The Texel guinea pig is one of the species that attracts the most attention because of its distinctive fur. It is the most difficult to obtain, and somewhat more expensive than the most common ones, but many choose it when it comes to having a pet.
But how is the Texel guinea pig? Where does it come from? And, above all, what care do you need as a pet? This is all and much more that we are going to tell you at this time.
Characteristics of the Texel Guinea Pig
The Texel guinea pig can reach up to 20–26 cm, although it is more common to be around 20–23 cm. Of course, what attracts the most attention is undoubtedly its fur, long and curly, or with waves.
With respect to its physical characteristics, it is also different from others, whose size is somewhat smaller than others. In addition, its head is round and quite broad, which protrudes from its body. And speaking of it, it will look like it’s wearing clothes, because its hair, if trimmed properly, will hide its legs and you can think of it as a dress. Yes, indeed, his hair in the muzzle is not long, but short.
Its normal fur is usually brown with white, but the truth is that it can achieve a wide variety of colors, although three colors predominate: white, black and brown), and you can find it in one color or two or a combination of the two. Three colors (this one even more rare).
How does the Texel guinea pig behave
As with many, the Texel guinea pig is very inquisitive, active and playful . She loves being with people because they are so affectionate, and this means she needs to be pampered every day to feel loved. They are also very docile and usually don’t get angry easily (unless you go too far or feel threatened). Also, they are always willing to play outside the cage (as it is important to take them out for exercise).
stay
The Texel guinea pig, as is the case with others, does not have a very natural origin. And is that, although guinea pigs in general are native to the Americas (specifically, South America), the truth is that in their case, their origin is rather a laboratory (or a place where two types of guinea pigs are bred) . Experimented with, one of the Sheltie breed and the other of the Rex breed ). In the 80s, when the Texel breed was born, it was as a result of the crossbreeding that was done, and that gave rise to the characteristic features of its breed: long hair (of a sheltie) and curly hair ( A K) Sheltie). rex) that grabs so much attention.
Now, despite this combination of the two breeds, they were not very “happy” with it and they continue to genetically modify it, until today the Texel Guinea Pig is the same, which was declared an official breed in the 90’s going.
Caring for a Texel Guinea Pig as a Pet
Now that you know a little more about the Texel guinea pig, you may want to keep one as a pet. It is somewhat inexpensive, as you can find this species in pet stores or through breeders. But it is highly recommended that you know what care you need to take to prevent the animal from getting sick, having a short life expectancy or not being happy.
cage
To begin with, the Texel guinea pig is an animal that will require a cage to live in. It must be wide enough for you to walk in it with some freedom, so you’ll need to think of the guinea pig as an adult, not a baby (if you get it small).
Even though the cage is large, you need to take it out daily for exercise, so having a playpen will allow you to keep it under control and not go where you can’t find it.
hygiene
Another care that you should provide to the Texel guinea pig is good hygiene. Not only the cage, which you will have to clean often if you don’t want it to stink, and disinfect it thoroughly weekly so it doesn’t have health issues.
We also talk about the cleanliness of the animal. And that its long coat “forces” you to brush it daily to remove residues or dead hair, so that you can maintain shiny and healthy hair. In addition, brushing it will help you keep it clean without bathing, although you can do it, but it is advisable not to abuse it.
You should also devote some time to ear and ear hygiene since, with curled ears and hair, they are more prone to accumulation of dirt in addition to natural earwax.
In addition, daily exercise is essential, as guinea pigs are prone to gaining weight and not being let out of the cage can make the animal stressed, behaving negatively in and out of the cage when you let it out.
Texel Guinea Pig Feeding
The diet of the Texel guinea pig is no different from that of other guinea pigs, as they all eat in the same way. In this case, we are talking about a diet based primarily on high-quality feed. However, in order to supplement its nutrients, it is highly recommended that they be given fruits and vegetables (whatever is allowed for these animals), daily. Of course, remember that, after a few hours, when it is not in good condition you will have to remove it from the cage to prevent it from eating.
Along with this, you can give it hay and alfalfa, which, along with the above, will give it the necessary supplements in the form of fiber and vitamins that the feed does not provide 100%.
Lastly, it is important that you always have fresh water in the cage, usually through bottled drinkers.
Breeding the Texel Guinea Pig
The reproduction of the Texel guinea pig is similar to that of other guinea pigs. Which is to say that once they are sexually mature, which is around two months old, they may already be able to mate with young, and they usually give birth. Gestation shorter than usual, about 60 days , usually about three pups.
These will be dependent on the mother as they will feed on breast milk during the first month, so you must provide them with extra vitamins and nutrients to keep them healthy during pregnancy.
After that time, it is recommended that the puppies be separated to avoid space problems and fights for territory.