Your Pet Calendar of Events Guinea Pigs Guinea pigs are considered rodents and relatives of rats and mice. They come from Peru in the Andes Mountains. The name the Peruvian Indians gave them is cavy. They do make noises such as oinks, whistles, snorts, and honks. It is believed this is why they are called pigs.
Cavies can become as tame as rabbits if handled frequently.
They will not, however, seek attention, follow you or be housebroken. Guinea pigs can be purchased at your local pet store either as a baby or adult. Your best bet is to purchase a young cavy and pick the calmest one you can find. They will scamper away when you try to pick up a baby but one that squeals and kicks when you pick it up may have a bad temperament. A well-socialized cavy will purr when scratched behind the ears.