Below you can find some of the basic care guidelines for rabbits & guinea pigs
Rabbit Basic Care
- Nails should be trimmed approx. every 3 months.
- Your rabbit's living quarters should be cleaned out regularly so it is kept hygienically and not at risk of 'fly strike'.
- Rabbits should live free of vermin.
- They should be sheltered from the harsh elements such as wind, rain and heat.
- Your rabbit should be accommodated in an area which is of plenty adequate size and strength for the breed type with plenty of room to exercise and stretch.
- Rabbits should be kept free from infestation of lice and mites etc and treated effectively if anything occurs.
- Your rabbit should be fed a good quality wholesome diet, high in fibre and low in protein to give it the best chance of good health with access to clean, fresh water daily.
- Any underlying ailments should be monitored accordingly to limit discomfort to the animal and seek veterinary treatment if necessary.
- They should be groomed regularly to assist moult and general coat condition, and kept in a fit, healthy condition with regular exercise and fussing, whilst checking them over at the same time.
- They must be bedded on fresh, clean, sufficient bedding which is suitable for rabbits.
- Rabbits should not experience boredom, and instead be stimulated with rabbit friendly toys to keep them occupied.
- They should be handled as much as possible, whilst still allowing them to have their own space, to achieve a friendly and content animal.
Guinea Pig Basic Care
- Nails need to be trimmed approx. every 3 months.
- The guinea pigs living space should be cleaned out regularly so the area is hygienic and they are not at risk of 'fly strike'.
- Cavies should live free from vermin.
- Your animal should be sheltered by the harsh elements such as wind, rain and heat.
- Guinea pigs should be kept in an area that is of plenty adequate size and of suitable quality for the amount of guinea pigs housed.
- Guinea pigs should ideally be bathed every 3 months to keep grease at bay. Here you should clean the 'grease spot' gland to minimise build up.
- You should ensure they are free from lice, mites and statics by using an insecticidal shampoo and by spraying regularly and treated with the appropriate medication if an infestation should occur.
- Guinea pigs should be fed a good quality wholesome diet. They are vegetarian so lots of greens and fruit/veg is a must. They need vitamin C from their diet so must always be fed sufficient guinea pig food which contains vitamin C made especially for their own species. With clean, fresh water daily.
- Any underlying health conditions should be monitored effectively for their well being.
- Cavies should be checked regularly for any sudden outbreak of insects and treated immediately.
- Cavies can be groomed gently with a soft brush. However longhaired varieties must be kept free from knots and matting by grooming little and often and cutting off any unwanted knots. Longhaired varieties should be clipped back if they are not for 'show coat' purposes. Otherwise they will be managed properly by wrapping.
- Your guinea pig should be fit and healthy with regular exercise and be handled often to ensure it is a content
animal. - They must be bedded on sufficient and suitable bedding for their breed type.