Here's a breakdown of the growth stages of guinea pigs, along with their approximate ages, equivalent human ages, and the proportion of food and nutrients they require at each stage
1. Neonatal Stage:
- Age: 0-2 weeks
- Human Equivalent Age: Newborn to 2 weeks old
- Nutrition: Mother's milk is vital for their growth during this stage. No additional food is needed.
2. Weaning Stage:
- Age: 2-4 weeks
- Human Equivalent Age: 2 weeks to 1 month old
- Nutrition: Begin introducing alfalfa hay, water, and small amounts of pelleted food. Mother's milk is still important.
3. Juvenile Stage:
- Age: 1-3 months
- Human Equivalent Age: 1-3 years old
- Nutrition: Transition from alfalfa hay to timothy hay. Pellets can be increased, but vegetables and fresh water become essential.
4. Sub-Adult Stage:
- Age: 3-6 months
- Human Equivalent Age: 3-6 years old
- Nutrition: Focus on balanced nutrition. Increase the variety of vegetables and continue with hay and pellets.
5. Young Adult Stage:
- Age: 6-12 months
- Human Equivalent Age: 6-18 years old
- Nutrition: Transition to adult guinea pig pellets. Continue providing a variety of fresh vegetables and hay.
6. Adult Stage:
- Age: 1-4 years
- Human Equivalent Age: 18-80 years old
- Nutrition: Maintain a diet of fresh hay, a controlled amount of pellets, and a diverse array of vegetables.
7. Senior Stage:
- Age: 4+ years
- Human Equivalent Age: 80+ years old
- Nutrition: Adjust diet to accommodate potential dental issues or decreased appetite. Continue focusing on hay and veggies.