Rabbits and guinea pigs have strong pet-appeal, especially for children. But whilst each is small, cute and furry, their individual needs and behaviours are very different.

Thinking of keeping rabbits and guinea pigs together?

This is not recommended.

Rabbits are much bigger and stronger. This means that they can cause injury, even in play. Even if it looks like your rabbit is simply trying to communicate to make friends, your guinea pig is probably frightened and unhappy. More importantly it is essential that they have different species specific food as guinea pigs naturally require more Vitamin C and will get ill if they eat rabbit food rather than specific guinea pig food.

Live alone, or better with a friend?

Rabbits live happiest in neutered opposite sex pairs. Guinea pigs are different and prefer to live in groups; at the very least they should have one companion. This is much better for their overall health as they often form very strong bonds with their guinea pig partner. Unfortunately, however gentle and caring humans are, we cannot provide that same kind of bonding and comfort.

Indoor or outdoor living?

Rabbits and guinea pigs make great pets. Although most would naturally choose to live away from humans (because they sense us a predator) there is good news! With thoughtful planning, we can make their habitat comfortable, healthy and calm. Before taking on either a rabbit or guinea pig, consider carefully where they will live. A main factor is whether they will become ‘indoor’ or ‘outdoor’ pets.

Indoor advantages

Animals kept indoors are often noticed and monitored more closely, so any signs of ill health will be picked up more quickly. Because they are visible, their needs are less likely to be ‘forgotten’ when family life is busy, and their temperature can be better controlled.

Outdoor pluses

Animals kept outdoors have better ventilation, which in the long run often means they are less likely to have respiratory issues. If their home is portable, this also gives them access to some enjoyable grass-nibbling opportunities! Living outside definitely means they receive natural vitamin D, which is vital for both rabbits and guinea pigs.

Hutch-size matters

The Rabbit Welfare association’s slogan of ‘a hutch is not enough’ is certainly key to remember here. Whether you have a large rabbit or a small guinea pig, both need ample space to thrive! Rabbits are naturally active and must be able to jump around their cage, stand up on their back legs and be provided with play and enrichment opportunities. Forage is very important, too. Unlike humans, rabbit and guinea pig’s teeth grow continually, so they need to constantly chew to keep teeth at a comfortable and healthy size. Chewing is actually calming for them, and because of the way they digest their food, do provide a constant supply of opportunities to chew hay or grass. If your rabbit or guinea pig stops chewing or eating, you should view it as an emergency.

What about feeding and nutrition?

Although their diet is similar, only feed your rabbit or guinea pig on species-specific food. That’s because guinea pigs naturally require more Vitamin C, and their food will be correctly fortified. However, with hay it’s a definite ‘hay and more hay!’. Rabbits and guinea pigs need hay to keep their guts moving and their teeth healthy condition, so keep it on-tap for them at all times. (Note that whilst some pellet foods are labelled as ‘complete’, they can be given alongside fresh greens, but never as a replacement for hay!)

When choosing what food to give your rabbit or guinea pig, the brown pellet type is preferable to the muesli mixture. That’s because, just like humans, they have preferred ‘pieces’ and like to selectively feed. If they pick out what they like best from the muesli-mix and reject the rest, they won’t consume all the nutrition they need.

Before you commit…

As well as deciding between a rabbit or guinea pig, why not research the different breeds within each species? This will help you choose which will suit your family best.

• Once you’ve chosen your new rabbit or guinea pig, remember to register with a vet and check their out of hours provisions in case of emergencies
• Rabbits should be vaccinated against myxomatosis and VHD 1&2
• Guinea pigs and rabbits are often seen as a child’s pet, but must be an adult’s responsibility
• For more useful information visit www.rabbitwelfare.co.uk (You’ll find some guinea pig articles on this website too!)

VetShack Hacks: helpful advice for animal lovers who care for their pets.