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1. Salad Bowl (The Cavy Life's all time favourite) Ingredients: Leafy greens (romaine lettuce, green lettuce) Bell peppers (capsicum) Cucumber Carrot Instructions: Wash and chop veggies into small pieces. Mix them in a bowl. Proportion: 1/4 cup of mixed veggies Nutrient Benefits: Vitamins, minerals, and fibre for overall health. Storing: Serve immediately. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 24 hours. Frequency: Once a day. Safety: Avoid giving ice-cold veggies; allow them to reach room temperature. 2. Carrot & Bell Pepper Sticks: Ingredients: Carrots Bell Peppers Instructions: Cut carrots and bell peppers into sticks. Proportion: 1 carrot, 1/4 bell pepper Nutrient Benefits: Vitamins and crunchiness for dental health. Storing: Serve fresh. Frequency: A few times a week. Safety: Wash produce thoroughly and offer in moderation. 3. Hay Cupcakes Ingredients: Timothy Hay Carrot or Apple Slice (for topping) Instructions: 1. Pack a small amount of hay into a cupcake liner. 2. Top with a slice of carrot or apple. Proportion: As needed. Nutrient Benefits: Encourages hay consumption and dental health. Storing: Make fresh for each serving. Feeding Frequency: 1-2 times a week. Safety: Ensure the cupcake liner is safe for consumption. 4. Veggie Wraps Ingredients: Lettuce Carrots Cucumber Instructions: Cut carrots and bell peppers into strips. Lay carrot and cucumber strips on a lettuce leaf and roll. Proportion: 1 large lettuce leaf, thin carrot and cucumber strips Nutrient Benefits: Hydration from cucumber, vitamins from carrots and lettuce. Storing: Prepare fresh; serve immediately. Frequency: A few times a week. Safety: Avoid high-calcium vegetables like spinach. 5. Fruity Delight Ingredients: Apple Pear Strawberry Instructions: Wash, peel, and chop fruits into small pieces. Proportion: 1 tablespoon of mixed fruits Nutrient Benefits: Vitamin C, natural sugars, antioxidants. Storing: Serve fresh. Discard leftovers after a few hours. Frequency: 2-3 times a week. Safety: Remove seeds and pits; fruits are treats, not main meals. 6. Herb Mix Munch Ingredients: Coriander Dill Instructions: Wash and chop herbs finely. Proportion: 1-2 tablespoons of mixed herbs Nutrient Benefits: Vitamins, minerals, aids digestion. Storing: Serve fresh. Store extra herbs wrapped in a damp paper towel in the fridge for a day or two. Frequency: 2-3 times a week. Safety: Herbs are healthy, but avoid overfeeding.

Guinea pigs, with their playful and inquisitive nature, thrive on interactive activities that stimulate their minds and senses. Enter the "snuffle mat" – a versatile and delightful accessory that can enrich your guinea pig's life in various ways. In this article, we'll explore snuffle mats, why they matter for guinea pigs, how to use them, and even how to create your own. What is a Snuffle Mat? A snuffle mat is like a mini adventure park for your guinea pig. It's typically a flat, flexible mat made of fabric strips, often fleece, that are tied onto a base. Hidden within these strips are treats or veggies. Think of it as a puzzle playground designed to engage your guinea pig's senses and intelligence. The Importance of Snuffle Mats for Guinea Pigs: 1. Mental Stimulation: Guinea pigs are clever critters. Snuffle mats challenge them to use their problem-solving skills to locate hidden goodies, providing mental exercise and enrichment. 2. Foraging Fun: In the wild, guinea pigs forage for food. Snuffle mats tap into this instinct, offering a natural and enjoyable way for them to search for sustenance. 