How Long Do Guinea Pig Babies Stay with Mom?
Guinea pigs are among the most popular exotic pets to have. Seeing them prance and play in outdoor habitats is always a delightful sight.
When getting a pet guinea pig, it’s important to understand their reproductive cycle. In particular, one common question is “how long do guinea pig babies stay with mom?” After all, it is important to be informed of all the changes and responsibilities that come with having a pregnant guinea pig.
Gestation Period
Generally, guinea pigs have a gestation period of 59 to 72 days. The average is around 68 days and it is highly recommended that you take your guinea pig to a vet to confirm her pregnancy after this amount of time.
How Many Babies Are There?
The average litter size for guinea pigs is from 1 to 7 pups. Some may have more, but usually no more than 8 babies.
When Do the Baby Guinea Pigs Leave their Mother?
At the age of three weeks, the babies are weaned and ready to be separated from their mother. A week or two extra to ensure proper weaning should be taken into consideration, as some guinea pigs may reject their babies if separated too early.
Preparing for the Babies
Here are some tips to ensure a successful weaning process:
- Cleanliness: Cleanliness is one of the most important things when raising guinea pigs. Make sure their cage is clean and free of any dirt.
- Provide Sufficient Food: Make sure that the mother and her offspring have a balanced and nutritious diet. Fresh vegetables and hay should be provided regularly.
- Provide Sufficient Space: The guinea pigs need enough space to move around and play. Ensure that there is a large enough cage for the mother and her babies.
- Understand Their Psychology: Guinea pigs are social animals and require attention and care. Make sure to spend some quality time with them every day.
Having a pet guinea pig is a rewarding experience. With proper care and attention, their offspring can be a delight as well. Just remember to have patience during the weaning phase and the guinea pig babies will be off on their own soon enough!