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General Information
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Common Name: Abyssinian Guinea Pig
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Scientific Name: Cavia porcellus
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Breed Group: Rough-coated breeds
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Origin: Ancient South America (domesticated by the Inca); later standardized in Europe
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Recognition: Recognized by guinea pig breeder associations worldwide (ACBA, ARBA, etc.)
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Popularity: Very popular for both pets and shows
🔹 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: Compact, sturdy body with a broad head
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Coat:
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Distinctive feature: short-to-medium length, rough-textured coat that grows in rosettes (whorls of fur)
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Minimum of 8 rosettes are required for show standards, arranged symmetrically (2 on shoulders, 2 on hips, 4 along the back/sides)
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Fur length: 3–4 cm (1–1.5 in), giving a spiky, tousled appearance
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Colors & Patterns: Wide variety—solid, bicolor, tricolor, agouti, brindle, roan, and more
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Lifespan: 5–7 years (sometimes up to 8 with excellent care)
🔹 Behavior & Lifestyle
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Personality: Curious, active, playful, and often cheeky; more mischievous than American guinea pigs
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Temperament: Outgoing and affectionate once bonded, but may be a little more energetic and harder to handle for very young children
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Social Needs: Thrive in pairs or groups; loneliness leads to stress and depression
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Vocalizations: Expressive—“wheeks” (excitement), “purrs” (content), “rumbles” (dominance/mating), “chutters” (exploration)
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Grooming Needs: More than short-haired breeds—coat needs regular brushing to keep rosettes neat and prevent matting
🔹 Diet
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Type: Strict herbivores
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Staple Diet:
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Unlimited hay (timothy or orchard grass) for digestion and dental wear
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Daily fresh vegetables (leafy greens, bell pepper, cucumber, carrot, zucchini)
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Fortified guinea pig pellets with Vitamin C
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Vitamin C Needs: Critical, as guinea pigs cannot produce their own (20–30 mg/day)
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Treats: Occasional fruit (apple, strawberry, orange, kiwi)
🔹 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 able to eat solid food within hours
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