3. Slow Feeding: Snuffle mats encourage slow and mindful eating. They make mealtime more exciting while promoting healthy digestion and preventing overeating. Design and Material: - Texture: Snuffle mats have a tactile surface created by the fabric strips, offering your guinea pig both a mental and sensory workout. - Base: The base is usually a sturdy, non-toxic material that supports the fabric strips. Manufacturing: Many snuffle mats are lovingly handcrafted by pet enthusiasts to ensure quality and safety. However, you can also find commercially produced ones. Cleaning and Maintenance: - Shake it Off: Regularly shake out any loose debris or crumbs. - Wash and Dry: Follow the manufacturer's instructions for washing and ensure the mat is completely dry before use. How to Use a Snuffle Mat: 1. Feeding: Sprinkle a portion of your guinea pig's daily pellets or dried herbs into the mat. This makes mealtime more engaging and slows down their eating pace. 2. Playtime: Hide favorite treats or small toys in the fabric strips. Let your guinea pig explore and discover these hidden treasures. 3. Mental Exercise: Use the snuffle mat to challenge your guinea pig's brain. Hide small veggies or herbs to encourage problem-solving. Pricing: The cost of snuffle mats varies depending on size, design, and where you purchase them. The price ranges from INR 800-2000 Commercial options can range from affordable to more premium. DIY Snuffle Mat Ideas: Feeling crafty? You can create your own snuffle mat! Here's a simple DIY guide: - Materials: A base mat (plastic or rubber), strips of fleece fabric, scissors. - Cut the fabric into strips and tie them onto the base mat. - Hide treats or pellets within the strips. - Voilà! You've crafted a personalized snuffle mat for your guinea pig. Here is a tutorial to help you out. This one is another great tutorial on making a snuffle mat from old clothes. In conclusion, snuffle mats are a fantastic addition to your guinea pig's life. They offer mental stimulation, encourage natural foraging instincts, and make mealtimes more exciting. Whether you purchase one or embark on a DIY adventure, a snuffle mat is a surefire way to add enrichment and joy to your guinea pig's daily routine.

Welcoming a guinea pig into your home brings bundles of joy, but it's important to plan your guinea pig budget wisely for their care. Let's break down the costs in Indian rupees and offer budget-friendly tips to keep your furry friend happy without breaking the bank. 1. One time cost for initial set-up: - Cage or Enclosure: Starting from ₹1,000 to ₹3,000 depending on size and type. - Hideouts and Accessories: ₹200 to ₹1000 for cozy hideouts and toys. - Bedding (If opting for reusable Pee Pads) : Around ₹1000 to ₹2000 depending on size. 2. Monthly essentials: - Hay: ₹200 to ₹1500 per month for fresh hay. - Pellets: ₹100 to ₹150 per month for good quality pellets. - Fresh Vegetables: ₹300 to ₹500 per month (varies based on availability and choices). - Bedding (disposable pee pads): Around ₹300-1000 per month depending on size and type. 3. Healthcare: - Vet Visits: ₹500 to ₹1,000 for annual check-ups and medicines. 4. Emergency Fund: - Set aside ₹1,000 to ₹2,000 for unexpected vet visits or medical needs. 5. Total Monthly Estimate: - For one guinea pig, the monthly cost could range from ₹1,000 to ₹3000. The Cavy Life Budget-Friendly Tips: Buy in Bulk: Hay, pellets, and bedding (disposable) can be purchased in larger quantities to save money. Homemade Toys: Craft simple toys from cardboard or safe household items to avoid unnecessary expenses. DIY Cage Accessories: Create hideouts and play areas using recyclable materials. Remember, guinea pigs are priceless companions, but their care comes with a price tag. By planning your budget smartly and making cost-effective choices, you can provide a comfortable and happy life for your furry friend without straining your wallet. Happy budgeting, and enjoy the heartwarming journey with your pint-sized pal!

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.

