and they LOVE floor time- they always run around like crazy. thanks for the tips!

[@d1an3m0rr1s0n]

I really like this video, full of great information, especially for new owners! You do a great job stressing the subtle signs of illness. I can't count how many times I have put a pig in the vet carrier and next to my bed because I thought he made a funny breathing noise, I might be a little hyper vigilant, but I have caught all health problems with my pigs super early! I rather show up at the vet with a healthy pig who is faking sick than a sick pig faking health. We can do everything right for our pigs and sometimes they still get sick. Your pigs are all super cute btw! :)

[@ScottysAnimals]

Thank you for the sweet comment Diane! It is definitely better to be safe than sorry. I am a hypochondriac Guinea pig papa and proud of it

[@d1an3m0rr1s0n]

Glad I'm not alone in being proud of my guinea pig induced neurosis.

[@ScottysAnimals]

Diane Morrison lolz It comes with the territory

[@entitledbobcat]

Diane Morrison I would do something similar with my last piggy who had a neurological disorder. She would have moments where it would get bad out of nowhere. I wouldn’t put her in a travel carrier but instead I would get a heating pad and “her” blanket. Then I would put pillows and large objects to block off any exits and slept on the floor next to her. If she was sick, she would always lay with me and put her head down on me like a pillow. She would do this for me too if I was feeling down. Usually she would get up in an hour after just laying there with her and be running around again just fine. I have to confine her to a space because she would go under my run to run around in circles and would do this for hours. It isn’t easy getting her out from under there so that was always annoying.

[@katelynsandoval9194]

Thanks for sharing you are super correct! Smart lady here! I am glad to know your piggies are good just based off you.

[@sandydg350762]

Thank you so much for this information! I recently took in my granddaughter's guinea pig and I've been making the mistakes of putting vitamin c in the water and feeding spinach. I will fix both immediately.

[@claytont0]

28:54 'blow dry with the conditioner makes their hair REALLY soft' ⁱ ʰᵃᵛᵉ ˢᵏⁱⁿⁿʸ ᵖⁱᵍˢ....

[@jaycollins8640]

Addisons Animals you do not want to blow dry the cavies anyways, it can overheat them and cause serious burns, NEVER blow dry them.

[@imnotrude0357]

Jay Collins that’s actually not true...it’s best if you blow dry them after a bath and most guinea pigs won’t mind it and to prevent burning the blow dryer should be set to a low or medium temp.

[@goldeneclipse1884]

Jay Collins they can be blowed dried but the you much put the blow dryer on medium heat

[@Eyewonder3210]

Stopped in to study what is the proper care before I adopted 2, to make sure I do it right. Very informative, thank you.

[@imaDUCKIE11]

Also I highly recommend to look into fleece blankets/bedding as a replacement to pine shavings. Mine loves his so much he starts to popcorn as I'm putting his clean one in :)

[@karenmanh]

I agree, we went with fleece (I sewed onto towels and made a guineadad), but daily washing for me with one fleece per day or two is ok. he has too many animals to make that happen.

[@nicolecourtney8688]

Awe mine loves it so much more as well! I found XL washable puppy pads that i put under the fleece for more absorption 💞 and they love beanies as their little cozy spot lol. I bought a few at the dollar store and they are basically the same as one of those cozy things and they work for a cuddle sack too

[@ThevAmpIre3m0]

I last my hamster last July. Ever since I got her I had been researching about how to properly care for a hamster. It was the first time I ever actually took care of an animal on my own and I only hope I gave her a better life than she would have had in that tiny plastic box at the pet store or in the hands of a child in a tiny pet store cage. Now I feel ready to start learning about how to care for a guinea pig and soon I hope I can adopt one of these rescues to love and care for in the future! Thanks for the detailed video! 😊

[@janetwalters7340]

A great video. I'm a new owner of 2 wonderful little guinea pigs which I love. Have done a lot of research to help me learn to take care of them. Only thing I was doing wrong was not picking the up daily. I thought I would stress them out. But now I know I can handle them daily they will be getting a lot of love from now on. Again thanks for the video.

