Two years ago it was rabbits as “starter pets” – now guinea pigs are suffering. 🐹
Two years ago, rabbits were considered “beginner pets,” and now they have been replaced by guinea pigs. Both are wrong and unfortunate.
Of course, children should learn to treat animals with love and grow up alongside them. However, hamsters, rabbits, and guinea pigs are anything but “cute plush toys” that can form the basis for responsible pet ownership. Small cages are still widely offered, while truly animal-appropriate living conditions are underestimated and rarely fully provided. About two years ago, rabbits were mainly treated as “living toys” in children’s rooms; today, guinea pigs are the trend.
2025 – rise in abandoned guinea pigs
In particular, the Assisi estate of the Austrian Animal Welfare Association is seeing a significant increase in surrendered guinea pigs. In 2025, they took in almost twice as many “squeakers” as the year before.
“Guinea pigs are not beginner pets, and false expectations combined with unsuitable housing directly lead to animal suffering. Many underestimate the daily time commitment of at least one hour as well as the requirements for space, diet, and social interaction.”
— Alfred Kofler, Head of Animal Care, Assisi-Hof Stockerau
No walks and no training
At first glance, it is clear why these small rodents are often chosen as a “starter model” for a child’s pet: animals that do not need walking, training, or discipline seem like they cannot become overwhelming. However, this misconception deprives many animals of a species-appropriate and enriching life and is truly unfair, as a small cage and occasional feeding are by no means sufficient.
At the Assisi-Hof in Stockerau, dozens of guinea pigs currently live in spacious, animal-appropriate indoor and outdoor enclosures. It is one of the most important temporary shelters for guinea pigs in Lower Austria.
Guinea pigs need plenty of exercise, a structured environment, the company of their own kind, and a fiber-rich diet. “A lack of knowledge about their needs is leading to more and more animals being surrendered, while suitable temporary housing options for guinea pigs are scarce,” explains Alfred Kofler.
Why guinea pigs end up in shelters
The most common reasons for surrender are lack of space, time constraints, and health issues caused by improper feeding. How dramatic the consequences can be is shown by the case of a guinea pig named “Roberta,” who was found sick and abandoned in a plastic bag at a road intersection.
Animal expert Alfred Kofler: “Guinea pigs are shy animals and not cuddle animals.” Frequent handling is stressful for them—a fact that is often underestimated, especially in families with children. “When they must be picked up, care is essential: one hand supports the chest, the other the hindquarters.”
Solitude
Group living is equally important: guinea pigs should never be kept alone. Ideally, they live in groups of at least four animals, with a castrated male and several females of similar age.
Guinea pigs need fresh hay at all times, as their teeth grow continuously throughout their lives. They also require a diet rich in vitamin C, such as peppers, broccoli, or parsley, as they cannot produce vitamin C themselves. Diets high in grains quickly lead to obesity and health problems.
Healthy and happy!
- Number of animals: at least four, ideally a castrated male with several females
- Space: at least 10 m² of enclosure, with a run of 2 m or more
- Free movement: 1–2 hours daily, up to 3 hours for smaller enclosures
- Equipment: houses, tunnels, ramps, hiding places
- Diet: hay always available, fresh vegetables, vitamin C
- Enrichment and activity: foraging games and feeding games (offer food by hand…)
If you are interested in these squeaky rodents, visit a shelter or adopt one that is looking for a new home because it is no longer wanted. These adorable animals are waiting for their second chance.
Translated and adapted from: Heute.at
