Guinea pigs, also known as cavies, may seem like easy and inexpensive pets, but owning one requires a lot more than just providing food for them. These furry creatures require time, effort, and money to keep them healthy and happy. If you’re considering getting a Guinea pig of your own, it’s important to know what you’re getting into and how much it will cost you.
One of the most important things to know about Guinea pigs is that they are social creatures and can get lonely if kept alone. It’s best to adopt them in pairs, which will cost you anywhere between $20 and $40. Buying one from a pet store can cost anywhere from $25 to $50. Keep in mind that you’ll need to double the costs if you decide to adopt a pair.
Before bringing your new pet home, you need to make sure you have everything they need. The initial setup and supplies for your Guinea pig should cost between $100 and $550, depending on where you live and your budget. You’ll need to invest in a cage or enclosure that provides enough space for your Guinea to move around, as well as bedding, food bowls, and food supplies.
Guinea pigs require a specific diet that includes pellets, grass, hay, and fresh veggies. The cost of these supplies can vary depending on what you choose and where you live. You can expect to spend between $8 and $42 a month on food.
In addition to the one-time costs of setting up your Guinea pig’s home, you’ll also need to consider ongoing expenses. Health care for Guinea pigs can be expensive, and while they don’t require vaccinations, they do need regular checkups to maintain their health. Expect to spend between $10 and $20 a month on check-ups and up to $20 a month on dental work. Treating your Guinea for parasites is also important and can cost between $5 and $20 a month.
While pet insurance isn’t required, it can be costly to take your Guinea pig to the vet. Pet insurance plans for Guinea pigs can range from $5 to $16 a month, depending on the company and the level of coverage you choose.
Maintaining your Guinea pig’s environment is also important. Keeping their cage or enclosure clean, comfortable, and well-maintained can cost between $5 and $16 a month for bedding, toys, and chews.
Entertaining your Guinea pig is also important. While they don’t need expensive toys, they do need plenty of chews to keep their teeth healthy and activity to keep them happy. You can expect to spend up to $8 a month on toys and chews.
In total, you can expect to spend between $33 and $166 a month on caring for your Guinea pig, depending on how much you choose to spend on food, health care, and supplies.
While owning a Guinea pig may seem expensive, it’s possible to keep them happy and healthy on a budget. Providing high-quality food and a comfortable home is important, but you can save money on toys and entertainment. With proper care and attention, your Guinea pig can bring joy to your life for years to come.
