Origin of the teddy guinea pig
Teddy guinea pigs are one of the guinea pig breeds of latest appearance Their origin is due, as in other breeds such as the skinny guinea pig, to a genetic mutation. This, although it may sound strange, is nothing more than the natural evolution of the species. This is how the vast majority of races arise.
These mutations can be merely aesthetic or affect the functioning of an organism. In the case of the teddy, the mutation only affects their fur, so we do not have to fear that our guinea pig will have physical or behavioral changes as a result of it.
The exact origin of the breed is not known, neither temporally nor geographically, although it is speculated that they arose within different investigations in clinical trial laboratories, where they were used as experimental subjects.
Characteristics of the teddy guinea pig
A teddy guinea pig will be small in size compared to other guinea pig breeds. They weigh between 700 and 1200 grams and measure from 23 to 27 centimeters in length, which It further contributes to its appearance being like a cuddly toy. In addition, they have short, lush hair that is really soft to the touch and makes you want to caress them non-stop.
This hair is what determines the teddy subtype, as there is a variety with soft hair and another with rough hair. The latter are typical of guinea pig shows and contests. As for the colors, in both varieties an immensity of them is accepted, including white, black, satin, gray, brown or beige. Unlike other guinea pigs, Teddys do not have rosettes on their fur, unlike Abyssinian guinea pigs.
The head of these guinea pigs is surrounded by a fringe of hair that looks like a fringe, presenting a Roman nose, so called because it is wide and curved. Their life expectancy ranges from 5 to 10 years.
Teddy Guinea Pig Character
Teddy guinea pigs are particularly curious and really playful These guinea pigs really enjoy the toys we provide them, especially if we change and introducing new hobbies and objects into his cage. You can buy the toys or try to make them yourself, so you will also feel the satisfaction of providing new entertainment for your guinea pig.
This breed is also characterized by being one of those that establishes stronger ties with its human family, having a very special relationship with their caregivers. They are sociable and like other guinea pigs, gregarious animals that prefer to live accompanied by their peers, people or even other animals.
Teddy guinea pig care
Guinea pigs are herbivorous animals, so their diet must be based on the intake of plant-based foods Your diet should be made up mainly of fresh vegetables, especially those with green leaves, as they tend to suffer from calcium deficiency, something that these leaves contain. They are also provided with special feed for guinea pigs and fresh hay. In the same way, we must ensure that our guinea pig has access at all times to clean and fresh water that keeps it properly hydrated.
Because they have a short coat, its maintenance is quite simple and not at all laborious, it will be enough to perform a weekly brushing of the teddy hair so that it is kept in optimal conditions. As for baths, it is recommended to avoid them unless strictly necessary. If we believe it appropriate, we should not exceed 2-3 baths annually If some dirt has accumulated in our guinea pig's hair, we can remove it with a cloth wet.
He alth of the teddy guinea pig
The teddy guinea pigs do not present serious anomalies typical of the breed. However, they seem to have a certain tendency to suffer from hearing-related problems That is why they need to have their ears checked regularly, proceeding to clean them with specific products to prevent the accumulation of earwax. In this way, we will be able to prevent conditions such as otitis, which are really annoying and painful for our pet.
It is important to know that guinea pigs are unable to produce calcium on their own. Therefore, it is necessary to provide them with a feed very rich in calcium or supplement with vitamin preparations for guinea pigs. This is essential to prevent our guinea pig from suffering oral diseases due to calcium deficits in its body.
Also due to a vitamin deficiency, specifically vitamin C, guinea pigs can suffer from scurvy, which happens relatively frequently. That is why it is recommended that a vitamin complex rich in calcium and vitamin C be provided.
