How to Keep a Guinea Pig Cool in Summer

Guinea pigs should be kept in temperatures around 65 – 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Above 80 degrees or below 60 degrees is detrimental to their health. Many people wonder how to keep guinea pigs cool in the summer. Here are some some tips below!

Give your guinea pig vegetables that are high in water content! Hydrating vegetables such as cucumber can be fed in moderation, to add more water to your guinea pigs' diet at times of extreme heat. For more information on cucumbers try reading this blog on "Can guinea pigs eat cucumber?"

Use a fan or air conditioner! For air flow and cool air, it helps lower their temperature. Fans must face away from the guinea pig!

Move the guinea pig cage to a cooler place! Make sure they’re away from the sun or are in a shady spot. If your guinea pig cage is in direct sunlight and you can't move them, we recommend a cage shade cover to keep them cool.

Keep ice packs close! Wrap ice packs in a cloth so your piggies can sit next to them.

Give them cold water! Try putting a couple of ice cubes in their water. 

Brush your piggies’ fur! Remove excess fur – there’s no need for a winter coat in hot weather. This is especially important If you own a long haired guinea pig. Regularly trimming its hair and making sure it has access to water is essential to prevent your guinea pig overheating.

To groom your guinea pigs, we recommend GuineaDad Grooming CuddleComb. It’s effective for getting rid of extra fur and a useful tool for bonding time.

 

Heatstroke Symptoms

When in a situation of extreme heat, recognising the common signs of heatstroke is important for keeping your pet safe. Panting, slobbering, fatigue, reluctance to move, and convulsions are all guinea pig heat stroke symptoms. If you see these signs, cool them down by wetting their fur, ears, and feet. Take them to a vet immediately!