Some people might think that skinny pigs make bad pets, but they would be wrong. So, question is, do skinny pigs make good pets?
As skinny pigs have almost no fur, they require less grooming than other types of guinea pigs, making them a low-maintenance pet option. In addition, skinny pigs are typically very docile and can be easily handled. They also have a lifespan of 5-7 years, which is longer than most other types of guinea pigs. As a result, skinny pigs make excellent pets for those looking for a low-maintenance companion.
In this article, skinny pigs or hairless guinea pigs benefits, the causes of their being a good pet, how long they live, and how much they cost.
Table of Contents
Why are skinny pigs good pets?
Skinny pigs are a special breed of guinea pigs that is almost hairless. They are good pets and has become popular as a pet in recent years.
There are many benefits to owning a skinny pig. Let’s take a look at the reason why skinny pigs are good pets.
Social and friendly animals
Skinny pigs are very social animals and love to cuddle. They make great companions as well.
Skinny pigs enjoy the company of humans and other skinny pigs. In addition, they are usually friendly with regular guinea pigs.
Moreover, they rarely become aggressive.
If you have two or more skinny pigs, you can find them chattering with excitement with their companies.
They also popcorn or jump just like regular guinea pigs. This is the sign when you can know they are happy.
However, they might be scared of large animals or pets if you have one at your home. So, be aware of that.
Unique personality
Each skinny pig has a unique personality. You can get to know them better as time goes by and you will be amazed how much skinny pigs can show their personality.
Some skinny pigs are shy while some are outgoing. Some skinny pigs love to be cuddled while some skinny pigs prefer their own space. Moreover, some of them can be bold and dominant.
They are also very curious animals, and they love to explore their surroundings.
It is important to get to know your skinny pig’s personality so that you can provide the best care for them.
Not require a lot of grooming
Skinny pigs are born without any fur, and they typically only grow a small amount of hair on their feet and noses.
So, they need less grooming than hairy pets as they are almost hairless.
This is one of the reasons why skinny pigs are good pets. If you are busy or do not have time to groom your pet, a skinny pig is a good choice.
In addition, skinny pigs are less likely to suffer from allergies as they do not have fur.
Less allergic to human
Skinny pigs make great pets for people who are allergic to animals with fur, or for people who simply prefer hairless animals. They are less likely to trigger allergies in humans.
No cage mess from shavings
It is not necessary to provide skinny pigs with shavings or hay as they do not have fur that needs to be kept clean and dry.
This means that there is much less cage mess to deal with.
Relatively low maintenance
As skinny pigs don’t require much grooming because of lack of fur, they don’t need much maintenance.
Skinny pigs are also very clean animals and they rarely need baths. They also don’t have an odor.
Moreover, their cage and bedding are easy to clean and maintain.
However, they need a little bit more maintenance than regular guinea pigs, compared to other pets it’s low maintenance.
In addition, you can take hairless guinea pigs easily without taking care of their skin.
Know how to take care of skinny guinea pigs.
Long life span
Skinny pigs have a lifespan of 5 to 7 years which is much longer than many pets. They make them a long-term pet option.
For people of all ages
As taking care of skinny pigs is not hard like many pets, they make great pets for people of all ages.
No need to worry about shedding
Because they don’t have any hair, you don’t have to worry about shedding.
Healthy pet
Skinny pigs are generally healthy animals. They are not prone to many of the health problems that other pets suffer from.
They may have dental problems and bladder stones, but you can prevent them.
However, skinny pigs can still suffer from health problems such as respiratory infections, colds, and heatstroke, if you don’t take care of them properly.
So, it is important to provide your skinny pig with a clean and comfortable environment.
In addition, you should take your skinny pig to the vet for regular checkups.
What are the drawbacks of skinny pigs?
Skinny pigs have very little hair, which means they are more susceptible to cold temperatures than other guinea pig breeds.
They also require special care to prevent skin irritations and infections.
Skinny pigs are also more expensive than other guinea pig breeds, costing around $100-$200 each.
skinny pigs are not ideal for first-time guinea pig owners because of their special care needs.
However, if you are willing to put an extra effort into caring for your skinny pig, you will be rewarded with a loyal and affectionate companion.
Do skinny pigs like to be held?
Being members of the rodent family, skinny pigs share a lot in common with their fuzzy cousins, the guinea pigs. Like guinea pigs, skinny pigs are gentle and social creatures that enjoy the company of their human companions.
As with any animal, it is important to approach a skinny pig slowly and let them get used to your scent before picking them up.
Once they are comfortable with you, they will likely enjoy being held and will even start to nuzzle against you.
However, some skinny pigs may not like to be picked up if you don’t know how to handle them or they aren’t bonded with you.
When it comes to being held, skinny pigs can enjoy the attention. They are relatively small animals, so they can be easily cradled in one arm. But, always learn how to handle them.
Are skinny pigs cuddly?
Skinny pigs are very affectionate animals and they love to cuddle. They will often seek out their human companions for attention and will enjoy being petted. When they build trust with you, they will love lap time with you.
Skinny pigs are also very playful, and they will often run and jump around when they are happy. However, you should know that, some skinny pigs like more cuddling than others.
How much do skinny pigs cost?
The cost of skinny pigs varies depending on their age, color, and where you purchase them. On average, a baby skinny pig costs between $100 and $200. You can find skinny pigs for sale at many pet stores, as well as online.
As you can see, skinny or hairless guinea pigs are more expensive than regular guinea pigs.
When purchasing a skinny pig, be sure to buy from a reputable breeder in order to ensure that your pet is healthy and well-cared for.
How long do skinny pigs live?
Skinny pigs typically live for 5-7 years, although some may live even longer. This is a relatively long lifespan for a small animal, and it means that skinny pigs make great pets for those who are looking for a long-term companion.
Things to consider before making skinny pig your pet
Before you get a skinny pig and hairless guinea pig as your pet, you should consider the following things:
Maintenance
Skinny pigs are very active, so you will need to provide them with a large cage and
They also need an unlimited supply of hay and water in their cage.
In addition, they need plenty of toys to keep them occupied.
They also require regular cleaning to keep their skin healthy.
Moreover, you have to keep in mind that, skinny pigs require more maintenance than traditional guinea pigs.
Cost
Skinny pigs can be expensive, so you will need to be prepared to spend a bit of money on their care.
If you compare it to regular guinea pigs, it will cost you a lot more.
Health issue
Skinny pigs are prone to health issues such as respiratory infections and skin problems because they lack hair.
Therefore, you will need to take them to the vet for regular check-ups and treatment.
Moreover, you need to take care of their body and health regularly.
Conclusion
Overall, skinny pigs or hairless guinea pigs are a special breed of guinea pigs that makes a great pet for people of all ages. If you are looking for a low-maintenance pet that is cuddly and fun, then a skinny pig might be right for you.
However, if you ask me, I will suggest you to buy a regular guinea pig because it’s better than skinny guinea pigs in many ways.
