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 It
is necessary to bathe your guinea pig regularly in order to
maintain the condition of the coat and ensure that the pig
is clean and comfortable as like cats they are very clean
animals by nature and unhappy if dirty. How often they should
be bathed varies on the breed and it's length of coat, and
whether it lives outdoors or indoors etc. It is also important
that pet pigs being entered into shows are bathed during the
days before the show as they will be judged on cleanliness.
It is safest and best to bath the guinea pig in a flat bottomed
sink or kitchen bowel. Do not overfill as the pig will be
terrified of drowning. Place a towel at the bottom of the
sink so that he has a secure footing. Be prepared to get wet
yourself!
Shampoos can be purchased for guinea pigs and rabbits which
smell quite sweet - cat shampoos work just as well. Avoid
using dog shampoos as these are too strong.
Use warm (not hot) water and gently dampen your pig by pouring
small cupfuls of water over the body. Do not pour water directly
onto a guinea pigs head - you must not allow water to get
into the ears or nose. When working around the neck and head,
gently hold the flaps of the ears down to prevent soap and
water from getting in.
Dilute the shampoo and work it into the coat avoiding the
eyes and ears. Leave the face until later - this can be cleaned
with a damp cloth.
Some pigs may enjoy being bathed (they are in fact good swimmers!)
- but often they will struggle and try to jump out so be careful
to keep a hand on them at all times. Be aware that a soapy
guinea pig is a very slippery animal!
Rinse off all soap thoroughly with clean water.
Once finished quickly wrap the pig up snugly in a thick towel
to soak up excess water. Use a hair dryer on medium setting
to help cut the drying time and prevent the pig from getting
chilled. Hold the dryer several inches away and don't concentrate
the blow on one spot for more than a few seconds, constantly
moving the warm air over the body. Pay extra attention to
the underbelly and ensure this is nice and dry before you
finish.
Make sure the pig is completely dry before returning him
to his cage. Guinea pigs should not go outdoors for 24 hours
after bathing.
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