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General Information
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Common Name: Crested Guinea Pig
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Scientific Name: Cavia porcellus
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Breed Group: Smooth-coated breeds
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Origin: Domesticated from South American cavies; breed standardized in Europe and North America
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Recognition: Accepted by most guinea pig associations (ACBA, ARBA, etc.)
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Types:
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American Crested – white crest with a different-colored body
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English Crested – crest the same color as the rest of the coat
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🔹 Physical Description
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Size: 20–25 cm (8–10 in)
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Weight: 700–1,200 g (1.5–2.6 lbs)
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Build: Sturdy, compact body with smooth sides
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Coat:
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Short, sleek, and smooth like the American guinea pig
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Distinctive crest (rosette) centered on the forehead, pointing outward in a swirl
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Colors & Patterns: Wide variety (solid, bicolor, tricolor, agouti, brindle, etc.)
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Lifespan: 5–7 years (sometimes 8+)
🔹 Behavior & Lifestyle
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Personality: Friendly, calm, curious, and gentle
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Temperament: Easygoing, great for beginners and families with children
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Social Needs: Very social—must be kept with at least one companion guinea pig
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Communication: Very vocal, using the same sounds as other breeds—wheeks (excitement), purrs (contentment), rumbles (dominance), chirps (rare, mysterious sound)
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Grooming Needs: Very low—only occasional brushing to keep coat neat
🔹 Diet
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Type: Strict herbivores
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Staple Diet:
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Unlimited hay (timothy, orchard grass, meadow hay)
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Daily vegetables (leafy greens, bell peppers, zucchini, carrots)
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Guinea pig pellets fortified with Vitamin C
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Vitamin C Needs: Critical—20–30 mg/day
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Treats: Small fruit pieces (apple, kiwi, strawberry, orange) occasionally
🔹 Reproduction
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Maturity: 2–3 months old
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Gestation Period: 59–72 days
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Litter Size: 2–4 pups (sometimes more)
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Young: Born precocial—furred, eyes open, and eating solids within hours
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