[@alexisrussell3966]

Iv got three male guinea pigs living together and they have never had a fight, they absolutely love each other and especially floor time, I let them out and they run around and explore. I do put down hides but but they usually never use them, they love just eating hay and running around and playing, they have so much energy😂 I learnt so much from this video!

[@equineaddict6654]

I'm super glad I found this video. I have two male guinea pigs, snuggles and meeko, they don't fight because they grew up in the same cage. Thnx for making these videos, I learn alot

[@ScottysAnimals]

My pleasure, Equine addict

[@melanielouise6937]

I got 2 baby boys yesterday.. also got a pregnant woman piggy, your videos teach so much!!

[@rosalie2762]

Actually I’m preparing for adopting a guineapig 😊at the end of this year for my son’s birthday. I always love to prepare for these things long before i decide on it. Mostly because i want to take care of animals well and know everything i need to know beforehand so I don’t make any mistakes . I think animals are precious and should be always taken the best care of 🥰. And teach my son to do the same. 👍🏼

[@bre2186]

hey, idk if you’ll see this since it’s been awhile haha but i wanted to know if you are just getting one or planning on getting two. i want a guinea pig but i feel like i only have the space for one and don’t want to cause my guinea pig any distress.

[@grahamjones6774]

They get depressed if they're by themselves it doesnt matter how much love you give them we rescued one and as soon as we got him a little buddy he's super happy and all protective its no extra work and the piggies are happy🤟

[@bre2186]

@@grahamjones6774 yeah i later decided i’m going to get two. i really want guinea pigs and i would just hate myself to know i’m hurting it

[@grahamjones6774]

@@bre2186 good on you they are freakn awesome😁

[@ZenaBattaglia]

What I do is research when I’m embarking on something new. I never rely on information from floorwalkers of any kind, they are only there to sell a product not to school you. I just got my two Peruvian piggies today, they are bonded brothers. Thank you for this enlightened video. I’m so glad I waited on buying the cage. I will be going to Home Depot tomorrow.

[@abbie1990b]

How cute are you!! And you made guinea pig tshirts too. You look like the coolest sweetest guy ever! Wish I could come and visit this rescue. Great video x

[@ScottysAnimals]

Thank you Abbie! Check out our Los Angeles Guinea Pig Rescue KZbin channel

[@aliciaramirez5289]

I just bought my son a guinea pig his name is mango and I'm so happy I watched this video, immediately after watching a couple mins of your video I ordered him a bigger cage, thank God for amazon prime next day shipping. I want to give mango his best and happy life.

[@bigboi7607]

Glad that i came across this video. I just adopted guinea pig from my friend that moving to another province. I hope i can be a good father for her.

[@ScottysAnimals]

I'm sure you can Gus Gus! You should consider finding her another friend. Guinea pigs should never live alone and it is not difficult to Bond girls. If you check your local animal shelters, Petfinder or search for a rescue near by. It is best if you can have a playdate with no commitments to make sure your girl will get along with the new one but there's an 80% chance of success

[@bigboi7607]

@@ScottysAnimals i have couple playdates for her this month, to find her a new friend. hope she will get along with some of them haha. she still shy in the new place.

[@mro55]

First time piggy owner (got 2 last week). Watched many videos on KZbin but have to say, yours was one of the best. Especially informative on food, nutrition and handling. Thank you very much ❤️

[@mariannelovesyoou]

Wish new guinea pig parents had to watch this! I have 4 piggies. 2 girls and 2 boys, in separate cages. I have two 3x4 cages. They LOVE it so much. ❤️

[@gisellefrias2686]

I was just about to get one for my kid because he asked for an animal companion but something told to look up info and I'm glad. I didn't know I needed at least 2 guineas and so many other things that never would've crossed my mind that they needed if I hadn't looked it up

[@roncollins4908]

Thanks for the great video. My son went off to college and now I'm a parent of two Guinea pigs. I've grown quite attached to them and want to do good by them. They tend to not get along together, so I built two double decker condo's right next to each other so they keep each other company without fighting. Each of them have there own 10 square feet to roam equipped with webcams, so I can check on them while I'm away. The food tips were helpful, because I've been spoiling them with plenty of fresh veggies along with the staples you suggested including the vitamin c. I now have confidence I'm feeding them appropriately and they have decent amount of space. Keep up the videos.

