Guinea pigs are naturally herd animals, and should have at least one companion to keep them company. Read more on the importance of guinea pig companionship here.

If you are just starting out, you must be prepared to introduce at least two guinea pigs into your homes, and we recommend adopting from a guinea pig rescue over purchasing from a petshop or breeder.

You must not attain guinea pigs with the intent on breeding and selling them. There are multiple health risks associated with guinea pig breeding, and with thousands of piggies looking for forever homes in shelters around the country, it is not necessary.

Like all pets, guinea pigs are a commitment. You must be ready to care for this animal throughout its entire life, which can be anything up to 10 years.

If your circumstances change, you must be prepared to provide ongoing care for your pets, regardless of these changes. Whether that's making adjustments to your own situation, finding a responsible carer or surrendering them to a local guinea pig rescue or shelter, your guinea pigs rely on you to provide them (or find them) ongoing, adequate care.

You should never abandon, dump or leave your guinea pigs to fend for themselves, regardless of your circumstances.

Vet bills for guinea pigs can cost hundreds of dollars, so you need to be prepared for this! You must provide these funds when your piggies fall ill, or find a vet who offers payment plans.

It is always recommended that you locate a good exotics veterinarian near you before adopting a guinea pig, as standard vets often do not have the specialised knowledge or expertise to diagnose and treat smaller animals.

We recommend you setting up a designated vet fund. This is where you put aside money weekly or monthly and is used solely for your pets' medical bills.

Find your local exotics vet here.

It's important to understand guinea pigs are NOT like dogs or cats. They require a specific diet, care and must not be housed alone. It's important to be educated on their housing requirements, health, grooming, feeding, and social attributes. Read through the rest of our Care Guide and you'll be set!

You must be prepared to provide all these requirements throughout your piggies' lifetime and maintain this level of care to the best of your ability.

You must have on hand a responsible person who can care for your guinea pigs while you are unable to. They must be educated in how to care, house and look after your critters even if it is only for a few days.

Provide them with veterinary contact numbers, lists of do's and don'ts in regards to your piggies' care, their list of food requirements, their daily routine, and dosage and administration if they are on medication.

Make sure you leave funds for food/care costs and a number in which to contact you.

Alternatively, pet boarding and pet-sitting services are also available. Some veterinary facilities may offer pet boarding for free.

Pet-sitters are a great option because come to your house once or twice a day to feed and check in on your piggies, while keeping them in a familiar environment.

Find a pet sitter here.

Despite their size, guinea pigs aren't the cheapest pets on the planet unfortunately! Vegetables can be quite costly, depending on how many piggies you own.

You must also provide quality grassy hay and pellets which are an ongoing and additional cost. Prices can vary depending on the amount, type and quality.

Housing, bedding, accessories, water bowls/bottles must be purchased upfront before you get your guinea pigs. Carry cages for vet visits are also recommended.

Many rental properties have restrictions on pet ownership. Always check with your real estate agent/owner before adopting a guinea pig. If piggies are not allowed, you can plead your case.

Some things you can offer are:

• A vets recommendations that guinea pigs will not cause any damage to the household
• Check with your local council
• Speak to the manager of the real estate agency/company
• Offer to pay for any damages that are a direct result of your guinea pig
• Present pictures of the enclosure deeming it fit for use in the household

If you are moving, provide documentation stating that your previous residence received no damages as a direct result of having guinea pigs. A signed document by a past real estate agent or rent inspector is recommended.

If you have other pets you must ensure that your guinea pigs will be safe and secure.

Know that they are prey animals and react differently compared to dogs and cats; that they also require a certain level of care.

You must be prepared to take them to a vet should it become unwell, to not neglect them and let any issues or ailments drag out unnecessarily.

You must be committed to loving, providing and caring for this animal throughout its entire life, provide the best life possible and always do what is in the best interests of your guinea pigs!