BRUSHING

Daily brushing with a soft baby brush will help remove some of the loose hair. Daily brushing is very important for long haired cavies, as they can their fur may become tangled in their feet.

BATHING

Should I bath my Guinea Pig? Possibly the most asked quesion about Guinea pig care. And the answer is yes, but only when the need to be bathed. Now, you can't just go putting any random soap on a Guinea Pig because their skin is extreamly soft, which means they will need special shampoos. A shampoo formulated especially for small animals will help avoid drying their skin. Use a shallow bowl of warm water, rinse, and dry thoroughly to avoid chills before returning them to their home. Avoid getting water in their ears.

Shampoos:
Bunny Bath by Four Paws is a nice smelling shampoo which can be used on Guinea Pigs.
Hylyt Hypoallergenic Shampoo is a soap free product excellent for use on sensitive skin.

Note: If your pet is extremely itchy, is shedding more than normal, or has a lot of dandruff, a parasite or fungal infection are the most likely causes. None of the shampoos mentioned here are designed to treat these problems though Hylyt and Epi-Soothe may temporarily relieve some of the pain. Read mange mites and fungus to find out how important it is to promptly treat these conditions.

Now you know all about what shampoo to use on a Guinea Pig, here is a step by step guide on "How to bath your Guinea Pig."

1. Clean a sink or large bowl and fill it up about three inch deep with warm water. Depending on the size of the Guinea Pig.

2. Slowly wet your Guinea Pig. So it gets use to the water.

3. Then slowly lower your Guinea Pig into the bucket or tub or water. Making sure no water gets in their ears or nose.

4. Take the Guinea Pig and place it on the ground Apply soap to the body and rub it smoothly in making sure to get any tangled fur or dirt out of the fur.

5. Put the Guinea Pig back into the water. With a cup or using your hand pour water over the Guinea Pigs body and remove all the soap, once again making sure none gets in the ears, eyes or nose.

5. Take you Guinea Pig out of the water and wrap it in a towel. Make sure your Guinea Pig is FULLY dry before placing it back into their cage to prevent chills.