The rockstar of guinea pigs: floor-length hair that grows from a central part and sweeps over the face like a living mop. Sweet and social, but a daily grooming commitment.
Temperament
Common health issues
- Dental issues
- Respiratory issues
- Urinary stones
- Obesity
Care at a glance
- ExerciseLow
Happy pottering around a roomy enclosure with things to explore.
- GroomingDaily grooming
A high-maintenance coat — daily attention keeps it healthy.
- Living spaceCompact setup
The enclosure is their whole world — fits easily in any home.
- Owner experienceFor experienced owners
Rewards owners who know the ropes.
- Commitment5–8 years
Plan for a long, loving relationship.
Health to watch: Dental issues · Respiratory issues · Urinary stones
📖 Care guide
The Peruvian Guinea Pig is the long-haired showstopper of the cavy world, its coat growing continuously from a central parting until it sweeps the floor and cascades forward over the face. Like all guinea pigs it descends from the Andes and weighs 700-1200 g, living 5-8 years, but its glamorous coat sets it apart. Temperament is classic cavy — gentle, social and vocal, wheeking for food and popcorning when happy — but the coat is a serious commitment. Show coats need daily brushing and often wrapping, and most pet owners keep the hair trimmed to a manageable length to prevent painful matting, soiling and eye irritation from hair sweeping the face. Guinea pigs are herd animals and must live with at least one companion in a large cage, floor everywhere with hay. They cannot make their own vitamin C, so feed daily C-rich vegetables such as bell pepper alongside unlimited grass hay and a measured pellet ration. Keep the long coat and bedding clean and dry, trim as needed, and watch for the cavy trio of dental problems, respiratory infections and urinary stones.
Frequently asked questions
How much activity does a Peruvian Guinea Pig need?
Low. Happy pottering around a roomy enclosure with things to explore.
How much grooming does a Peruvian Guinea Pig need?
Daily grooming. A high-maintenance coat — daily attention keeps it healthy.
How much space does a Peruvian Guinea Pig need?
Compact setup. The enclosure is their whole world — fits easily in any home.
Is a Peruvian Guinea Pig a good fit for first-time owners?
For experienced owners. Rewards owners who know the ropes.
How long do Peruvian Guinea Pig live?
5–8 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.
What health issues affect the Peruvian Guinea Pig?
Keep an eye out for Dental issues, Respiratory issues, Urinary stones. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.
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