Originating from the Andes of South America, the American Guinea Pig is considered the oldest, most popular Guinea Pig (or Cavy) breed. Today, the American Guinea Pig is commonly kept as a pet although it was originally raised as livestock in its native country. Its scientific name is Cavia porcellus, with porcellus meaning “little pig” in Latin.
Considered one of the larger-sized rodents weighing up to three pounds (48 ounces), the American Guinea Pig is physically characterized by its stout body, short, flat coat appearing in a variety of colors, rounded nose, and the absence of a tail.
Guinea Pigs have a height of 3.3”-4.1” (8.5-10.5 cm), body length between 7.9”-9.8” (20-25 cm), and an overall weight in the range of 1.5-2.6 lb (.7-1.2 kg). Guinea Pigs have a typical lifespan of 2-4 years in the wild and 5-7 years when raised in captivity.
Originating from the Andes of South America, the American Guinea Pig is considered the oldest, most popular Guinea Pig (or Cavy) breed. Today, the American Guinea Pig is commonly kept as a pet although it was originally raised as livestock in its native country. Its scientific name is Cavia porcellus, with porcellus meaning “little pig” in Latin.
Considered one of the larger-sized rodents weighing up to three pounds (48 ounces), the American Guinea Pig is physically characterized by its stout body, short, flat coat appearing in a variety of colors, rounded nose, and the absence of a tail.
Guinea Pigs have a height of 3.3”-4.1” (8.5-10.5 cm), body length between 7.9”-9.8” (20-25 cm), and an overall weight in the range of 1.5-2.6 lb (.7-1.2 kg). Guinea Pigs have a typical lifespan of 2-4 years in the wild and 5-7 years when raised in captivity.