[@Vintagekindagirl3]

Thank you for this video! I am a new guinea pig parent and I have been watching your videos and Saskia at LAGPR as well. All of these videos and articles are helping me make good decisions and care for my sweet pets.

[@CatsEyeBeauty]

I'm a new Guinea pig owner, too! I accidentally fed them iceberg lettuce, but now I am trying fresh parsley and kale. They love apples and eat them right out of my hand! How are your little ones doing?

[@marilynsears7611]

Years back I made cages from stove racks and zip ties. Any scrap or used appliance store will sell them. I’m not sure if all that is still available but it works pretty well! Fridge shelving works too.

[@valerenta]

Great video! I'm in Iowa, but I've been following the NorCal rescue situation closely. It's so wonderful that you are spending so much time on education. I have 6 rescued guinea pigs from a local hoarding situation. Just love them.

[@ScottysAnimals]

valerenta It is our pleasure and our mission

[@cindys.6446]

Thank goodness Iowa has you, best wishes from Los Angeles.

[@LaPlaztique]

Scotty, where have you been all my life? True guinea pig lover soul mates! Thank you for all you and Saskia do! Xx

[@ScottysAnimals]

You're welcome Plaztique!

[@celizabeth542]

*watches whole video without having a guinea pig nor intending to have one* I'm more of a rabbit person but they seem happy with you.

[@amandasmith-hatch5324]

I missed the tell-tale signs of a painful mouth, w/ my 6 yr. old male gp. He lost half his body weight in a week, just because I didn't notice he was mouthing his food but not ingesting it. Thanks to a great vet & an emergency dental, he's still with me. You've really got to pay attention with these little guys!

[@blo0dri0t9]

I’ve had my guinea pig since I was 11 and I’ve never known anything about proper care for them. I feel so bad that I’ve been accidentally treating her so badly for such a long time.

[@jupiterthesun3217]

Don’t feel bad, you’re a human being and you have done what you believed to be right and I’m absolutely sure that your guinea pig loves you and that’s the most important thing for any creature, knowing everything about everything is impossible but what you have done out of love was enough and that’s the truth .

[@magmae9395]

Me too.....😢😢

[@lindseyaguilar7909]

Same she doesn’t even have a friend 😢😢😢

[@nicolecourtney8688]

You can only work with the information you have! Dont feel to bad im sure your baby loves you because you obviously care! Best luck to you

[@scarlettd.6605]

Thank you, I love the info You’ve given. We just love the LA guinea pig rescue. You helped us 3 years ago when we rescued two guinea pigs that were both pregnant. We didn’t know both girls were pregnant and the rescue took 2 of the babies. We could only keep 7 pigs comfortably and you helped us. ❤️

[@kellyb4617]

I’m no guinea pig expert but pine is not good for their respiratory system, I’ve learned aspen is the best bedding for them. Also try guineadad liners they are antibacterial specifically designed for guinea pigs. Yes more laundry but ultimately you save hundreds on overpriced shavings. 👍

[@ScottysAnimals]

As long as it is kiln-dried Pine it is fine. Aspen is also good but it's not a soft

[@darlene1187]

We have used pine shavings for years, without any issue - experimenting with fleece at the moment.

[@darlene1187]

Kelly B Have had guinea pigs on and off for decades. As much as possible, we train the Guinea Pigs to corner poop so we only have to clean the corners. We do that twice a day...takes only a few moments, each time. Shavings last a long time, in our home. The thing that we find difficult about the fleece is that the fur clogs the washer and drier. We can get everything off the fleece except for the fur, prior to putting them into the wash. For us, shavings are cheap compared to the washer and drier having to be repaired or replaced. How do others deal with so much fur on the fleece, going into the washer and drier?

[@kellyb4617]

Darlene MacDonald Never had any issues with the washer or dryer. Regardless my guinea pigs seem much happier living in fleece vs. shavings and that’s all that matters to me.

