Whether you’re a first-time owner or a lifelong pet person, this is your happy place. Pick your pet, meet the breed, and pick up care tips, fun facts and the right food to keep them thriving.
- 1Choose your pet
- 2Meet your pet
Small Pets care guide
Guinea Pigs and Hamsters
Tiny pets with big personalities.
- LifespanGuinea pigs 5 to 7 years, hamsters 2 to 3
- DietHay, pellets and fresh veg
- CompanyGuinea pigs pair up, hamsters live alone
- EnergyBusy and curious
About
Guinea pigs and hamsters are popular small pets, but they have very different needs. Guinea pigs are sociable and vocal, while hamsters are solitary, nocturnal little explorers.
Personality and behaviour
Guinea pigs squeak and popcorn with excitement, and love a friend. Hamsters are curious, quick and most active in the evening.
Care tips
Housing
Choose the biggest cage you can, with deep bedding and a hideout. Hamsters need a solid running wheel of the right size.
Exercise
Daily time out of the cage in a safe space for guinea pigs, and lots of tunnels and things to chew for hamsters.
Health
Guinea pigs cannot make their own vitamin C, so they need fresh vegetables daily. Watch for overgrown teeth or nails and changes in eating.
Recommended food
Guinea pigs need unlimited hay, guinea pig pellets and vitamin C-rich vegetables. Hamsters do well on a quality hamster mix with a little fresh vegetable as a treat.
Fun facts
- Guinea pigs do a happy little hop called a popcorn.
- Hamsters store food in stretchy cheek pouches.
- A guinea pig's teeth never stop growing.
This guide is general information to help you get started. It isn’t a substitute for advice from your vet, who knows your animal best.