Buyer question
How long does a Skinny Pig guinea pig live?
Our Animal Library gives the Skinny Pig guinea pig a lifespan of 5–7 years.
Source: the Skinny Pig guinea pig page in the Everybarn Animal Library. Skinny Pig guinea pig in the Animal Library
The detail
The Skinny Pig is a hairless guinea pig from a recessive gene, with fur only on the muzzle and feet. It has no coat to insulate it, so an owner must keep it warm, feed it more, and protect its bare skin from cuts, dryness and sun.
- Origin
- Lab line, 1970s Canada
- Best fit
- Warm homes, attentive owners
- Care load
- 4 out of 5 (Warmth, skin checks)
What to weigh
Without fur it chills easily, eats more to stay warm, and scrapes and dries its skin. It needs a warm room, soft bedding, and a companion to huddle with.