[@faith5563]

@@darlene1187 Never purchase a GE washer

[@flamingohurricane7602]

Excellent video! This should be mandatory viewing for anyone thinking of getting piggies. Scotty-How do you control flies in piggie area? Flies come in from outside (yay Texas life)-I fully clean cage twice weekly and poop sweep/spot clean daily. Recently changed to kiln dried pine (thanks to your teaching), but flies still seem to love it inside. I’m close to calling pest guy for help but don’t want chemicals around my pets (I also have a cockatiel that looks just like BB and 2 dogs).

[@sct3339]

Thank you for taking the time to make this video I am a Brandy new mama of two beautiful little boys and your video has helped me tremendously on what to do and not to do and I’ve already made some big mistakes but now I won’t thanks to you 😁

[@lindasapiecha2515]

Ive just retired and have adopted 3 female pigges they now how a very spacious habitat good food and i think a good home thanks to watching your vids 👍

[@susanaponte1579]

Scotty, you know you can just soak 3 or 4 igloo in the bathtub with about 2 or 3 cups of white vinegar and just wash them with a sponge and mild dish soap. They come out clean, just use a bottle brush in the top little cubes and let them dry. That should do it and you just wipe them with vinegar water solution every week or so. I do know that they don't have great ventilation though, but they're o.k. for a little privacy in a well ventilated cage. Great video! I have a snack shack for my piggies and stuff it full of treat hay and I put their regular Timothy in a haypile and they love it!

[@ScottysAnimals]

Susan Aponte yes, mine are filthy, I'll try it

[@colleendemboske7749]

Susan Aponte Awesome tip!!

[@kellym9301]

What is treat hay? Also, are otc treats filled with harmful materials for the guineas to digest? The is a "natural" brand out now but it does have dandelion and sticky substance in it.

[@ladyinredlace]

Susan I didnt understand what u were trying to say about bathing them. Could u please explain?

[@camielise4421]

My daughter and I are planning on getting 2 guinea pigs this summer for her birthday. Since she’s older and wants to care for something. I’m glad I found this. You definitely covered things I haven’t read about yet. ❤️

[@elirynn6418]

the way you talk about them is precious

[@edilisnegron9258]

I didn’t know it was so hard to care for a Guinea pig. You are an expert on Guinea pigs & I can see your love for them. God bless you. 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼👍😊

[@crunchycee]

Thank you for this video! I can tell you really love all your animals and it’s so cute how you interact with them. We learned a lot from what you shared and feel like we are on track with our three piggies.

[@ScottysAnimals]

You're welcome Cynthia! You can always ask questions in the comments here and there are so many wonderful guinea pig lovers that will answer you with thoughtful intelligent response based on their experience

[@untetheredsoul4335]

Such wonderful advice Scotty! I love how kind and compassionate you are towards these dear little things. I'm in Australia and have 4 boys left after having many. My dear fluffies divide their time between C&C cages indoors and their outdoor runs. Where they are at any given time is dependent on the day weather. I monitor them heavily when outdoors. Tonight as I watch your video my boys are taking it in turn to roam free in a 3x3 meter area. My Aussie guinea pigs must be brave because it's dark and they are making full use of the enclosure without fear. I send you and your Guinea pigs much love and all the best always.

[@Andresfin]

I got an older girl (she was four when I adopted her and now she is 5 1/2 I got her a cagemate and all they did was fight I tried for 3 months did all I could to get them to live together I got them bigger cages, more treats, different toys, and a huge play pen but they would not stop fighting. I still have the other girl her name is Skunk but she now lives with another girl and they get along great. My Elphaba is just a grumpy old woman 😂 I love her and take her out all the time, give her lots of love and tons of toys. I just don't know why she hates other guinea pigs so much???

[@katelynsandoval9194]

My skinny pig is doing this and she isn't old lol I even had them be side by side. They're a tad bit sweet to each other. I even waited 2/3 weeks. I removed a cube from skinny pig's cage and she goes into Dolly's cage which is way pigger 😔..(working on that) 2 by 3... Dolly is a Peruvian and is 5mths old. Miss. Piggy is about 3. Dunno. She looked pig then when i brought her home she looked smal. They fought. It could of been because i did not sent clean Dolly's new c&c cage. I should have removed everything. Though i doubt it would have mattered bec she is just like yours. Young and grumpy though lol

[@Betterme3132]

Yeah my piggy is only a year old and I can't pair her she loves being the only one. I hated seeing her so stressed with the other piggy

[@FurrypawsAngel]

@@katelynsandoval9194 when you introduce them you have to do it in a common are where there is neither of the pigs smells because the one will be aggressive if he feels like someone is messing with his stuff.so just introduce on like the bathroom floor or something

[@4turtels846]

@@FurrypawsAngel I use the bathtub because they cant wonder

[@cme1027]

I hv the same issue with my girl..

