Guinea pigs are a type of rodent and are related to rats.
So yes a guinea pig is actually a type of rat although cuter.
Guinea Pigs are a part of the rodent family which includes rats, mice etc.
Guinea Pigs originated from South America where they still live in the wild today. In the wild Guinea Pigs tend to make their habitats in rocky areas, grasslands and forests.
The guinea pig or domestic guinea pig, also known as the cavy or domestic cavy, is a species of rodent belonging to the genus Cavia in the family Caviidae.
Guinea pigs make great pets. They live for several years, so you can enjoy them longer than most other rodents.
They have different personalities and are very vocal, making it easy to know their individual identities and get attached.
They are fun to play with and very entertaining.
Guinea pigs are social animals and enjoy human interaction, including petting, stroking and playing.
However, it's important you learn how to handle your guinea pig correctly to avoid any injuries.
It's not uncommon for guinea pigs to be skittish around their owners.
Guinea Pigs Are A Bit Messy: urinary accidents can happen with guinea pigs.
They “go” a lot.
Fecal pellets might drop every few minutes and peeing is also frequent.
This means that the cage bedding and litter box need spot cleanups several times a day.
Guinea pigs living indoors can see humans as important companions.
If your guinea pig has to be kept alone you must provide companionship by interacting with them daily.
Guinea pigs can develop abnormal behavior and may suffer if left without company and nothing to do for long periods.
Also guinea pigs shouldn't smell.
If they are giving off an unpleasant odor, it's usually a sign that the cage isn't clean, their diet is wrong, they're sick, or they're struggling to groom themselves.
Also, boars may smell more than sows because of an oily buildup around the grease gland.
Guinea Pigs live for 4 to 8 years.