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Guinea pigs: a UK guide to care, health, law and costs
A UK guide to keeping guinea pigs: what they need, how long they live, health and cost, the law and what to do in an emergency.
This is general information for the UK. It is not veterinary or legal advice, and every animal is different. Speak to a vet about your pet's health, and check current rules on GOV.UK, or with your local authority. The Be Pet Wise app can also show rules for other countries.
At a glance
| Typical lifespan | About 5–7 years |
|---|---|
| Daily time | Feeding, cleaning and gentle handling |
| Space | A large enclosure with floor space, not a small cage |
| Best for | Households that can keep two or more |
Care and food
Guinea pigs need unlimited hay, fresh vegetables and a measured amount of pellets. They cannot make their own vitamin C, so it must come from fresh food or a suitable supplement every day. Provide a spacious enclosure with hiding places, and clean it often.
Character and suitability
Guinea pigs are social, gentle and vocal, and are happiest in a compatible pair or group. They are easily startled, so handle them calmly and support their bodies. They are active throughout the day in short bursts.
Health and lifespan
Watch for vitamin C deficiency (scurvy), overgrown teeth, skin mites, respiratory infections and urinary stones. They hide illness, so weigh them regularly and check appetite and droppings. A vet experienced with small animals is important.
Allergies
Hay dust and guinea pig dander can trigger allergies and asthma symptoms. Spend time with them before adopting if allergies are a concern.
The law in the UK
Guinea pigs are covered by animal welfare law: owners must provide a suitable environment, diet, companionship, the ability to behave normally, and protection from pain, suffering and disease.
What it costs
Budget for a large enclosure, hay, fresh vegetables and pellets weekly, bedding, vet visits and insurance or savings, and at least two guinea pigs. Small-animal vet care can be costly.
Emergencies: when to call a vet
Seek a vet urgently if a guinea pig stops eating or drinking, has laboured breathing, diarrhoea, a swollen belly, is unable to pass urine, or has a sudden change in behaviour. They can decline fast.
Adopting or buying
Rescues frequently rehome guinea pigs, often in pairs. When buying, check that they are healthy and that any pair is the same sex or neutered.
Frequently asked questions
How long do guinea pigs live?
Most live around 5 to 7 years, sometimes longer with good care.
Can guinea pigs live alone?
They are social animals and are generally happier in pairs or groups of compatible guinea pigs.
Why do guinea pigs need vitamin C?
They cannot make their own vitamin C, so they need it from fresh vegetables or a suitable supplement every day to avoid scurvy.
Are guinea pigs good pets for children?
They can be, but children need adult supervision, and an adult must take responsibility for care, cleaning and health checks.
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Open Be Pet WiseBrowse all guidesReviewed 2026-09-20. General information for the UK, not veterinary or legal advice. See a vet for any health concern.