[@Bobbleheadbean]

I wanted to say thank you so much because I’m about to move and I’m so excited to have a pet again for the first time in a long time. I went to the pet store and talked to a few people and they didn’t know all of this and told me a few things that arent true. I’m so thankful to find this page💚

[@nonamesinenomine]

Love this comment ...I just moved into a new apartment (not supposed to have pets but still gonna😅) it's a 1 bed room but I don't really use the living room I'll just give it to them ..only thing I worry about sometimes is they are prone to respiratory problems... So my neighbor needs to stop smoking inside and the landlord shouldve cleaned the dust out of the radiator

[@Annelyelizzy]

There’s this liiiitle piece of them that thinks “you’re gonna eat me someday” I guess now is a good time to stop looking at mr Miyagi and saying “gosh you’re so cute I could just eat you!”

[@deborahray-roberts6037]

We got our guinea pig from a cousin who couldn't care for him any more. Unfortunately, he lives alone as my husband won't let me get another one. I try to interact with him every time I walk by his cage. He's so cute. He's the first guinea pig I've ever had, and he has been a joy to learn about. I did learn today that I'm feeding him too many veggies. (My daughter says I'm spoiling him.) I appreciate your video very much as it will help me care for Oreo better. Thank you!!

[@ChilupaKing]

Thanks for the tips. I like your idea of putting them on tables. Just got my 2 males to get along, and now I am trying to do more for them

[@lindakralova1954]

Thank you for the video Scotty, very informative. I am a new owner of two guinea pig baby boys from Prague, Czech Republic. We got the piggies for our kids (8 and 5) as pets, but I learn so much about them every day and its very sweet to have them around. I hope I do everything right for them so they feel secure and happy in our home. Thank you. Linda

[@iviraM17]

Wow this is the most helpful guinea pig video I’ve ever seen. Thank you so much.

[@trinzfriendz]

You made my day today. I have become defacto pig foster during Spring Break and other holidays at our elementary school for the last 15 years. You are my new Guinea Guru!😁

[@cindyp.9030]

There are so many thing I am learning about the proper way to care for these adorable little creatures. Can't believe how many mistakes we were making with them in the past. I just got the vitamin C and mine loves it. Thank you for all of the great information. Love your cuddle sacks too, having trouble finding ones big enough for piggies.

[@chinalebeau8021]

Never had a small animal before, just got a guinea pig!! Found ur vid and clicked IMMEDIATELY because I want him to be as happy and cared for as possible!! Just gave him a watermelon snack bc I found out they like watermelon 😘

[@CallumsCorner.]

Just got 3 pigs, great tips! Subbed as you seem like a nice bloke.

[@ScottysAnimals]

Congratulations! I hope they are girls, because boys tend to fight unless they are in pairs

[@jayf5084]

@@ScottysAnimals I have a boy and girl, the RSPCA rescued them and she was pregnant when they took them in, they lived together and after the babies grew up a little, he was neutered, then later on, I adopted them together and they get on unbelievably well. I assume this is OK as they can't breed, I have had them for a year now

[@catherinepelletierbrown5724]

Wow I got 1/

[@clhwhiffleball4418]

@@ScottysAnimals uhhh. We got 2 boy pigs. A young 6 month old and another young 1 year old. They dont even fight!

[@sarahisantiago1120]

Can you draw other video taking care of guinea pigs

[@triplechinnn4726]

I am currently keeping a guinea pig for a family member and I am doing research on how to properly care for one. I had one before, she was an old lady, and I miss her so much. Watching your videos I can see the mistakes that I made and the ones that I am currently making now. As an animal lover, I need to make sure I am doing everything correctly for the time I do have her.

