The guinea pigs of Peruvian or Peruvian indies are one of the many types of guinea pigs that exist because there are piglets without hair, long hair, short or very long hair. In the latter category, you will find the so-called Peruvian cuy. These piglets have very long hairs, but did you know that their fur can grow to more than 40 centimeters long?
Sociable and curious, these adorable creatures surprised everyone who decided to have them at home. Therefore, in this article by Animal Expert, we will talk about the beautiful Peruvian cuyes. Read!
- Unlike other guinea pig breeds that have emerged in various scientific research.
- That is.
- They were created by genetic engineering.
- Peruvian guinea pigs have emerged completely naturally.
- This breed owes its name to that it is endemic in some Latin American countries.
- Such as Peru.
- Bolivia or Argentina.
- In these countries.
- These animals were and unfortunately are still consumed and highly valued for the taste of their meat.
In other countries, guinea pigs or guinea pigs, another name they also receive, are not eaten as food, but are appreciated for their business, becoming popular as pets. This is the case of Peruvian cuyes who, because of the impressive appearance of their fur, have become one of the most popular breeds of cuyes as pets.
Peruvians are medium-sized guinea pigs, weighing between 700 grams and 1.2 kg and measuring between 23 and 27 centimeters. This breed of guinea pigs has a half-life expectancy ranging from 5 to 8 years.
These guinea pigs have a very special fur, not only because of the length of the hair, but also because there is a division at the top of the head, which descends to the back of the piglet. This hair can reach up to 50 cm in length, having two rosettes or swirls very characteristic. The fur can have different colors and prints, although it is usually monochromatic and bicolor, and it is rare to find a Peruvian tricolor.
They are also very sociable, albeit a little scary, so they can show fear of new situations or people, as well as when we make them interact with other animals. However, when they build trust, they are a true love, because they are very sweet and they like to be pampered and spend time together.
Guinea pigs do not tolerate loneliness, as they are gregarious animals, that is, they usually live in groups, so it is recommended not to have a single guinea pig, but to have at least one couple.
The long and dense fur of these guinea pigs can be, in addition to being very striking for their beauty, one of the aspects that will most require your attention and a lot of patience. Brushing should be done at least once a day.
You have to be very careful that the hair of your Peruvian cuy is always clean and untangled. It is recommended to cut your hair regularly to prevent it from growing so long that you go crazy trying to keep it free of us. Given the characteristics of their fur, Peruvian cuyes need to bathe frequently, always taking care to dry them well after bathing, as they often suffer from the presence of mites.
As for the diet of the Peruvian cuy, it does not vary from those of other pig breeds, including foods whose amount will be adjusted to the weight and age of your animal, and fruits and vegetables that provide you with all the vitamins. and the minerals your system needs. Guinean bunnies should always have access to hay and fresh water.
Peruvian cuyes are extremely sweet, so it is necessary to control their consumption of fruits, which are very caloric, since they tend to develop overweight and even obesity. This can be avoided with a diet adapted to your caloric needs and complemented by daily physical activity, taking them out of the cage several times a day and preparing games that motivate them to stay active.