Congratulations on considering guinea pig parenthood! Before those adorable furballs hop into your life, let's chat about getting your mind ready for this joyful journey. Here's a friendly rundown of expectations versus realities to ensure you're prepped for the pigtastic adventure ahead. Expectation: Adorable Instagram Moments All Day Reality: They're indeed Instagram-worthy, but they have their own schedule. They'll snuggle, but they'll also explore, nap, and do some unexpected zoomies. Expectation: Silent Companionship Reality: Guinea pigs are social chatterboxes! They'll squeak for food, attention, or just to say "hi." Embrace their adorable conversations. Expectation: One Veggie at a Time, Please Reality: Picky eaters? Oh yes. They'll taste-test everything before deciding what's worthy of their royal taste buds. Expectation: Simple Cage Cleanup Reality: Cage hygiene is a thing! Be ready for regular cleaning, including hay flying everywhere. But it's a small price for their happiness. Expectation: Expert-Level Snuggling Reality: While some love snuggles, others prefer being their own boss. Respect their individual quirks and let them set the snuggle rules. Expectation: Guinea Pig Gyms and Playgrounds Reality: They love exploring, but don't expect agility courses. Just a comfy, safe environment to roam and zoom. Expectation: Instant BFFs Reality: Bonding takes time. They might need days or weeks to warm up. Be patient, and soon you'll earn their trust. Expectation: Low-Maintenance Pets Reality: They're not high-maintenance, but they're not no-maintenance either. They need daily interaction, clean quarters, and love. Expectation: Instant Guinea Pig Expertise Reality: Learning their language takes time. It's okay to Google, ask fellow piggy parents, and learn together. Expectation: Non-Stop Cuddles Reality: They're not all cuddlers. Respect their personalities and let them choose their comfort zones. Embrace the laughs, squeaks, and cuddles – every guinea pig comes with a unique personality. Remember, patience, love, and a dash of humor go a long way. So, gear up for a life filled with adorable piggie antics, and get ready to be the best guinea pig parent ever!

Ever wonder what happens in the world of guinea pigs when the lights go out? Just like us, these adorable critters have their own unique sleeping patterns and habits. Let's uncover the fascinating realm of guinea pig slumber! Ever wonder what happens in the world of guinea pigs when the lights go out? Just like us, these adorable critters have their own unique sleeping patterns and habits. Let's uncover the fascinating realm of guinea pig slumber! The Sleepy Schedule: Guinea pigs are crepuscular creatures, which means they are most active during the twilight hours of dawn and dusk. They might snooze for short periods throughout the day, but their main bursts of activity come during these magical hours. Nap Time Matters: Guinea pigs love their beauty rest! They take short naps throughout the day, often lasting 10 to 20 minutes each. But when the sun sets, their energy levels rise, and they engage in more extended periods of playful exploration. Yawning Secrets: Just like us when we yawn, guinea pigs might be telling us something. Frequent yawning can indicate boredom, discomfort, or even stress. Offering them a stimulating environment with toys and companions can help combat excessive yawning. Bedroom Must-Haves: A cozy, safe, and quiet sleeping environment is essential for your guinea pig's beauty sleep. Provide a comfy hideout or shelter where they can retreat for a peaceful nap. Keep their space free from loud noises and disturbances. Ensuring Sweet Dreams: To ensure your guinea pig enjoys restful slumber: Maintain a consistent light schedule to mimic their natural crepuscular rhythm. Place their cage in a draft-free, dimly lit area. Offer fresh hay and water before they settle in for the night. Spend quality awake-time with them during their active periods to keep them mentally stimulated. Just like us, guinea pigs cherish their sleep. By understanding their sleep patterns and creating a cozy haven for them to catch their Zzz's, you'll be helping your furry friends thrive and enjoy their waking moments even more. So, let's keep those yawns to a minimum and let the peaceful dreams roll in!

