|
Vital Statistics
- Scientific name: Cavia porcellus
- Life span: 3-4 years
- Potential life span: 6-7 years
- Desirable environmental temperature range: 65-75 F
- Desirable relative humidity range: 40-70% (50% is considered ideal)
- Recommended age at 1st breeding: male: 3-4 months; female: <3-7 months (not after 7 months)
- Length of estrous: (heat cycle) 16 days
- Length of estrus (period during which female is receptive to male for copulation): 8 hours
- Gestation (pregnancy period): averages 63-68 days
- Average litter size: 3-4 young (range, 1-6)
- Age at weaning: 2-3 weeks
Through selective breeding efforts, guinea pigs are found in an array of colors and coat types from which to choose. Four primary varieties are commonly
encountered in the pet industry. The Shorthair or English is characterized by having a uniformly short hair coat. The Abyssinian has whorls or rosettes in their short, rough, wiry coat.
The Silky is a large variety distinguished by its medium length silky hair. The Peruvian is recognized by its very long silky hair. All types are commonly kept as pets.
Human Allergies to Guinea Pig Dander: Certain people are allergic to the hair and/or dander of guinea pigs. People working with guinea pigs in laboratory situations are more likely to develop such allergies because of their continual association with them. Signs include itchy eyes, sneezing, runny nose, persistent cough, shortness of breath, wheezing, a skin rash, and anaphylactic shock (a true medical emergency). Owners of pet guinea pigs may also be susceptible, and a medical doctor should be consulted about suspected allergy problems if a guinea pig is kept as a pet in the household. Guinea pig owners with such a suspected allergy may want to consult an allergist.
|
