I just got finished reading on a site where they said that you should NEVER let your gp run in an exercise ball or wheel. We just bought out gp and I also bought her a big ball to run in like our hamsters do. From the people who have gp's what do you think? Do you let your gp's run around in the ball and are ok? Also, I was wondering if it is ok to give you gp a bath? I know your not supposed to give hamsters bathes, but what about the gp's. Oh yeah, and would it be ok to let them run around in my room unsupervised as long as I keep cords, ect out of reach for them. (thier cage is in my room also, so they could always go back (I plan on cage training them to where they go back to do thier busniess)
2007-03-01 18:31:32 · 8 answers · asked by Starbaby 1 in Pets ➔ Other - Pets
The balls are ok for hamsters, gerbils and ferrets. They aren't really good for Guinea Pigs as it is not big enough for them. Guinea Pigs are anywhere from 11 to 15 inches long and the balls are only 12 inches. It is a tight fit and bad for a Guinea Pigs back. Though these balls say ok for Guinea Pigs they are no where near the size needed for Guinea Pigs to fit in them comfortably and with out injury to their backs. So no the balls are not alright for Guinea Pigs.
It is fine to give a Guinea Pig a bath, just make sure the water is warm (like baby bath water), and that the water doesn't come any higher then their sides. Be careful not to get water in their ears or eyes, and when using shampoo (small animal or baby shampoo is the best) again watch out for the ears and eyes, so no washing the head. And make sure you dry them really well and Guinea Pigs get cold easily after a bath.
It would be fine to let them run around in your room unsupervised as long as the cords are up, they can't get under anything that you can't retrieve them from and that they have no way to escape. As long as they have a place to hid and have complete access to water, pellets and hay they will be alright. Just make sure to be careful when reentering your room, as they could be behind the door or you can put a baby gate up instead and won't have to worry about squashing them.
Good Luck to you.
2007-03-02 05:45:05 · answer #1 · answered by rainbowlillie3587 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Never use an exercise ball for your guinea pig. Their backs are not made the same way as rats and hamsters. Exercise balls can cause bad back and foot injuries. They are also uncomfortable and not fun for them. They get their exercise from running in their cage, and during floor time.
For a bath, use warm water and a small animal shampoo, such as 4Paws Bunny Bath. Take special care to hold them and make sure to keep their eyes and ears dry. After you finish dry them quickly. You can use a blow dryer on a low setting (both low speed and low heat, too hot can burn) to help dry him/her.
Also, it is never okay to let a guinea pig out unsupervised. You can let them run around your room but they must be supervised. Guinea pigs are quite clever and can get into things. You may be surprised. My guinea pigs have crawled into and out of places I didn't think they could, and love to hide in my couch cushions.
2007-03-02 07:29:19 · answer #2 · answered by Citrine Dream 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Balls sre ok as long as its the BIG ones. I put mine in one but he wasnt used to it so he just stood there. IT is ok to give a gp a bath. Well not really really washing them or anything but they love to play in the water. Maybe fill your bath tub about a inch or so with luke warm water. hell love it. I always let my guiea run loose. Just make sure nothihg is out that he can get into. I also blocked my bed and dressers so he couldnt crawl underneath. that way i knew where he was and he wasnt lost. Hope that helps
2007-03-01 20:14:33 · answer #3 · answered by frankiebeans20 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Well, you can, but they don't really like it.
It would be better to let it run around in your room, but like you say just block off any places they can get underneath and make sure all wires are out of reach.
Yes, you can give your guinea pig a bath. You can buy special shampoo for guinea pigs.
HTH : )
2007-03-01 21:42:57 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
for their safety keep them in the cage when you are not watching. if the ball is big enough so they're not turned into a C shape inside, it should be ok. wheels can get their little feet stuck in them. he shouldnt ever need a bath. use a dams rag to get anything off him if need be. there are sprays at the drugstore to help with cleanliness too.
2007-03-01 18:36:31 · answer #5 · answered by imnotachickenyoureaturkey 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I thought that was what exercise balls are for. Its safer for her to be in the ball, then she won't get lost or hurt in the house... you will be able to find her and pick her up whenever you want to.
I don't know about the bath, you'd probably have to research that. I never gave a bath to my guinea pig
2007-03-01 18:34:55 · answer #6 · answered by Sammy 5 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Do not use an exercise ball, because cavies have very vulnerable feet/legs.
2007-03-01 18:41:22 · answer #7 · answered by justmemimi 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
why would it not be ok to let them run in a ball??? I think it's ok.
2007-03-01 18:40:39 · answer #8 · answered by piggylover_850 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