When choosing a guinea pig, pick one that looks healthy, well-fed, and alert. It may be nervous at first but should calm down and respond to gentle stroking. Check for:
Bright, clean eyes (no crusting or cloudiness)
Clear nose, ears, and anus (no discharge)
Formed stool (no diarrhea)
Clean, unstained teeth, with the top front teeth overlapping and touching the lower ones
Equal weight on all four feet
No sores, redness, or flaky skin on the feet
Also check the housing. It should be clean, have little odor, and not be overcrowded. Overcrowding raises stress and disease risk.
If buying from a breeder, shelter, or store, ask about a veterinary exam before you buy or whether the seller will take back an animal if the vet finds out it's sick or pregnant. Female guinea pigs can become pregnant as early as 2 months old, so be careful about purchasing a female housed with males when buying young animals. If possible, have a vet check a new guinea pig before you take it home or soon after.
If you are considering a guinea pig as a pet, ask where it came from, whether it has been vet-checked, and what it’s used to eating.
