Silkie (Sheltie) Guinea Pig

• ExerciseLow

  Happy pottering around a roomy enclosure with things to explore.

• GroomingBrush a few times a week

  Regular brushing and nail checks keep them comfortable.

• 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

The Silkie Guinea Pig, called the Sheltie in Britain, is a long-haired cavy breed whose coat, unlike the Peruvian's, grows back from the face rather than forward, giving a smooth teardrop silhouette with no hair falling over the eyes. It weighs 700-1200 g and lives 5-8 years, and is often considered one of the calmest breeds. Silkies have a reputation for being especially gentle, shy and easygoing, settling happily onto a lap once they trust their people. The swept-back coat is a little more forgiving than a Peruvian's, but it still needs regular brushing several times a week and often trimming at the rear to keep it clean and mat-free. As herd animals they must have at least one guinea pig companion and a large floor-level cage full of hay. Feed daily vitamin-C-rich vegetables, unlimited grass hay and a small measured pellet portion, since they cannot synthesise vitamin C. Keep the coat and bedding dry, brush and trim on a routine, and monitor the usual guinea pig health concerns — overgrown teeth, respiratory infection and urinary grit or stones — for a long, contented life.

• How much activity does a Silkie (Sheltie) Guinea Pig need?

  Low. Happy pottering around a roomy enclosure with things to explore.

• How much grooming does a Silkie (Sheltie) Guinea Pig need?

  Brush a few times a week. Regular brushing and nail checks keep them comfortable.

• How much space does a Silkie (Sheltie) Guinea Pig need?

  Compact setup. The enclosure is their whole world — fits easily in any home.

• Is a Silkie (Sheltie) Guinea Pig a good fit for first-time owners?

  For experienced owners. Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• How long do Silkie (Sheltie) Guinea Pig live?

  5–8 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Silkie (Sheltie) 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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