The Abyssinian guinea pig is one of the most common guinea pig species. However, he is odd in that he has a distinct hairstyle. Also his personality and other physical aspects make him different from others.
So if you want to know the characteristics of the Abyssinian Guinea Pig , know where it comes from, and the care it needs as a pet, it is time for you to see what we have prepared for you, Which is one of the most complete files you will find.
Characteristics of the Abyssinian Guinea Pig
The Abyssinian guinea pig is a mammal of size similar to that of any other guinea pig, that is to say, between 23 and 27 centimeters. However, in terms of weight, it is slightly different as they are somewhat fatter than other guinea pigs. If we talk about the average, its weight is about 950 grams or even one kilo.
It is characterized by its fur, as it is long, not to the point of other guinea pigs, such as the Peruvian, but it has longer hair than usual and, in addition, has whorls. In fact, it’s common to have between 6 and 8 eddies on the body , which will make it look like your hair is disheveled, as each strand will be pointing in a different direction. Its hair can be of various colors, although tortoise shell, roan or brindle are predominant, which are also rare in other species of guinea pigs.
Its ears also stand out, somewhat large and almost devoid of fur at the tip, drooping down and of the same color tone as its fur. Legs, shortness and almost no tail complete the physical appearance of this Abyssinian guinea pig.
Their life expectancy is also high, as they can live between 5 and 8 years.
character of guinea pig
For the way he is, the Abyssinian guinea pig is quite active. They are restless and mischievous, plus they have a lot of stored energy that you must help to burn so that there are no behavioral problems (nervousness, hyperactivity…).
Also, they are also quite intelligent; In fact, they are said to be the smartest guinea pigs around, which is why they can easily pick up tricks if taught in a short amount of time.
They require a lot of attention, especially to play with them or move them, to burn all the energy they have, but also because they are curious and the need to run keeps them going even in captivity .
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Guinea pigs in general are animals native to the Americas, especially South America. And in the case of the Abyssinian guinea pig, we find this origin.
However, as we do not know exactly when they appeared, because the truth is that there is no record, but it is known that when they appeared, because of their strange appearance, they became very popular and only a few In time, they became a favorite pet of young and old.
Abyssinian Guinea Pig Care
Today, the Abyssinian guinea pig is one of the most sought after pets. However, it needs attention to care for it to stay happy and healthy for a long time. And specifically, which we will discuss below.
Abyssinian Guinea Pig Cage
The cage of the Abyssinian guinea pig practically does not differ from that of other guinea pigs of similar size. That is to say, we’re talking about a spacious cage, but not too spacious, enough that it has a place to eat, another place to rest, and the odd toy.
In addition to the cage, you will need a park where it can enjoy, run and exercise, especially if you do not want it to start destroying your cage and everything in it. Also, you have to be mindful of her, because she needs attention.
It is recommended that you let her out every day, but if you can’t, at least every other day, otherwise she may become aggressive or upset.
It is also necessary to maintain good hygiene in the cage, cleaning it regularly, as well as the guinea pig itself. Since, although it does not like to bathe, it needs to be kept clean and carefully brushed with fur .
If you notice that it smells, you can also give it a dry bath or sanitary napkins, as baths are not good for this species.
Feeding the Abyssinian Guinea Pig
Like other guinea pigs, the Abyssinian guinea pig has a feed-based diet. But this should be supplemented with fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as hay and water.
When choosing a feed, always choose a high-quality one as it may contain all the basic nutrients your guinea pig will need. In addition, this way you can introduce vegetables and fruits little by little because there are some guinea pigs that do not like it and you will have to mix them with the feed (in this case we recommend that you add a little Because, that way, it won’t spoil the food much. quantity if you have to remove it because it doesn’t eat it).
As a “reward” you can give him some alfalfa, which he loves and will cover all the vitamins he needs.
Breeding the Abyssinian Guinea Pig
The breeding of the Abyssinian guinea pig is not very different from the rest of the guinea pigs. That is, it becomes sexually mature in 2-3 months, although experts recommend waiting a little longer for the animal to be fully developed and in a position to breed. Once that time has passed, a pair will reproduce with an estimated gestation period of approximately 63 days. During that time, the Abyssinian guinea pig’s diet changes slightly, as it may not be given offal, meat or dairy products, and its intake of alfalfa may be increased.
It will give birth to 4 to 6 pups, although it is most common to have only three pups, that is, they will be completely dependent on the mother, who will provide them with breast milk for about a month. After that time, the young can be separated so that there are no territoriality or cannibalism problems.