A newborn guinea pig is called a pup. Unlike many small animals, guinea pig pups are born fully developed with fur, open eyes, and the ability to walk. This makes them quite unique among rodents, as most rodent babies are born blind and hairless. Guinea pig pups are miniature versions of adults and start exploring their surroundings within hours of birth.
What Do Guinea Pig Pups Look Like at Birth?
Newborn guinea pig pups are incredibly small, usually weighing between 60 to 120 grams. They have soft fur, open eyes, and tiny teeth already in place. Within minutes, they begin moving around and interacting with their mother and siblings. Because they are precocial (born in an advanced state), they can eat solid food alongside nursing.
How Long Do Guinea Pigs Stay With Their Mother?
Guinea pig pups should stay with their mother for about three weeks. During this time, they nurse and learn essential behaviors. After that, they can safely be weaned and gradually transition to eating hay, pellets, and fresh vegetables. Male pups should be separated from their mother and sisters around 21 days old to prevent early breeding.
Caring for Newborn Guinea Pigs
- Provide a Safe Environment: Keep the cage clean, dry, and warm. Avoid loud noises or sudden handling in the first few days.
- Support the Mother: Offer high-quality food rich in vitamin C and fresh water to help her recover and feed the pups.
- Monitor Growth: Weigh the pups daily for the first week to ensure they are gaining weight.
- Limit Handling Initially: Handle them gently after a few days so they become socialized but not stressed.
How Soon Can Guinea Pig Pups Eat Solid Food?
Guinea pig pups begin nibbling on hay and pellets within a few hours after birth. However, they still rely on their mother’s milk for nutrition during the first two to three weeks. It’s important to provide timothy hay, fresh greens, and pellets formulated for guinea pigs to support healthy development.
Interesting Facts About Baby Guinea Pigs
- Guinea pigs have a short gestation period of about 59 to 72 days.
- Litters usually contain 1 to 4 pups, though larger litters can occur.
- Pups communicate using tiny squeaks and chirps to interact with their mother.
- Female guinea pigs can become pregnant again soon after giving birth, so careful breeding management is needed.
FAQs
What is a baby guinea pig called?
A baby guinea pig is called a pup.
Can newborn guinea pigs see?
Yes, guinea pig pups are born with their eyes open and can see right away.
Do guinea pig pups need special food?
They start eating solid food early but should also nurse from their mother for proper nutrition.
When can you separate guinea pig babies from their mother?
You can separate them at about 3 weeks old, especially male pups to prevent early mating.
How often do guinea pigs have babies?
A female guinea pig can give birth up to 5 times a year, but frequent breeding is not healthy for her.
Final Thoughts
Knowing what a newborn guinea pig is called and understanding their early life helps owners care for them properly. Guinea pig pups are fascinating creatures that are born ready to explore. Providing a safe, nurturing environment from the start ensures they grow into healthy, friendly adults.
