Skinny Pig Care & Small Animal | Hairless Guinea Pig
Description
The Skinny Pig is a distinct, largely hairless breed of guinea pig (*Cavia porcellus*). Originating from a laboratory mutation crossed with furred guinea pigs, Skinny Pigs possess smooth, soft skin with only light peach fuzz on their muzzles, feet, and legs. Highly affectionate, vocal, and curious, they make engaging indoor pets for dedicated small animal enthusiasts.
Due to their lack of a protective fur coat, Skinny Pigs have a higher metabolic rate than traditional furred cavies to keep their bodies warm. This means they require a higher caloric intake, continuous access to high-quality hay, and an environment kept strictly between 20°C and 26°C. They also need gentle skin care to prevent dryness or irritation, soft bedding free of rough edges, and protection from direct sunlight and drafts.
Key Species Overview & Care Specifications:
- Origin & Distinct Features: Hairless breed with smooth, sensitive skin and soft fuzz restricted to the snout and feet.
- Lifespan & Size: Grows to an average size of 20cm to 25cm and lives 5 to 7 years with proper nutritional and environmental care.
- Higher Caloric & Metabolic Needs: Burns calories faster to maintain body temperature; requires continuous access to Timothy hay, daily Vitamin C-fortified pellets, fresh leafy greens, and fresh water.
- Temperature & Draft Sensitivity: Must be kept indoors in a warm room (20°C to 26°C); extremely vulnerable to cold drafts, sudden temp drops, and sun exposure (sunburn).
- Skin Care & Soft Bedding: Requires clean, soft fleece bedding or paper substrate to protect delicate skin; avoid wood shavings or coarse straw that can cause scratches.
- Social Companion Animal: Highly social herd animals; must be kept in pairs or compatible groups (preferably same-sex or neutered) to avoid stress and loneliness.
Provide your hairless small pets with optimal comfort and specialized nutrition. Explore high-calorie hay, Vitamin C supplements, fleece bedding, and secure indoor cages from Malta's premier online pet care supplier, and enjoy fast, reliable doorstep delivery across Malta and Gozo.
Delivery & returns
Free delivery across Malta on orders over €35. Orders are prepared at our shop in Ħ'Attard. See our shipping and refund policies for timings and conditions.