[@Bangoloff]

you seem like a nice guy. thanks for defining what C&C means.... I have heard that like, on the last 10 videos and you actually explained it.Thank you.

[@ScottysAnimals]

On my website I have a video that shows you step-by-step how to build one

[@caitlinwyeth8767]

my 2 guinea pigs live in a 32sq ft cage and it’s my whole shed , at nights i lock them in their 6sq ft hutch but from 7am-11pm they have their hutch and the remaining 24sq foot of the hutch . in winter it’s heated and in summer it’s cooled . the person i got them from kept them in their 6sq ft hutch 24/7 so it was a massive difference for them. they both love it in there and i wouldn’t ever trade it for anything else :)

[@mewmewtoastmahgoats2101]

I'm not currently a Guinea pig owner. But now i know! "The More You Know!" *sooting star with rainbow trail*

[@trixie507]

:):)

[@epilepsylizard2469]

His confidence has gotten so much better x

[@TheAbcedees]

I love you already man. You look like you own a big old Harley, and here you are talking about guinea pigs ❤️ Oh, and I subscribed, of course!

[@amandaslife1259]

Thank you so much for all those tips..I literally just got my baby he is precious! Do furry and soft cuddly and loving already loves his mama...I want to give him the best life possible..much appreciated!!!

[@ScottysAnimals]

Www.scottysanimals.com care guide

[@colleenkrz3]

i use fleece bedding and it’s so much less mess

[@savanajo853]

colleen krzemien that is so false (unless I’m totally doing it wrong) 😂 I use fleece with my pigs and bedding with my hedgehog and the fleece is so messy compared to bedding

[@colleenkrz3]

Savana Weimer for me the paper bedding would get all over my bedroom and the house and i was having to vacuum the whole house everyday

[@LiveFaustDieJung]

What if your pig likes to eat bedding?

[@LiveFaustDieJung]

Fabric bedding and beds huts etc I can’t give them to him he eats them

[@oldsoulmodernworld5320]

I just rescued/ adopted 2 guinea pigs and the shredded bedding that came home with them triggered my allergies bad. I switched to fleece and it was like night and day 🙈

[@deborahmack6662]

I'm super happy I found you Scotty. When I was a young girl my next door neighbor raised Guinea pigs. I chose my 1st one from her litter. She was silky black and white named Princess. She was super sweet. But I found out I was allergic to her. 😥 I had to surrender her to a pet shop. It broke my heart. This was way back in 1979. 😥 Back then there was no such thing as a rescue or shelter. Thank you for all you and Shaska do.❤💋

[@ScottysAnimals]

You are welcome Deborah!

[@amberpiece8176]

This was soooo helpful !!! I just got 3 girls so I just want to do right by them! Thank you sooo much for this !!

[@GOBIAS.INDUSTRIES.]

This is, by far, the most most informative video out there on guinea pig care! Even better, you seem like a legit good dude, which makes me appreciate your content even more. You've got a subscriber!

[@dmvthrax4601]

how do you feel about pigs free roaming? I proofed my apartment of all things harmfull and let my piggies run around free and keep the cage area open so they can come and go. they totally don't go bathroom on my floor at all they both always go in the cage . they seem to love it and at this point I would feel bad caging them in they sprint around in cirlces through my apartment all the time. I know that people don't do it a lot but I don't see the harm In it anymore

[@oki158]

My sister did that with her rat. She came inside with her boots and just before she took them off her rat wa so happy to see her he ran up behind her and she took a step back and fractured his skull $2,000 in vet fees later.... I personally would be to scared to have a roaming guniea

[@XSaffie_LoveX]

I would love to if we had the space and also if we didn't have a cat lol. He says you can't use a big cage to compensate for not being able to free roam but honestly that's our only choice. Ours have about 12 square feet of space to run about in their cage. In the summer, I try to bring them outside on the grass.

[@Mimi-ln6ci]

DMV thrax maybe get a dog for that !

[@supportlittleadventures69]

Poop

[@jamieisnotokay3298]

I would put a baby gate or just fence off the front door. Then, you can know if your piggies are near you, and safely take off your shoes. Guinea pigs are small. Just be careful, and you should be fine.

