When we think of guinea pigs, we often picture cute, fluffy little balls hopping around their enclosures and squeaking. But there’s a special variety of these beloved rodents that you might not immediately expect: the naked guinea pig, also known as the skinny guinea pig. Yes, you read that right—a hairless guinea pig! Although they’re less common than their furry cousins, they’re increasingly winning hearts around the world. But what makes these hairless creatures so special?
The appearance
Naked guinea pigs are of course immediately noticeable by their lack of fur. Instead of a soft fur, they have a thin, elastic skin that sometimes reminds a bit of that of a small hippopotamus. Despite their name, they are not completely bald. They often have a few tufts of hair on their snout, legs or back, which makes their appearance extra playful. This bald appearance is due to a genetic mutation, which prevents them from developing a full coat.
Naked guinea pigs show us how diverse and special the animal world is.
Meet..
In addition to their unique appearance, naked guinea pigs also have a great personality. They are often just as curious, playful and social as their furry cousins. Guinea pigs are naturally social animals, and this certainly applies to the Skinny guinea pigs. They enjoy company—both from other guinea pigs and from people. They make sweet noises, run around in circles with enthusiasm, and can bond with you just as well as any other guinea pig.
Their hairless skin does mean that they are a little more sensitive to temperature fluctuations. They need more warmth than their furry cousins, and can get cold quickly in a cool space. This means that you need to be extra careful about where you place their cage and make sure they stay nice and warm.
Care
Although the thought of a hairless guinea pig may suggest special care, in reality it is not that bad. Hairless guinea pigs mainly require the same basic care as other guinea pigs: a spacious cage, sufficient exercise, fresh hay and vegetables, and sufficient clean drinking water. However, there are a few extra things you should pay attention to. For example, due to the lack of a protective coat, hairless guinea pigs can suffer from skin diseases more quickly. A clean environment and good nutrition are therefore essential to keep their skin healthy.
In addition, they often need some extra calories because they use more energy to stay warm. They can therefore have a larger appetite than you are used to with other guinea pigs. Fortunately, they are not picky eaters and enjoy a wide variety of vegetables and guinea pig food.
Power supply
Hay en water is the basis of every guinea pig's diet, and that also applies to naked guinea pigs. It keeps their digestion going and ensures healthy teeth. In addition, a daily portion of fresh vegetables is essential. Think of peppers, cucumbers, carrots and spinach. These vegetables are rich in fiber and vitamin C, a substance that guinea pigs cannot produce themselves and must therefore obtain through their diet.
Because guinea pigs are sensitive to vitamin C-deficiency, you may want to consider adding supplements to their diet. This is especially important for naked guinea pigs, as they may have an increased need for this vitamin due to their higher metabolism.
In addition to hay and vegetables, naked guinea pigs also benefit from good guinea pig food
Although they may be an “acquired taste” in appearance, naked guinea pigs are undeniably fascinating. People who choose these special pets often do so because they love their unique appearance and appreciate their playful nature. There is something endearing about their nakedness; they are vulnerable, pure, and yet full of life. Plus, bonding with a Skinny guinea pig is something special—they are often affectionate and can really show their own personality.
