The normal lifespan of a guinea pig is five to eight years, but exceptionally well-cared-for and strong animals can live for ten years or longer.

Guinea pigs are a very beloved pet all around the world. They’re sociable animals who require a lot of social connection and care. They’re intelligent, kind, cuddly, funny, and very communicative. While they don’t have the same lifetime as a cat or a dog, they are generally sturdy and illness-resistant.

Breeding, food, living situation, and healthcare are all aspects that determine the Guinea pig’s lifespan. But, some circumstances are beyond anyone’s hands.

This article will tell you how to extend the life of your pet so that you can enjoy its companionship for many more years. Learn how long Guinea pigs live by taking the time to read.

What Is the Average Lifespan of Guinea Pigs?

It’s essential to remember that a guinea pig isn’t the same as a hamster. Many pet owners are unaware of the differences and believe that these creatures have similar lifespans.

They are, nonetheless, significantly distinctive! A regular hamster can live for two to three years based on how it will be treated. There are many breeds of hamsters, which can determine how long they survive.

Guinea pigs, on the contrary, live for far longer durations and grow to tremendous sizes. Guinea pigs have a one-year life expectancy. The lifespan of a domestic guinea pig varies between five and seven years, based on numerous factors.

Guinea pigs can stay for nine or 10 years if they’re well-cared for. Guinea pigs, expect you to commit to a long-term relationship.

Domesticated Guinea pigs are seldom seen in the wild (save for a small feral population), although few owners allow them to go free in a bigger fenced yard. Although this offers your Guinea pig much-needed room and breezes, free-roaming Guinea pigs are far more vulnerable to predators and infections.

They are extremely vulnerable to severe climate and freezing temperatures. This is only advised if you know what you’ve been doing and are ready to take a chance.

What Factors Affect Your Guinea Pig’s Longevity?

Genes are one of the most important variables affecting your pig’s health and overall health. Many health conditions (or at minimum an elevated chance of certain medical problems) can be handed down to offspring, much like any animal, including humankind.

This is where a breeder can make a big difference in your pet’s wellness. Only the finest stock will be selected by high-quality breeders. They will not breed pigs with major inherited genetic health issues. Their pigs are tested regularly to guarantee that they are healthy and disease-free.

Breeding, on the other hand, can only bring you this much. After you’ve got a pig, nutrition and basic care are important factors to consider. The following part will discuss how to maintain your pig safe and healthy.

Yet, no matter how prepared you are, a pig may not always survive as long as you might want. A pig’s life might be brought to an end by a concealed genetic risk that the pig bears or an unanticipated sickness. However, aside from these unanticipated circumstances, pet owners have a lot of control over their pet’s wellness.

How to Make a Guinea Pig Live Longer

Fresh nourishment

As with any living being, giving your guinea pig fresh food is one of the most effective ways to extend its life. Make very sure that any uneaten food, such as greens, is withdrawn from the cage within 24 hours so that your guinea pig doesn’t ingest expired food.

Buy a comfortable cage

Guinea pigs, like humans, prefer to be comfortable. One guinea pig should have at least 7.5 square feet of living area, and two guinea pigs should have at least 10 square feet of living area. The more room you provide your guinea pigs, the happier they will be.

Guinea Pig Bedding That Absorbs Moisture

A few appropriate options include kiln-dried pine flakes, paper bedding, or fleece. It’s also critical to replace guinea pig bedding regularly to avoid stink or ammonia build-up. You may change your guinea pig bedding at least once per week, but every three to four days is optimal.

Provide Chewing Materials

Guinea pigs need to have their teeth ground down to stay healthier. As a result, purchase chew toys or pet-safe wood blocks for your guinea pig.

Allowing Females to Get Pregnant Should Not Be Permitted

Female guinea pigs have a difficult pregnancy and delivery procedure. Difficulties during pregnancy or birth claim the lives of one out of every five females that are bred.

Find a Reliable Vet

Before your guinea pig develops a health emergency, you should be cautious and find a good veterinarian. Vaccinations are not required for guinea pigs, however, it is suggested to take them to a veterinarian at least once every year.

Exercise

Your pig will benefit from exercise both mentally and physically. A large enough cage to roam around in and everyday playtime with its master should provide plenty of activity. Exercise balls and wheels are not suggested for pigs and may even lead to injuries.

Pairs Should Not Be Mixed

Having many guinea pigs is an excellent strategy to extend the guinea pig’s lifespan. Guinea pigs, like humans, are gregarious creatures who love being part of a group.

Nonetheless, keep guinea pigs of the same sex or pairs which have already been neutered or sterilized away. As previously stated, having an unwanted guinea pig pregnancy in your home is not desirable.

How to Tell if Guinea Pigs Are in Their Last Days?

When they reach the age of four or five, guinea pigs begin to slow down.

Elderly guinea pigs may exhibit some of the same symptoms and traits as aging people. Cataracts, strokes, heart attacks, arthritis, dementia, and greying are examples of these conditions (guinea pigs may develop grey fur around the nose and mouth).

Tumors in guinea pigs have increased in frequency during the last decade. Keep an eye out for bumps and overgrowth, and have them examined by a vet.

If your guinea pig exhibits other symptoms such as excessive sleeping, not eating, or sadness, have them looked out by a veterinarian.

Bottom Line

As you’ve seen, if you want a pet that will live for five to ten years, a guinea pig is an excellent choice.

Offering your guinea pig a lovely home complete with healthy meals and wonderful friends serves a part in ensuring that it lives a long, good living.

You would do well as a guinea pig parent if you treat your guinea pig as if it were a small kid.