When it comes to your guinea pig's health and happiness, there's one superstar that plays a starring role in their diet: hay! But not all hay is created equal, especially when you're navigating the hay market in India. In this article, we'll uncover the importance of hay in a guinea pig's life and guide you through the types of hay available in India to ensure you're making the right choice for your furry friend. The Hay Hype: Why It Matters Imagine if you had to eat the same meal every day. Sounds dull, right? Well, guinea pigs might feel the same way about their food. Hay is like their personal fiber factory, keeping their digestive system in tip-top shape. When they nibble on hay, those long strands get things moving and grooving in their guts. But that's not all – hay is like a natural toothbrush for your guinea pigs. Chewing on hay helps wear down their constantly growing teeth, saving them from dental dilemmas. So, when you see your furry pals munching away, they're actually keeping their pearly whites in check. The Hay Hunt: Choosing the Perfect Hay Different types of hay have different benefits. Timothy hay is like the gold standard, but there's also alfalfa, orchard grass, meadow hay, bermuda grass, and even blends! The right hay depends on your guinea pig's age, health, and preferences. Just like we have different food groups, guinea pigs have their own hay categories. Let's break it down: a. Timothy Hay: This is the kingpin of hay. It's like the salad of the hay world – packed with fiber and low in calories. Perfect for maintaining a healthy weight and keeping digestion on track. Adults guinea pigs absolutely adore it. Nutritional Value: High in fiber, essential for digestion. Contains appropriate calcium levels. Portion: Offer unlimited access. It should be the main component of their diet. Correct Age: Suitable for guinea pigs of all ages. Availability in India: Widely available in pet stores and online shops. It's one of the most common hays for guinea pigs Picture Credit : INR Farms b. Alfalfa Hay: This one is like a hay milkshake. It's loaded with extra nutrients, which is perfect for baby guinea pigs or mamas-to-be. But here's the deal – it's a bit too rich for the older piggies, so save it for the little ones. Nutritional Value: High in calcium and protein. Best for young, growing guinea pigs or pregnant/nursing sows. Portion: Offer occasionally to young guinea pigs (up to 6-8 months) and pregnant/nursing sows. Correct Age: Not recommended for adult guinea pigs due to high calcium content. Availability in India: Can be found in some pet stores and online platforms. It's more commonly available for small animals like rabbits. Picture Credit : Small Pet Select c. Meadow Hay: Think of this as a hay mixtape. It's a blend of different grasses and herbs, giving your guinea pigs a tasty variety. Just like us, they enjoy a little flavor adventure every now and then. Nutritional Value: Diverse mix of grasses and plants, providing variety. Portion: Can be offered as an alternative to Timothy hay. Correct Age: Suitable for guinea pigs of all ages. Availability in India: Can be found in select pet stores and online platforms that specialize in small animal products. Picture Credit : Nature's Own Pets d. Orchard Grass Hay: This type of hay is quite similar to Timothy hay, but it's a bit softer. Guinea pigs really enjoy nibbling on it, and it's good for their tummies too. You can offer it to your guinea pig as an alternative to their regular hay. Nutritional Value: Similar to Timothy hay but slightly softer. Good source of fiber. Portion: Can be offered as an alternative to Timothy hay. Correct Age: Suitable for guinea pigs of all ages. Availability in India: Somewhat available in larger pet stores and online retailers. Availability might vary. Picture Credit : Grandpa’s Best e. Bermuda Grass Hay: Picture a grass that's not too hard and not too soft, just in between. That's Bermuda Grass! It's another type of hay that guinea pigs can eat. It has a nice amount of fiber, which is good for their digestion. While it might not be their main hay, you can give it to them as part of a mix to keep their diet interesting. Nutritional Value: Moderate fiber content. Portion: Can be offered as a part of a varied hay diet. Correct Age: Suitable for guinea pigs of all ages. Availability in India: Less common, but you might find it in certain specialised pet shops or through online sellers. Picture Credit : Rietkerk Hay The "How-To" of Hay: Sharing the Love Alright, now that we know hay is essential, how much should you offer? Guinea pigs typically need about 70-90 grams of hay every day. This amount helps keep them healthy and happy. You can split this into two meals, giving them some in the morning and more in the evening. If you notice they finish it quickly or it gets too messy, you can adjust the amount accordingly. Just make sure they always have some hay available to munch on. Here's how you can give it to them: Fill the Hay Rack: Get a hay rack or holder from a pet store. Fill it up with a bunch of hay. Think of it like filling a snack bowl for them. Hang it Up: Hang the hay rack inside their cage. You can attach it to the side bars. It's like a buffet right in their home! Let Them Munch: Your guinea pig will see the hay and start munching on it. They love the taste and it's really good for their tummy. Keep It Fresh: Check the hay every day and refill it when it's empty. Guinea pigs like fresh hay just like we like fresh food. But remember, hay isn't the only star on the guinea pig stage. Fresh veggies and a specially formulated pellet mix round out their diet. It's like their gourmet feast, and hay is the VIP guest. Final Thoughts So there you have it, hay heroes! Now you understand why that humble pile of grass is so important. It's not just food – it's a secret to your guinea pig's well-being. From digestion to dental care, hay does it all. Remember, each type of hay has its own charm. So, whether you're doling out the tried-and-true Timothy hay or mixing it up with meadow hay, your guinea pigs will thank you with joyful squeaks and happy hops. In the end, hay isn't just hay – it's a hay-mazing way to show your furry pals just how much you care. Keep that hay dispenser full and those little tummies happy. Your guinea pigs will reward you with boundless affection, and maybe even a popcorn dance or two!

