guinea pig grooming

Guinea Pig Grooming

A guinea pig can be one of the cutest and loving pets that anyone can have. These delicate little creatures will depend on its owner(s) to provide them with all the TLC that they will need. Providing food, water, and medical care are some of the basic needs that you are required to give your guinea. Guinea pig grooming is a must as well. If you have a short haired pig, grooming needs can be kept at a minimum. If you have a long haired pig, you will need to devote more time to grooming. The remainder of this article will go over all of the basics of pig grooming.

To keep your guinea pig’s coat in good condition, you must brush it regularly. This part of guinea grooming can be very relaxing for your pet, so they do not mind it at all. You should brush your pet with a small and moderately stiff brush and also a small metal comb. If you have a long haired piggy, you should brush and comb out its hair every day. If the coat is too long, see a groomer about having it trimmed. If you have a short haired piggy, you should only have to brush it every few days. If your guinea is shedding, try to brush its hair at least every other day. Brushing time is also a good time to check your guinea for skin problems such as lice or sores.

Bathing, at sometimes, cannot be such a good time for guineas . With your guinea grooming, if you do decide to give your piggy a bath, try to find a shampoo that is designed specifically for guinea pigs. Some brands of shampoos that are good to use are Bunny Bath by Four Paws, Hylyt Hypoallergenic Shampoo, and Epi-Soothe Shampoo. If you cannot find any of these, then it would be best to use a mild shampoo that is recommended for kittens. Some pig owners even opt to use baby shampoo. If your guinea gets lice, then your veterinarian will recommend a medicated shampoo to use. When bathing your pet, use a shallow pan of lukewarm water and make sure that only the pig’s body is lathered. Also make sure that you do not get any shampoo or water in its eyes or ears. You would want to rinse the pet well and to towel dry it. Keep your guinea pig in a warm place until it is completely dry.

Guinea pig grooming also consists of regular nail clipping. Try to clip your guineas nails at least once a month to keep the nails in good shape. Also remember that, the longer the nails get, the harder it will be to trim them. It is also recommended that you examine your pets ears each week. To clean its ears, you can place a drop of mineral oil in each ear, let sit for about 5 minutes, and then clean the outer ear carefully with a soft cloth wrapped around your finger.

Guinea pig grooming is not a hard process to keep up with. After all, you want to make sure that your pet stays clean and healthy. Keep in mind that at some local pet stores, guinea pig grooming is a service that is offered. You can also find an array of supplies there for your guinea pig grooming needs. Always remember that if you have any questions in regards to your guinea pig’s health and or grooming, call or see your local veterinarian.

By: Lee Martin

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