RSPCA centres jam-packed after 37% rise in unwanted guinea pigs

The RSPCA is grappling with a substantial increase in the numbers of guinea pigs being surrendered or heartlessly abandoned.

Overbreeding, the escalating cost of living crisis, and inadequate knowledge about the needs of these small creatures have stretched the RSPCA’s resources to their limits.

Fresh data reveals a staggering 37% increase in the numbers of guinea pigs taken into RSPCA animal centres during the first eight months of this year, compared to the same period in 2022. A total of 237 guinea pigs have been received up to August, almost equalling the intake for the entirety of last year.

This alarming trend is not isolated, mirroring a similar increase in the numbers of rabbits, rats (193%), and mice (191%).

As the RSPCA confronts this growing crisis, the organisation is wholeheartedly backing Guinea Pig Awareness Week (GPAW), running from September 25 to 29.

This initiative seeks to educate the public about the welfare and complex needs of these often misunderstood animals.

This year’s GPAW theme, ‘Rescue and Rehome’, highlights the urgent need for permanent homes for the thousands of guinea pigs currently under the care of animal centres nationwide.

The message is clear: while guinea pigs are sociable and endearing, they have distinct needs and are neither easy nor cheap to care for effectively.

In a recent operation, the RSPCA Sussex North & Brighton Branch took in 45 guinea pigs from a single property in Bognor Regis. The animals, along with 38 rabbits, were being kept in overcrowded conditions by an owner who became overwhelmed after beginning with only a handful of pets.

The RSPCA continues to work diligently, offering crucial advice and educational resources to help prevent overbreeding and ensure guinea pigs are kept in suitable environments. Support for GPAW from other organisations, including Woodgreen Pets Charity, Blue Cross, and Raystede Centre for Animal Welfare, amplifies the call to action.

There is a wealth of information and advice on the RSPCA website to guide existing owners and anyone who may be considering adding guinea pigs to their family.

Potential and current guinea pig owners are urged to educate themselves thoroughly about the responsibilities of pet ownership:

• Typically guinea pigs can live for five to six years and some may live longer

• Guinea pigs are active up to 20 hours per day, only sleeping for short periods

• They are highly social creatures – in the wild they live in family groups of five to 10

• They get lonely and shouldn’t be kept alone – they’re happiest in pairs or small groups

• Guinea pigs need a high fibre diet supplemented with vitamin C