Guinea pigs, those little bundles of joy, often find themselves wrapped in myths that need a reality check. Let's dive into the truth behind some of the most common misconceptions, and clear the air for our furry friends! Myth 1: "Guinea Pigs are a Type of Rodent" Fact: This one is partially true, but it's worth clarifying. Guinea pigs are indeed rodents, but they belong to the family Caviidae, which distinguishes them from other types of rodents. They are unique in their own right and have specific care requirements that set them apart from other rodent species. Myth 2: "Guinea Pigs Are Smelly Animals" Fact: While all animals have their natural odor, guinea pigs are generally clean animals that don't produce strong odors if their living environment is kept clean. Regular cage cleaning, proper bedding, and hygiene maintenance can keep any potential smells at bay. Myth 3: "Guinea Pigs Need Regular Baths" Fact: Surprise, surprise! Guinea pigs are pretty skilled at keeping themselves clean. Frequent baths can strip their skin of natural oils, leading to dryness. A gentle wipe with a damp cloth is all they need. Myth 4: "Guinea Pigs Are Silent Creatures" Fact: Hold your ears! Guinea pigs have their own language of squeaks, purrs, and wheeks. They're quite the chatterboxes, expressing their happiness, excitement, and sometimes even protest. Myth 5: "Guinea Pigs Don't Need Vaccinations" Fact: Just like us, guinea pigs need protection too. While they might not need all the shots that dogs or cats do, they still need a check-up with the vet and the right vaccines to keep them healthy. Myth 6: "Guinea Pigs Can Eat Anything" Fact: Not a chance! Guinea pigs might nibble their way through hay, veggies, and fruits, but they're picky eaters. No junk food, chocolate, or onions for these little ones! Myth 7: "Guinea Pigs Can Live Solo" Fact: Guinea pigs are social butterflies. They thrive when they have a companion to chat and cuddle with. Solo guinea pigs can feel lonely and sad – it's always better in pairs or small groups. Myth 8: Guinea Pigs Can Be Housed in Small Cages Fact: Bigger is better! Guinea pigs need space to move, play, and socialize. A roomy cage or enclosure is essential for their well-being. Myth 9: "Guinea Pigs Are Low-Interaction Pets" Fact: Guinea pigs thrive on human interaction and form strong bonds with their caregivers. They enjoy being gently petted, cuddled, and talked to. Interacting with your guinea pigs not only strengthens your relationship but also contributes to their emotional well-being So, there you have it – a little myth-busting for the guinea pig world. Let's make sure we give our furry buddies the care and love they truly deserve, based on the real facts.

Understanding the impact of Indian vegetables and fruits on our guinea pigs is pivotal for their vibrant well-being. From the crisp sweetness of capsicums to the refreshing allure of cucumbers, our awareness of safe and nutritious choices shapes their health journey. By exploring the nutritional riches that local produce offers, we pave the way for stronger immune systems, optimal digestion, and boundless vitality in our beloved guinea pigs. In the realm of guinea pig care, knowledge of Indian flora becomes a powerful tool, nurturing a lifetime of joy and companionship. Remember, guinea pigs' digestive systems are delicate, and sudden dietary changes can lead to discomfort. Introduce new foods gradually, monitor their reactions, and consult a veterinarian when in doubt. Vegetables Vegetables are like superheroes in a guinea pig's world. Packed with vitamins and fiber, they keep our furry pals healthy and full of energy. Veggies like bell peppers and leafy greens are like mini nutrient bombs, boosting their immune system and helping them grow strong. But here's the catch – too much of a good thing can sometimes be not-so-good. Veggies, when eaten too much, might upset their tiny tummies or cause weight issues. So, it's all about balance. Offer mix of veggies, but remember, hay should still be the star of their plate. Think of veggies as tasty sidekicks that add excitement to their meals. 1. Capsicum (daily): शिमला मिर्च Portion: A slice per guinea pig. Nutrition: Rich in Vitamin C, an essential nutrient that guinea pigs require daily since they cannot synthesise it on their own. 2. Cucumber: खीरा Portion: A thin slice per guinea pig. Nutrition: Hydrating and low in calories, cucumbers provide a refreshing snack. 3. Coriander (Cilantro): धनिए के पत्ते Portion: A small bunch for multiple guinea pigs. Nutrition: A fantastic source of Vitamin C and antioxidants that contribute to overall well-being. 