Did you know that July 16th is Guinea Pig Appreciation Day? These adorable little guys may not be as popular as Fido and Fluffy, but they do make great pets. One way to make your tiny buddy feel appreciated is to offer lots of toys. Small pets need entertainment and enrichment, too! Here, a Las Vegas, NV vet offers some tips on making cavy toys. 

Cozies, Tents, or Beds

Guinea pigs love to snuggle up in soft, comfy beds. You can find cute ones online and in stores. It’s also pretty easy to make small beds and tents for your furry friend. This is a great way to get some extra life out of an old towel, tee shirt, or throw blanket that has seen better days. Look online for ideas and instructions.

Hay There 

One thing Guinea pigs and rabbits have in common? They both need plenty of suitable hay, such as Timothy hay. You can weave hay into different shapes for your pet. Or, put some in a paper bag or cardboard box. 

Tiny Tree

Wild cavies eat lots of roots and fibers. Therefore, it’s no surprise that these guys love nibbling on wooden toys and/or fresh branches. However, there are a few ‘cavy-eats’ here. Stick with woods you know are safe, such as apple. Do some research on this, as many trees and plants are toxic to pets. Also, wash and disinfect the branch before you hand it over. Want a cute option? Poke holes through a toilet paper tube, and thread the sticks into that. 

Paper

Paper is great because it’s cheap and versatile. Fold it into triangles, boxes, chains, or snowflakes, or crumple it up around a snack. You can also fill a box or paper bag with shredded paper. Voila!

Mazes And Tunnels

Mazes and tunnels are also big hits with small animals. You can make them out of cardboard boxes, PVC pipe, or paper mache. Just make sure to only use safe materials.

Tips

Safety first! Don’t give your tiny buddy anything small or sharp. If offering wooden items, check for things like splinters or nails. Finally, avoid things that have varnish, dye, glitter, or paint, as well as hardwoods, such as cedar and pine. Ask your vet for more information.

Our Advice on Guinea Pig Toys in 2024

When is Guinea Pig Appreciation Day, and why are guinea pigs considered great pets?

Guinea Pig Appreciation Day is celebrated on July 16th. Guinea pigs are considered excellent pets due to their friendly and gentle nature. They are relatively easy to care for, making them suitable for both adults and responsible children. These social creatures enjoy human interaction, forming strong bonds with their owners. Their playful antics and vocalizations add charm to any household. Additionally, guinea pigs are miniature and don’t require as much space as larger pets, fitting well into various living environments.

What types of cozy beds or tents can be made for guinea pigs, and how?

Cozy beds or tents for guinea pigs can be made using soft, safe materials. One easy method is repurposing old towels, fleece blankets, or t-shirts. Cut the fabric to size and sew or tie the corners to create a tent shape. Fold and stitch the fabric into a small pillow or pad for a bed. Ensure no loose threads or small pieces can be chewed off and ingested. These homemade options provide a warm, snug area for guinea pigs to rest and feel secure. Always use materials that are easy to clean and replace as needed for hygiene.

What are safe and unsafe woods for making guinea pig chew toys?

Safe woods for guinea pig chew toys include apple, aspen, bamboo, and willow. These are non-toxic and safe for gnawing. Avoid cherry, citrus, oak, pine, redwood, cedar, and any wood treated with pesticides, chemicals, or varnish. These can be toxic if chewed and ingested. It’s crucial to ensure the wood is clean and untreated. If using branches from outside, thoroughly wash and bake them in the oven at a low temperature to kill parasites. Always research or consult a vet before introducing new wood types to your guinea pig.

How can mazes and tunnels be safely constructed for guinea pigs?

Use sturdy, non-toxic materials like cardboard or PVC pipe to safely construct mazes and tunnels for guinea pigs. Ensure no sharp edges or small parts can be chewed off and ingested. The tunnels should be wide enough for the guinea pig to move comfortably without getting stuck. Avoid using materials like cedar or pine wood, as their oils and scent can be harmful. Keep the design simple to prevent trapping or injuring the guinea pig. Regularly inspect for signs of wear and tear and replace as necessary to maintain safety.

What safety precautions should be taken when making or choosing guinea pig toys?

When making or choosing guinea pig toys, ensure they are made of safe, non-toxic materials. Avoid small parts that could be chewed off and ingested, posing a choking hazard. Steer clear of sharp edges or anything that could entangle or trap the guinea pig. Use untreated wood and avoid toxic woods like cedar or pine. For any fabric toys, ensure there are no loose threads. Regularly inspect toys for wear and tear and remove damaged items to prevent injury. Always supervise new toys to see how your guinea pig interacts with them.

Do you have questions about Guinea pig care? Contact us, your local Las Vegas, NV pet clinic, today!