The Abyssinian guinea pig, also known as Whose Abyssinian, shares part of its name with the Abyssinian cat. We are also talking about one of the most interesting and curious breeds of guinea pigs Along with the Peruvian guinea pigs, we have another breed of guinea pig with long hair, although not as much as her Peruvian partner.
You should also know that some fans of the breed call them "pinwheel" or "hair whirlpool", since their fur does not fall downwards or blunt, but rather each strand has a different orientation, giving these guinea pigs a disheveled and very tender image. In this article on our site we will explain everything you need to know about the Abyssinian guinea pig or the Abyssinian guinea pig. Keep reading!
Origin of the Abyssinian guinea pig
Abyssinian guinea pigs are native to the Andes and, like most guinea pig breeds, this breed originated in South America spontaneously, with no record of the exact date of appearance of the Abyssinian guinea pig breed. Due to its endearing appearance, the breed quickly became popular, spreading to many countries in a very short time, today the Abyssinian guinea pig is considered to be the breed of guinea pig most popular longhair in the world.
Physical Characteristics of the Abyssinian Guinea Pig
Abyssinian guinea pigs are a breed of normal to medium-sized guinea pigs, usually weighing between 700 grams and 1.2 kilograms The length of the body of these guinea pigs is between 23 and 27 centimeters Their life expectancy is usually between 5 and 8 years.
The fur of these guinea pigs is relatively long, although it may seem short if we compare it with a Peruvian guinea pig, while the fur of Peruvian guinea pigs can measure up to 50 cm long, the Abyssinian one does not reach much length. The difference is that Abyssinian guinea pigs have an average of between 6 and 8 rosettes or swirls, which makes the direction of the tufts of their fur really varied. This means that although his hair is not very long, its volume is really noticeable.
The coat of Abyssinian guinea pigs can come in a wide variety of colors, with patterns such as tabby, tortoiseshell, and roan, these being quite rare in most breeds of guinea pigs.
Abyssinian guinea pig character
These curious guinea pigs differ from the rest of their companions by their character especially active, which can make them somewhat mischievous or restless, because their high doses of energy, if not channeled well, can lead them to present behavioral problems. This tends to be more common in males, especially those that are not spayed
Abyssinian guinea pigs are among the most intelligent guinea pigs that exist, something that many who have adopted one of these guinea pigs have perceived, since many have been able to teach them tricks and skills without too much effort.
Abyssinian guinea pig care
To prevent our guinea pig from showing destructive behaviour, we must allow them to leave the cage frequently, being able to exercise and investigate, although it is recommended that they do so under supervision at all times, especially on the first occasions. In the same way we can prepare games and activities that stimulate their mind.
To keep its hair neat and shiny we have to brush it daily, concentrating on the rear parts, since that is where they tend to form more knots, for this it is recommended to use a special brush, with soft bristles, that respect the integrity of the hair fibers. In this breed bathing is totally discouraged, which must be restricted except in situations where it is strictly necessary.
Abyssinian guinea pigs, like all other guinea pigs, should be fed quality feed, supplemented with fresh fruit and vegetables, as well as a constant supply of clean water and hay.
Abyssinian guinea pig he alth
Being a long-haired breed, Abyssinian guinea pigs are sensitive to high temperatures, so when weather conditions include high temperatures, that is, very hot, becoming extreme even for us, we have to take a series of measures such as adjusting our friend's diet, giving her foods rich in water and making sure that they drink enough liquid to stay hydrated and avoid heat strokes.
In addition, guinea pigs, as happens with humans, are not capable of synthesizing vitamin C by themselves, so it may be necessary to supplement their diet with nutritional supplements based on vitamin C.
It is ideal that we visit a veterinarian every 6 or 12 months to offer adequate preventive medicine and promptly detect any problem of He alth. Likewise, we will follow the advice of the veterinarian and go to him to prescribe drugs and dewormers whenever necessary.