4. Tomatoes (Small Amount): टमाटर Portion: Small slice or a few small pieces. Nutrition: Contains Vitamin C and antioxidants. Note that tomatoes have high acidity, so feed in moderation. 5. Cherry Tomatoes (Small Amount): चैरी टमाटर Portion: 1 or 2 cherry tomatoes. Nutrition: Similar to regular tomatoes but smaller in size. 6. Dill: सवा Portion: A few sprigs. Nutrition: Contains Vitamin C and antioxidants. 7. Lemongrass (Small Amount): नींबू घास Portion: A small piece. Nutrition: Can have mild digestive benefits. Feed in moderation. 8. Beans (Green Beans, Snap Peas): हरी फली Portion: 1 or 2 beans. Nutrition: Source of fiber and Vitamin C. 9. Cabbage (Limited): पत्ता गोभी Portion: A small piece. Nutrition: Contains Vitamin C and fiber. Feed in moderation due to gas-inducing properties. 10. Spinach: पालक Portion: A few leaves (in moderation due to oxalates). Nutrition: Offers Vitamin K, fiber, and a variety of minerals. Feed in moderation to avoid excessive calcium binding. 11. Carrots: गाजर Portion: A small piece or slice per guinea pig. Nutrition: High in Vitamin A, important for guinea pig vision and immune health. 12. Zucchini: तुरई Portion: A slice per guinea pig. Nutrition: Low in calories and rich in water content, promoting hydration. 13. Lettuce (Romaine, Green or Butterhead/Bibb): सलाद पत्ते Portion: A few leaves. Nutrition: Provides fiber and water, contributing to digestion and hydration. Avoid iceberg lettuce due to its low nutritional value. 14. Broccoli: ब्रोकोली Portion: Small floret. Nutrition: Rich in Vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants. Fruits Fruits are like nature's candies for our guinea pig buddies. They bring fun flavors and vitamins to the table, making mealtime a joy. Fruits such as strawberries and melons can give our furry pals a healthy boost, just like they do for us. But here's the twist – too many treats can sometimes lead to tummy troubles. Fruits have natural sugars that can be a bit much if eaten in big bites. So, let's keep it in check. Offering a small slice of fruit as a special treat now and then keeps things exciting and safe. Remember, balance is the key. While fruits are a fruity-fresh delight, we want to make sure our guinea pig friends stay healthy and happy. So, let them enjoy a little taste of nature's sweetness while keeping their diet mostly veggie-packed and hay-filled! 1. Apple: सेब Portion: A small slice or wedge (without seeds or core). Nutrition: Offers fiber, Vitamin C, and antioxidants. Remove seeds to prevent choking. 2. Pears: नाशपाती Portion: A small slice or wedge (without seeds or core). Nutrition: A sweet source of fiber, helping with digestion. 3. Guava: अमरूद Portion: A small slice (without seeds). Nutrition: Packed with Vitamin C, which supports immune health. 4. Watermelon: तरबूज Portion: A small piece (without seeds or rind). Nutrition: Hydrating and low in calories, suitable for a refreshing treat. 5. Papaya: पपीता Portion: A small slice (without seeds). Nutrition: Contains enzymes that aid digestion and Vitamin C for immune support. 6. Orange: संतरा Portion: A small piece (in moderation due to acidity). Nutrition: Provides a burst of Vitamin C. Feed sparingly to avoid excess citrus intake. 7. Kiwi: कीवी Portion: A small slice or wedge. Nutrition: Packed with Vitamin C and fiber. 8. Muskmelon (Cantaloupe): खरबूजा Portion: Small piece without seeds. Nutrition: Rich in Vitamin C and hydration. 9. Strawberry: स्ट्रॉबेरी Portion: Half a strawberry. Nutrition: Contains Vitamin C and antioxidants. 10. Grapes (Limited Amount): अंगूर Portion: A few small grapes. Nutrition: Contains natural sugars. Feed in moderation due to sugar content. 11.Blueberry: ब्लूबेरी/नीलबदरी Portion: A couple of berries. Nutrition: High in antioxidants and fiber. Did you know : Your Guinea Pig has its own preference too ! Guess what? Just like us, guinea pigs have their own vegetable & fruit preferences! Each guinea pig has a unique taste. Some might go bananas for bell peppers, while others give the cold shoulder to cucumbers. It's like having a best friend who adores Cheese Maggi while you prefer Pani Puri – everyone's got their thing! Just like how some humans crave sweets and others love savory, guinea pigs have taste buds that tick differently. It's all about finding the flavor that makes their hearts (and tiny tummies) happy. And just like we try new foods, guinea pigs might surprise you with their quirky choices. So, go ahead and explore the guinea pig gourmet world – who knows, you might discover their very own gourmet delight!

