Click to Skip Ahead
While not the most popular pet in the United States, there are still approximately 1.5 million homes with Guinea Pigs. Considering that many guinea pig enthusiasts have more than one of these adorable creatures, that means about 4 million Guinea Pigs live in America. Guinea pigs are native to warm climates, and they don’t hibernate. If your Guinea Pig appears very quiet or lethargic, you should consult with a vet immediately.
Knowing that pet Guinea Pigs don’t hibernate, you probably have other questions about this mesmerizing mammal. Do guinea pigs go into a state of lowered metabolism, or do they stay still for long periods? Below are the answers to those questions and some excellent tips for keeping your guinea pig healthy and happy.
Why Do Guinea Pigs Not Hibernate?
Guinea pigs do not hibernate, likely due to their evolutionary background. Unlike some other small mammals, such as certain species of hamsters that can enter torpor, guinea pigs evolved in warm, stable climates in the South American Andes, where food was available year-round and harsh winters were uncommon. Most animals that hibernate do it because they need to survive a long, harsh winter with little or no food. In warm weather, there’s never a need to develop this survival strategy.
Do Guinea Pigs Do Anything That Looks Like Hibernation?
Guinea pigs don’t hibernate, but when exposed to cold temperatures, they may become unusually quiet or lethargic, which can sometimes be mistaken for hibernation. However, this isn’t a natural adaptation; it’s a sign that they may be too cold and are potentially at risk for hypothermia. If your guinea pig appears unusually still or inactive for long periods, especially in a chilly environment, it’s important to warm them up and seek veterinary advice if needed.
What Temperature Is Best for a Guinea Pig to Stay Healthy?
Guinea pigs can adapt to a range of temperatures, but you should try to keep a stable temperature as much as possible. The accepted temperature range for healthy adult guinea pigs is between 65°F and 75°F (18°C to 24°C).
What Does It Mean When a Guinea Pig Turns on Its Side?
If your guinea pig is lying on its side and looks relaxed, it could simply mean that it feels safe and comfortable — just like a dog or cat stretching out for a nap. This is often a sign of contentment. However, if your guinea pig is lying on its side and appears cold, unresponsive, or unusually still, this may signal a medical emergency, such as hypothermia or illness. Guinea pigs do not hibernate or slow down their metabolism in the cold, so any unusual inactivity should be evaluated by a veterinarian.
Conclusion
There are no species of guinea pigs that hibernate. There’s no need for them to do so because guinea pigs come from a part of the world with a warm climate and never evolved to need hibernation for survival. If you notice that your guinea pig goes into a deep, sleep-like state, you should speak to your vet immediately.
Featured Image Credit: Dev_Maryna, Shutterstock
