Guinea Pig Fun for Kids: Facts, Videos & Coloring Page Activities

Guinea pig

Guinea pigs are small, friendly animals with soft fur and big eyes. They love exploring, snacking, and snuggling! These gentle pets are easy to care for and full of fun personality—perfect for kids who want a lovable friend.

Watch a Guinea pig in Action!

See how curious and playful guinea pigs can be. They scamper, pop, and wheek when they’re excited!

What Is a Guinea pig?

Guinea pigs, also called cavies, are gentle pets that love company.

They have round bodies, soft fur, and small ears.
They are gentle, friendly, and rarely bite.
They live with other guinea pigs and like to chat.

Where Do Guinea pigs Live?

Though originally from South America, most guinea pigs now live with people as pets.

Wild cavies come from grassy areas of Argentina, Peru, and Bolivia.
Pet guinea pigs live indoors in small homes or cages with cozy bedding.

What Do Guinea pigs Eat?

Guinea pigs love healthy, crunchy food that helps their teeth and tummy.

Fresh hay (like timothy) every day for chewing and digestion.
Crunchy veggies like carrots and bell peppers.
Special guinea pig pellets with vitamins for strong bones.

How Big Is a Guinea pig?

Guinea pigs are small but sturdy!

Length: about 20–25 cm (8–10 in)—that’s as long as a school ruler.
Weight: around 0.7–1.2 kg (1½–2½ lb)—about as heavy as a small watermelon.

What Sound Do Guinea pigs Make?

Guinea pigs are chatty—they make lots of sounds when they’re happy, excited, or worried.

Wheek: a loud squeal when they’re excited, especially for food.
Purr: a soft rumble when content, or a quick version when unsure.
Teeth chattering: a warning to stay away.
Squeal or shriek: a sign of fear, pain, or surprise.
Chirping: a rare, bird-like sound when they’re stressed or curious.

Cool Guinea pig Facts

They can live 5–7 years or more with good care.
They’re herbivores—you’ll never see them chasing bugs!
They “popcorn”—little hops when they’re super happy!
They have four toes in front and three on each back foot.
They can’t make their own Vitamin C, so it must come from their food.
Baby guinea pigs are born with fur, open eyes, and can eat hay right away!
They communicate using sounds and body language with other guinea pigs and people.
They love to hide in small tunnels or cozy huts.

Printables and coloring fun

Time for some creative fun with your guinea pig friend!

Download Guinea pig Coloring Page (PDF)

Guinea pigs in the Eco-system

Guinea pigs help people and nature by sharing their world.

Wild cavies nibble grass and help spread seeds in South America.
Pet guinea pigs teach kids how to care for animals and be responsible friends.
They are not endangered, but habitat loss in the wild can hurt groups of wild cavies.