Water Hidey Food - Hay, pellets & green vegetables Cage 1. Water Let's start with the most important thing for survival - The Water Required Volume - 100 ml ~ 1/2 of your Coffee mug per guinea pig per day to begin. Depending on the weather condition and health your piggy may require more water. Container - Can be bowl or sipper. Depending on what your guinea pig prefers. 2. Hidey Guinea Pigs are prey animals and are closer to bottom in a food chain. This means they are prone to be hunted by other animals for food. Having an enclosure from top and sides makes them feel safe and warm. This is important for their peace of mind and health otherwise your Guinea Pig will always stay stressed. Enters the concept of Hidey, an area or space used as a hiding place. They are usually in the form of small boxes, enclosures, doll house like structures and tunnels. Where to find Hideys? - You can buy online, from pet store or can make your own. 3. Food = Hay + Green Vegetables + Pellets Guinea Pigs are herbivorous animals and their diet is divided into 3 categories - Hay, Green Vegetables & Pellets. All are equally important for guinea pig's health and should be given daily. Hay - By definition, Hay is a collection of grass and other plants that have been cut, dried, and collected. It is used as food for grazing animals like cattle or domesticated animals like rabbits or guinea pigs. For guinea pigs and rabbits, hay serves more than just food. It helps in their digestion and in limiting the growth of their teeth. Green Vegetables - Vitamin C is a very important component of food for Guinea pigs. Some of the vegetables & fruits good in Vitamin C are - Capsicum, red bell peppers, carrots, apples, oranges, cucumbers, corianders, tomatoes, dill, grapes and parsley. Fruits should be given once or twice a week as they contain sugars which if given in excess can damage their digestive system. Pellets - Pellets are cereal like thing that contains a balance of all the essential nutrients, including vitamins, minerals for your guinea pig's health. How much to serve ? - Check our full list of Indian Vegetables & Fruits here. 4. Cage Cage is important to provide a dedicated and secure space for your guinea pigs to live safely. It should be big enough that it can accommodate hidey, food bowls, water sippers, hay rack and some space for them to roam around. Prefer open roof cage and no wire mesh in the bottom of the cage. Guinea Pigs have little feet that can get caught in the mesh. Bedding - Bedding is usually a soft fabric placed in the bottom of the cage where your Guinea Pig will sleep, pee and poop. You can use shredded papers, pee pads, baby bed protector, fleece liners, waterproof baby sheets etc. Important factors to consider while building a cage - Both cage and bedding should be easy to clean and maintain. So, choose wisely depending on your lifestyle. Cage should be placed away from direct sunlight and breeze. Cage should be well ventilated for Guinea Pigs to get fresh air. The bedding material should be safe for Guinea Pigs. Recommended - If you are getting Guinea Pig for the first time kindly get a pair. It could be male-male, female-female or male-female. Guinea Pigs are social animals and in wild they are usually in groups. Having a pair of Guinea Pigs will provide each Guinea Pig a companionship when you are not around. This will keep them less stressed and healthy. Also, it is found that a pair of Guinea Pigs will bond quickly with you than a single Guinea Pig.