Guinea Pigs: Breeds And Care
It was the naturalist Conrad von Gesner who described guinea pigs almost 5 centuries ago. Curiously, its original name was ‘cuy’, devised in the regions of origin of the animal, within Colombia, Ecuador and Peru. However, with the passage of time and its arrival in other countries, the nicknames of this rodent changed to ‘cuye / o’, ‘guinea pig’ or ‘guinea pig’.
Identified with the scientific name of Cavia porcellus , this species of mammal includes different races, which require specific attention. Next, we present the origin, care and breeds of guinea pigs. Do not miss it.
Guinea pigs: breeds and care
Did you know that the English term guinea pig refers to guinea pigs for a historical curiosity? It seems that the acquisition of a specimen of Cavia porcellus cost one guinea, so the species stayed with that name. But this is not one of the most interesting details about guinea pigs.
This herbivorous mammal comes from the Andean region, where it was domesticated by the Incas 500 years ago. At that time – and until relatively recently – this rodent was not valued as a pet, but as an important nutritional source, also participating in religious ceremonies. After the arrival of the Spanish in America, the export of guinea pigs to Europe began.
Over time, domestication and cross selection have influenced the different characteristics of guinea pigs. The most striking feature is its coat, both the type of hair and the different shades it can acquire. Such is its relevance that there are several classifications within the same species, according to the guinea pig breeding manual.
Although so much terminology may seem complicated, do not worry. Next, the most distinctive features of guinea pigs will be explained in detail.
Breeds
Regarding the number of races that make up this species, the ARBA currently recognizes 13 different ones. Did you know that one way to differentiate guinea pigs is by their hair type? There are specimens that lack it and others classified by the different lengths they acquire or by their texture. As there are many races, some of them will be mentioned as examples.
Abyssinia
Among the breeds of guinea pigs , the Abyssinian is one of the oldest and easiest to identify. Its body is covered from top to bottom by ‘rosettes’ or swirls, but despite this, it does not require great care. In addition, they are quite affectionate pets and have a lot of energy.
American
Without a doubt, American guinea pigs are the most common and the most recognized by the public. Its appearance is simple, with a short coat, which has a great variety of colors and combinations. Thanks to its type of hair, it hardly requires care. It is ideal for people with little time who want a pet.
Coronet
Lovers of hairstyles love the Coronet breed, for the thick fur that these rodents show on their heads. Remember a carding! As it has the same type of hair as the Peruvian breed – which we will see below – it is essential to brush this breed daily, to prevent the appearance of tangles and dirt.
Peruvian
Peruvian guinea pigs are arguably one of the best known breeds among lovers of this species. They are characterized by their fur, which can reach up to 50 centimeters long. For this reason, some people define this rodent as ‘a wig with legs’.
Another breed, called Silkie or Sheltie , looks quite similar to the Peruvian variety. However, its long fur begins to grow behind its face, while in the Peruvian breed it covers its entire body. Given the length of their hair, both breeds require daily brushing and trimming from time to time.
Rex or Teddy
The funny thing about this breed is that in England it is called Rex , while elsewhere it is known as Teddy . In any case, as both names already announce, this variety is larger than the rest of its relatives and its fluffy and short coat is reminiscent of bears. However, their character is nothing like the dreaded tyrannosaurus, since they are sweet and affectionate rodents.
Although not all races have been mentioned, it should be noted that there are variations with the same name, since only the type of coat differentiates them: if it is satin, this word is added to the name already mentioned.
Care
When choosing guinea pigs as pets, you should choose carefully. For example, if you buy a hairless specimen, such as the skinny or baldwin breeds , you should consider that it will not tolerate the cold. On the other hand, if you choose those with long hair, you will have to brush them frequently, trim their fur and maintain hygiene often.
As you can see, guinea pigs require a series of routine care, but they will return the attention you give them, since they are very funny and cute animals. What takes the most time is your hygiene and brushing to remove dirt and excess hair. So, don’t forget these responsibilities before adopting one of these cute rodents.
