As Summer approaches and our Aussie temperatures begin to soar - it's time to start thinking about how we are going to care for our piggies during the next few hot months. Guinea pigs originate from the Andean Mountain Range in South America - a typically cool climate, and guinea pig bodies just aren't physiologically made to cope with our sweltering Aussie days. Guinea pigs are extremely susceptible to heat stroke, and if left untreated can be fatal within only a number of minutes! 

Read all about Heat Stress in Guinea Pigs here. 

What can I do at home to prevent heat stress and keep my Guinea Pigs cool and comfortable? 

Indoor Housing 

One of the first things we recommend is housing your guinea pig indoors where the temperature can be more controlled, especially if you are not going to be at home to check on them if the weather was to change. Keeping your piggies indoors, preferably with a fan or air-conditioning during the day can. 

Outdoor Housing 

If you are unable to keep your guinea pigs indoors it is important to ensure they will have shade available at all stages throughout the day. Unfortunately many guinea pigs suffer from heat stress because they are left in a shady area in the morning, but as the sun and shade moves throughout the day they may be left subjected to hot and direct sunlight in the middle of the day or afternoons. Remember to keep this in mind when positioning your guinea pigs cage for the day. 

Water

Ensure your guinea pig has constant access to fresh drinking water. It is important that your guinea pigs stay well hydrated throughout the day and you may notice they are drinking much more water and require more regular bottle refills than during the cooler months. Check your guinea pigs water every day. 

Ice-bricks, Frozen Blocks or Frozen Water Bottles

Some guinea pigs will LOVE to snuggle up next to a frozen ice-brick in their cage. When choosing an ice-brick be sure to get a solid plastic brick that is unable to be chewed through - guinea pigs love to chew and explore so may try and nibble anything new! Soft ice packs containing gel are not ideal incase your guinea pig does chew and ingest the contents. You can also use frozen water bottles to the same effect. We recommend wrapping your ice brick or water bottle in a cover or tea-towel prior to placing them in the cage. 

High Water Content Vegetables 

I know we love a nice piece of juicy watermelon on a warm Summer's day - and so do our piggies! Feeding vegetables and the occasional fruit that has high water content can help to keep your piggies cool and hydrated! Cucumber and watermelon are a few great examples!