In an effort to make their use O.K., their species have been unfairly maligned. But these little creatures can form bonds as deep and loving as the more traditional pets. Like any animal, though, they have special care and medical needs that need to be understood before they re brought home. All small mammals can, and should be spayed and neutered. It inhibits a natural tendency to fight newcomers to their surroundings, ends their amazing ability to procreate, and even lowers the risk of contracting some cancers that plague their kind.
Guinea pigs are native to the Andes.
Their cousins are the porcupine, hedgehog, and chinchilla. Guinea pig babies are among the cutest things on the planet and have gregarious, distinct personalities. They come in a variety of colors and hair types, from smooth to rag mop, and seldom bite, even if they are scared. They don t tend to climb out of open-topped pens and are easy to share a home with. They need maid service at least twice a week to clean and wash their homes.