No, guinea pigs do not like water. However, they can enjoy a swim in the water if they are supervised carefully. However, you should note that guinea pigs should only bathe when filthy.
Guinea Pigs in the Water
Guinea Pigs Like to Swim
Guinea pigs can enjoy a swim in the water if they’re supervised and have access to an appropriate pool. However, guinea pigs are not swimming pets and should not be treated as such.
Ensure the pool is large enough for your pet to move around quickly and deep enough to submerge their head and ears entirely underwater. If your guinea pig doesn’t like the water, don’t force them into it!
Guinea Pigs Should Not Sit in the Water
Guinea pigs should not be in the water for more than a few minutes. If you’re worried about your guinea pig getting wet outside their designated area, place a small plastic tray in their enclosure so they can still get damp but not soak through the flooring.
Additionally, guinea pigs need access to sunlight and fresh air to stay healthy – do not always leave them inside!
Bathing Your Guinea Pig
Guinea pigs are natural swimmers, so keeping them clean is essential. If you notice your guinea pig scratching at its skin excessively, it may need a bath. Guinea pigs need access to fresh water but don’t require bathing like dogs and cats.
Guinea pigs groom themselves regularly, so a bath is not necessary unless your pet has dirty fur or droppings on its coat. To clean your pet, use warm water and mild soap. Dry them off carefully before returning them to their home cage or pen.
Guinea Pigs Swim in the Wild
Guinea pigs can swim in the wild but may not be used to it. If you’re worried about your guinea pig’s safety, consult with an expert. Guinea pigs can drink water from pools and lakes, but it’s best to keep them near the surface and provide snacks as needed. Guinea pigs can get tired if they swim for too long, so it’s best to keep them close to the pool or lake and let them swim when hungry.
You Can Teach Your Guinea Pig to Swim
Guinea pigs are natural swimmers and can quickly learn to swim in the right environment and with training. Providing enrichment – like water toys and leaves – can help keep them entertained while they swim.
It’s also essential to ensure the water is clean and free of harmful chemicals and that the pool or bathing area is shallow enough for your guinea pig to enter and leave.
The Dangers of Swimming for Guinea Pigs
Swimming can be dangerous for guinea pigs, as they can get into water that is too deep and struggle to get out. If this happens, they can drown. Additionally, guinea pigs can become susceptible to bacteria if they drink water from polluted sources, so it’s important to filter tap water before giving it to them.
Pneumonia
Pneumonia is a respiratory infection that can quickly become deadly if not treated. It can be contracted from swimming in the water, breathing in dust or pollen, and even contact with an animal with the infection.
Guinea pigs are particularly vulnerable to pneumonia and can get it from any of these sources. If you notice your guinea pig being unwell, such as coughing or difficulty breathing, take him to the vet immediately!
Ear Infections
If your guinea pig is experiencing ear infections, it’s essential to seek veterinary attention as soon as possible. This will allow the vet to prescribe the most appropriate treatment and ensure that your guinea pig recovers healthfully.
Avoiding water altogether will help in this case – guinea pigs are particularly susceptible to ear infections due to their natural swimmer’s ear build-up so swimming can increase their risk of disease even further! In addition, disruptions in the natural balance of bacteria can lead to worse outcomes for a guinea pig with an infected ear.
Stress
Swimming can be fun for guinea pigs, but it is also stressful for them. This can cause waterlogging of the brain and lungs, which can lead to death. If your guinea pig swims more than usual or seems unwell, consult a vet about its health status.
Under normal circumstances, guinea pigs should only be given small amounts of water to drink at a time and never too much in a short time. This limits the amount of water taken up by their intestines, reducing the risk of waterlogging and drowning.
Exhaustion
Guinea pigs can quickly become exhausted when swimming and can be drowned if not supervised closely. Ensure your guinea pig has access to plenty of fresh water, and keep an eye on it while it swims. Swimming is a great way to cool off, but you should only do it in safe areas designated for guinea pigs.
Skin Issues
Guinea pigs are prone to a few skin issues, the most common of which is water on the skin. If your guinea pig gets wet and can’t get dry fast enough, make sure you towel them off and give them a drink immediately.
Guinea pigs can also get skin infections if they swim in water frequently, so ensure their pool has good drainage.
Eye Problems
Guinea pigs are also particularly susceptible to getting water on their eyes which can cause problems like conjunctivitis (a situation where the whites of an animal’s eyes turn red or pink) and blindness if left untreated.
