Do Guinea Pigs Hibernate?

Several species have acquired the ability to hibernate as a means of energy saving to deal with harsh weather, a lack of resources, and perhaps other surviving difficulties. In a state of slumber known as hibernation, species have drastically lower metabolic rates, heart rates, and body temperatures. So, do guinea pigs hibernate? If you have never had a guinea pig before, you’ll like to know if they go into hibernation.

It gets recognized that several rodents stay in this condition of immobility for extended periods every year. However, will you have to worry about this or consider it? We choose to carry out some research to help you. This guide will discuss the guinea pigs’ hibernation state and measures you need to follow during the wintertime.

Quick Summary: Although they do not hibernate, they reduce their movement and metabolism to keep warmer in the winter. They can preserve energy and maintain their body heat by lowering their heartbeat. They are vulnerable to hypothermia, though, if it becomes too chilly., it’s crucial to provide them with shelter and blankets to maintain them comfortable.

Read more to know the perfect winter temperature for your guinea pigs.

True hibernating animals would emerge from this stage slimmer but normally undamaged. This dormant state may last for a whole season or beyond. To withstand this extended idleness, some animals grow fat reserves. In contrast, others keep food reserves on hand when required. Evolution over time has resulted in the preservation of these creatures. And those that have not gained the ability to hibernate will not withstand the physiological adaptations that occur with hibernation. So let’s look at do guinea pigs hibernate.

The guinea pig does not experience winter naturally. Therefore when it is chilly, they require particular care. You could discover that some days in the fall season might be too cold for guinea pigs. Hypothermia has gotten to set in in guinea pigs in chilly weather. Your pet’s environment must always be comfortable to prevent any health issues. If your pet appears sluggish during the cold winter, bring them to the veterinarian immediately. The presence of lethargy indicates a more serious medical problem.

Temperature

The ideal climate for guinea pig is warm. Throughout the day, conditions between 18 and 23 °C are excellent. They can tolerate nighttime temperatures of more than 15 °C. If the atmosphere is dry, a guinea pig should be capable of surviving at temperatures as low as 15℃. If there is mist around them and the temperature falls to 50 °F or more down, they will probably get sick from the chill. Guinea pigs would remain less active and slumber for longer stretches when it’s chilly outside. Their body does this to conserve energy and stay warm.

Although they are much alive, whenever they reach this point, they may start to seem dead. Remember that lethargy can also indicate a potential health problem. Check for any associated signs and how they behave in any weather. Your pet may get hypothermic if the temperature falls to the degree that is uncomfortably low for them. If not treated quickly and in a timely, hypothermia could turn lethal.

Care for your Guinea Pig

Pets require a lot of hay and blankets to maintain a comfortable environment. Consider that if you want to wear a coat or warm sweater. Therefore, your guinea pig cannot survive at the current temperatures. When it’s cold outside, guinea pigs need additional attention and care. However, below are a few other measures to consider.

Relocate the Habitat

You can move your cavies’ residence and add insulation to their enclosure and habitat. You can ensure their living arrangements are suitable for the harsh climate and guarantee they stay warm and cozy during the winter. Apart from any breezes, ensure their housing is. Most of the time, it is wise to keep children from any openings or doorways.

How to Optimize Home Temperature?

The next step is to check that the room’s temperate is within their preferred levels of 65 to 75 degrees. Additionally, it’s essential to watch that the temperature doesn’t swing too much in the opposite direction; for guinea pigs, both too warmer and too-chilly conditions are undesirable. The temperature and dampness within your residence may get accurately measured with internal thermometers, which are available. Your guinea pigs will do well if you keep them in a barn or other outbuilding.

How to Monitor Guinea Pigs?

Also, with measures in place, you must be vigilant and watch out for symptoms of illness, bringing your guinea pig to the veterinarian immediately if required.

Cage Covering

To keep your guinea pigs at a moderate degree, you should offer enough insulation. You could employ a heavy covering, such as a blanket, to protect the enclosure. A tarpaulin or other impermeable protection, such as one, should be used to protect the blanket. Be sure to allow breathing space to prevent your guinea pigs from suffocating.

Increase Bedding

Adding more bedding than usual to the young guinea pig’s home is another technique to keep it warm throughout the wintertime. Your guinea pig would stay comfortable and dry in padding. The fabric is excellent for concealing, which is among their favorite activities.

Tip: They are creatures that are inherently fun and energetic. Therefore, they require a little more push to get occupied during winter.

Bottom Line

The inherent resistance towards the coldness that squirrels and other mice possess is not present in guinea pigs. Do guinea pigs hibernate; since they don’t hibernate, they are protected from harsh weather and can preserve food by falling asleep deeply. You need to start worrying if the temperature drops under 15 °C. Watch out for indicators of dullness and drowsiness in the mind. Hypothermia, which is potentially highly fatal, might strike your guinea pig. Finally, if necessary, visit a veterinarian. You do not desire the cold to take your cherished little piggie out of commission.

Here’s An Interesting Video to Watch,