The lovable guinea pig isn't a pig from Guinea. Often called Cavy by serious fanciers, this domesticated rodent was developed in the Andes mountains of South America, probably from the Montane Guinea Pig (Cavia tschudii). As a large rodent capable of many broods a year, the guinea pig was raised for food as early as 5,000 BC. But it was more than just a menu item.
With their diurnal habits, curious nature, and ability to communicate with a variety of sounds, Cavies naturally attracted humans worldwide in search of the perfect pet. At one time, they were also highly regarded as a lab animal, and many strains were developed in the pursuit of science, including a hairless strain which soon became an unusual pet variety nicknamed the Skinny Pig.
Because of its long history of domestication and its willingness to breed several times a year, the Guinea Pig has been developed into many beautiful and interesting breeds. If you have a competitive streak, you may want to investigate one of the varieties developed specifically for exhibition.
The lovable guinea pig isn't a pig from Guinea. Often called Cavy by serious fanciers, this domesticated rodent was developed in the Andes mountains of South America, probably from the Montane Guinea Pig (Cavia tschudii). As a large rodent capable of many broods a year, the guinea pig was raised for food as early as 5,000 BC. But it was more than just a menu item.
With their diurnal habits, curious nature, and ability to communicate with a variety of sounds, Cavies naturally attracted humans worldwide in search of the perfect pet. At one time, they were also highly regarded as a lab animal, and many strains were developed in the pursuit of science, including a hairless strain which soon became an unusual pet variety nicknamed the Skinny Pig.
Because of its long history of domestication and its willingness to breed several times a year, the Guinea Pig has been developed into many beautiful and interesting breeds. If you have a competitive streak, you may want to investigate one of the varieties developed specifically for exhibition.
Texel Guinea Pig
1137 days ago
Teddy Guinea Pig
1137 days ago
American Guinea Pig
1304 days ago
Skinny Guinea Pig
1305 days ago
Abyssinian Guinea Pig
1312 days ago
Peruvian Guinea Pig
1322 days ago
American Guinea Pig
1323 days ago
American Guinea Pig
1509 days ago
American Guinea Pig
1615 days ago
Abyssinian Guinea Pig
1807 days ago
