Publisher's Synopsis
Cavees, another name for guinea pigs, are adorable, outgoing rodents that have always been popular as pets. In this chapter we delve into the wonderful world of guinea pigs and discover their origins, their history and the special characteristics that make them popular pets for people around the world. Origin and history: The indigenous peoples of Peru, Ecuador and Bolivia are credited with domesticating guinea pigs thousands of years ago in the Andean region of South America. Guinea pigs were valued by prehistoric societies such as the Incas, Moche and Chimú. They were originally built for food and ceremonial purposes. In the 16th century, European explorers, particularly the Spanish conquistadors, brought guinea pigs to Europe, after which they immediately became popular as exotic pets among nobles and royalty. Through trade and colonization, guinea pigs were eventually introduced to other parts of the world in the 19th century, where they became established as pets in Europe. Characteristics of a guinea pig include: Small herbivorous rodents of the genus Cavia are called guinea pigs. Due to thousands of years of selective human breeding, farmed guinea pigs, unlike their wild counterparts, have a wide range of hair colors, patterns, and lengths. The gentle and submissive temperament of guinea pigs is one of their most charming characteristics. They love cuddles and loving relationships with their human guardians and are known for their outgoing personalities. Guinea pigs can use a variety of sounds to communicate, including chirps, purrs, chirps, and growls. These vocalizations can be used to express discomfort, attract attention, or express joy, among other things. Another notable characteristic of these animals is the herbivorous diet of guinea pigs, which consists mainly of hay, fresh vegetables, fruits and pellets specifically adapted to their nutritional needs. To keep them healthy and happy, it is necessary to provide them with a balanced diet. In addition to their reputation for being clean, guinea pigs are also known for their frequent brushing, which helps keep their coat clean and free of parasites. But sometimes pets need help from their owners with grooming, especially if they are long-haired breeds or if they have health problems that make grooming difficult. Guinea pigs are known for their ability to reproduce, as well as their persistent behavior and careful grooming. Pigs or female pigs can give birth to several offspring in a single litter and have a relatively short gestation period of 59 to 72 days. All in all, guinea pigs are wonderful pets that brighten lives and provide companionship wherever they go. Knowing your guinea pig's background and unique characteristics is the first step in providing it with a loving, nurturing home, whether you are an experienced pet owner or considering getting a pet for the first time.