https://www.chewy.com/education/small-pet/guinea-pig/guinea-pig-teeth
*Guinea pigs thrive on companionship and good care. The Guinea Pig Education Hub covers housing, daily routines, proper diets, and how to decode their unique squeaks and behavior. Start here for a guide to happy, healthy cavies.
Guinea pigs have 20 teeth that grow continuously throughout their lives, making dental health a critical part of their overall well being.
Their teeth include incisors, premolars, and molars, and since they lack canine teeth and have high crowned, open rooted teeth, regular wear through chewing is essential. Hay, especially timothy hay, should make up the bulk of their diet - about 85% - to naturally grind down their teeth and prevent issues like overgrowth and malocclusion.
Dental problems are among the most common health concerns in guinea pigs and can include sharp molar spurs, broken or loose teeth, plaque buildup, and infections.
If a guinea pig does not receive proper dental wear, they can develop serious, potentially life threatening complications such as abscesses or an inability to eat.
Early signs of dental issues may be subtle and include drooling, weight loss, reduced appetite, lethargy, or facial swelling, so careful observation is key.
To help maintain your guinea pig’s dental health, a proper diet rich in hay, along with chewing toys made from safe materials like coarse hay or untreated wood, is essential.
Avoiding trauma from rough handling or other pets is also important. Regular veterinary checkups - annually for younger guinea pigs and every six months for those over 3 years - are necessary to detect issues with their back teeth, which can not be seen at home.
At home, you can monitor the condition of their incisors by gently lifting their lips to ensure their front teeth are white, even, and uninjured.
If their teeth appear too long or misaligned, it is VERY important to seek veterinary care promptly.
Maintaining consistent dental care is not just a matter of comfort – it is vital to your guinea pig’s longevity and quality of life.
Chewy editorial team encourages pet parents to stay attentive to their guinea pig’s dental health, knowing that even small changes can make a big difference. With love, regular care, and the right support, you can help your piggy enjoy a happy, healthy life - one cheerful coo and gentle nibble at a time.
