How to Bath Your Guinea Pig Safely

Guinea pigs make wonderful and funny pets. They don't cost a lot to keep and make a great child's pet. Sometimes you may have to bathe your guinea pig, such as when your vet advises you to or if your guinea pig is a long haired breed. Read on to learn how to give your guinea pig a bath.

1. 1
   Run about 5cm warm water (NOT HOT) into a sink or bath. Do not add bubble bath or anything else. Just warm water.
2. 2
   Place a small towel at the bottom of sink/tub for your pet to grip.
3. 3
   Put your hand in the water to make sure it's just the right temperature for your guinea pig. Also be sure that your guinea pig will be able to stand up in the bath or sink without its head going under water.
4. 4
   Pick up your guinea pig and place it in the bath or sink making sure it does not go under the water.
5. 5
   Add a squirt of small animal or guinea pig shampoo on to the back of your guinea pig and gently massage it into its coat, making sure the shampoo does not go in your guinea pigs nose, eyes or ears. If this happens rinse it out with cool water.
   • Also clean its feet, bum, and belly.
6. 6
   Now with warm water rinse all the shampoo off your guinea pig.
7. 7
   Take your guinea pig out of the sink or bath and place it on a towel to dry it.
8. 8
   After this it may be a good idea to keep your guinea pig indoors for the rest of the day and night (if it live outdoors) as they may catch a cold or get a chill.
9. 9
   Place your guinea pig into its cage dry and warm.

tips!

• Giving a few treats to your guinea pig after the bath will comfort it from what for some guinea pigs is a stressful experience.
• It is good to give your guinea pig a bath around every four months to maintain fur and smell.

warning!!

• If shampoo goes into your guinea pigs eyes wash it out immediately as it might cause blindness or irritation to the eyes, ears and nose.
• Some guinea pigs do not enjoy being washed and squirm. Take extra caution that it does not get hurt.