While we're not sure how they got their name, guinea pigs have been bred for more than 400 years. A guinea pig's claim to fame is that it is the only domestic rodent with no tail. Behavior Guinea pigs rarely bite or scratch, but they can be messy-scattering food, water and bedding all over their cages. Their vocabulary includes about nine sounds, from whistling to purring to squealing. They are most active at dusk and dawn, but easily adjust to the routine of your household.
Guinea pigs can be fun to watch.
They like to explore new settings, but if scared, they'll either freeze or scatter in different directions. Choosing your new pet Before welcoming Piggy into your home, it's a good idea to read up on guinea pigs and their care. Your new guinea pig should be at least six weeks old before bringing him home. Guinea pigs can already breed at this age, so be sure not to keep a male and female in the same cage unless at least one is neutered. Guinea pigs come in a variety of colors and coats from which you can choose.