What Every Cavy Parent Should Know

Bringing a guinea pig into your home is exciting, heartwarming, and yes… a little pricey. Blueberry & Ginger are living proof that the love they bring is priceless—but it helps to know what to budget for before you commit. From setup to daily care, here’s a breakdown of the typical costs of having a guinea pig, along with product suggestions (many available in our Tiny Zoomies Store or via trusted affiliates).

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1️⃣ Initial Setup Costs

Your first expenses usually include:

• Cage / Habitat: A proper-sized cage is essential for your piggy’s health.
  • Recommended: Top Guinea Habitats (affiliate link)
  • Cost: $100–$150
• Bedding: Fleece liners or paper-based bedding.
  • Try: These Beddings (affiliate link)
  • Cost: $10–$20 per month
    • We personally recommend fleece liners since they’re rewashable and cuts on cost.
• Hideouts & Accessories: Guinea pigs need cozy spots to hide and play.
  • Recommended: Oxbow Hay House (affiliate link)
  • Cost: $15–$40

Estimated initial setup cost: $150–$250

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2️⃣ Ongoing Monthly Costs

• Hay & Pellets: Essential for digestion and nutrition.
  • Hay: Oxbow Timothy Hay – $15–$20/month
  • Pellets: Oxbow Essentials Adult Guinea Pig Food – $10–$15/month
• Fresh Vegetables & Treats: Leafy greens daily, plus occasional bell peppers, carrots, or healthy treats.
  • Shop our Tiny Zoomies Food & Treats for piggy-approved options.
  • Cost: $20–$30/month
• Bedding & Cleaning Supplies: Weekly cleaning requires bedding and cleaning solutions.
  • DIY Option: Try our Tiny Zoomies Homemade Cleaning Solution
  • Or purchase convenient kits: Absolutely Clean’s Cleaning Spray
  • Cost: $10–$15/month

Estimated monthly cost: $40–$60 per guinea pig

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3️⃣ Occasional / Optional Costs

• Veterinary Care: Annual check-ups, vaccinations, or emergency visits.
  • Cost: $50–$150/year
• Toys & Enrichment: Chew toys, tunnels, and hideouts.
  • Cost: $5–$20 per month
• Grooming Supplies: Brushes, nail clippers, or occasional shampoo.
  • Cost: $5–$10 per month

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💡 Budget-Friendly Tips

• Shop smart: Many essentials are available in our Tiny Zoomies Store, personally tested by Blueberry & Ginger.
• Buy in bulk: Hay and pellets last longer and save money.
• DIY enrichment: Cardboard tunnels or homemade chew toys provide fun at minimal cost.

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✅ Final Thoughts

Owning a guinea pig is a long-term commitment, but the love, laughter, and joy they bring make every penny worthwhile. With initial setup costs around $150–$250 and monthly expenses of roughly $40–$60 per piggy, you can plan ahead to give your furry family members the happiest, healthiest life possible.

Shop trusted, piggy-approved products in our Tiny Zoomies Store or check out our affiliate picks for easy online shopping.