[@EllTeeful]

New piggy owner here (got my first two about 7 weeks ago, plus another two last weekend 😬) and I can't stop watching yours and the LA sanctuary videos! So much amazing information available to all of us owners. I feel like I'm guinea pig obsessed, they're just such amazing animals. Thank you so much for these videos as they have really helped me be a better piggy mum. Keep up the good work

[@lizziegriswold201]

I have 2 female guinea pigs, they are sisters from the same litter, and they live in a c&c cage the same size as my full bed. They love it and don’t have any problems with having too big of a cage

[@judycyg6912]

Scotty, well done explaining guinea pig owner mistakes. This was very helpful in learning what we do right and what we need to change. Took lots of notes!

[@alemag87]

Hey Scotty! I loved the video, I'm a new piggie owner with 2 brothers in a large rabbit cage, indoors. You've given me a lot of great ideas to increase the guys well-being. Keep it up, Bro! ;)

[@Bonez1999]

Your videos are great!! We're adding 2 piggies to the family this weekend, and the wife and I have absolutely BINGED on your videos... We've learned so much! Our daughters are gonna fall in love! Thank you!

[@shannonguerrero9273]

THANKS SO MUCH,I'VE JUST GOT MY FIRST GUNIE PIG,HE IS AND HAS HIS OWN PERSONALITY, THANKS A LOT FOR THE GREAT INFORMATION, GOING TO GO GET OUR SUPPLIES, AS YOU SHOULD ME, SAVED ME SLOT OF CONFUSION.

[@ScottysAnimals]

also check out my website: www.scottysanimals.com/ links there, and Skinnypigs1 Medical Kit video :)

[@jhennicide]

as a young child, i didn't understand at the time but the people i got my first pig from separated their two pigs and i got just the one. we had a HUGE custom made glass cage at the time. then in my early 20s, i decided to get another. i had that standard "first pet guinea" cage and when i learned more about guinea pigs, i custom built a large fenced in area and left the door open so that she could free roam. i then litter trained her, kept the inside of the cage all soft bedding and had all of the food and fun in the open area. at the time, i only had one (which i knew wasn't ideal) but i gave her all the extra attention i could as well as she interacted with our kitten at the time and i taught her tricks! i cannot not wait to have guinea pigS again one day!

[@amandasainsbury5512]

I was given a pig that wasn't well cared for before me. He refuses any veggies. I've tried everything. I'm not giving up but I feel bad for the little guy bc I'm guessing he was never offered veggies before. I'm looking into getting another one so he has a buddy since I know they don't like to live alone. I gave him a major upgrade with his enclosure and we love him to death. Love this channel!

[@juliag5412]

I really hope you got him a buddy. Loneliness can kill Guinea pigs.

[@lilyyan5462]

My guinea used to refuse veggies too. I cut the veggies into very very very tiny pieces and mixed it into the pellets so she would accidentally eat them and learn what veggies were. She now eats veggies all the time and loves them! it just takes time and patience. Good luck!

[@kerifurr1620]

I have one when i first got her she didnt want a veggy i started with a sweet pepper and zuccinie and rommaine lettuce try hand feeding and go from there mine is now eating with no trouble hope all works

[@faith5563]

Try fresh dandelions & fresh green grasses

[@victoriavalentine1490]

This video has been very helpful. I inherited Cocoa when my niece moved in with us 3 months ago. I have NO CLUE how to care for a Guinea pig. I am so thankful that I watched this because sweet Cocoa has definitely been neglected. I will definitely be making her a bigger cage and make a point to have more bonding time with her. Hopefully I can convince my husband to get her a friend. My cat is very interested in her 😁. Again, thank you for taking the time to make this informative video for those of us who don't know where to begin.

[@anonymous.youtuber]

You’re truly someone who genuinely loves animals, that quite obvious! Thank you for the interesting information. I just subscribed !

[@shanarodriguez474]

Thank you so much for this video. I just adopted 2 guinea pigs (mom and daughter) and I've never had one before so I wanna make sure I'm doing everything right. I love them so much already! After hearing so many different owners opinions I figured I'd come on here to get more answers. This really helped!