The family has agreed that it's time to get a pet. However, it should be an animal that doesn't require too much work. It should bring joy, but not demand too much attention – and ideally, it should be something that even a primary school child can help look after. Does this sound like a familiar list of requirements? Then a small group of guinea pigs could be just right for you.
Guinea pigs need other guinea pigs. It is therefore particularly important that you get several of these little rodents, as they should be kept in pairs at least. Female guinea pigs are less complicated and can be kept in a group of several with one neutered male. Male guinea pigs, especially unneutered ones, may fight for dominance.
There are different breeds of guinea pigs. When choosing your new roommate, you should make sure that the animals are compatible in terms of breed and age.
Guinea pigs are diurnal animals. It is also important to note that they are not designed to be carried around and cuddled all the time. The animals quickly become frightened when they are held in your arms for long periods of time and then fall into a kind of stupor. Unfortunately, this behavior is often misinterpreted and perceived as "they are very quiet in my arms."
Another tip: People with very sensitive hearing should check in advance whether the squeaking sounds that these little animals like to make often are not too disturbing.
These little rodents love to move around. A sufficiently large enclosure and regular exercise are therefore a must. Adjust the size of the cage to the number of animals. For two guinea pigs, it should offer at least 120 by 80 centimeters of space—the larger, the better. The cage should be cleaned every two to three days. Ideally, the little ones should also have an outdoor enclosure that they can access independently because it is connected to the cage. In summer, this should be in the shade, as guinea pigs are very sensitive to heat.
Here is a short list to get you started with your guinea pigs:
Extensions and imaginative additions are always possible. Once you get to know your little gang better, you'll surely think of more things you can buy.
Place the cage and the outdoor enclosure carefully, i.e. not near a window or door where there could be draughts – and not in direct sunlight. The space directly next to the heating is also unsuitable. Also make sure that the animals are not affected by smoke or artificial fragrances. A television that is always on can also make guinea pigs nervous.
Special care should be taken when it comes to the animals' desire to nibble: guinea pigs are quick to find electrical cables when they are running around freely or have successfully escaped into the home. If they nibble on them, they put themselves in extreme danger!
The perfect place for an outdoor enclosure is a sheltered spot with some shade and a little sun. Once you have provided a safe and species-appropriate home, nothing stands in the way of a wonderful life with your lively little roommates.
It is natural for your horse to occasionally shake its head to ward off insects or because it is excited or tense. However, involuntary, persistent head tossing without any apparent cause is no longer natural. It is characteristic of headshaking syndrome. Unlike cribbing or weaving, headshaking syndrome is usually not a behavioral disorder, but a neurological condition that should be investigated by a veterinarian.
Since the urethra narrows significantly towards the tip of the penis in male cats, it can very easily become blocked, a condition known as urethral obstruction. Affected animals are suddenly unable to urinate, resulting in painful and life-threatening urinary retention in the bladder. This is always a medical emergency that requires immediate veterinary treatment. Indoor cats are primarily affected, while outdoor cats are much less likely to develop the condition.
It can be so much fun to spend hours grooming our horse. Cleaning the tail, oiling the hooves, and so on... Many four-legged friends also enjoy a day of beauty. Of course, there is a wide range of products you can try out on your horse. There are entire beauty ranges for animals, and you can actually spend a lot of money in equestrian shops. But there are cheaper options. The simplest items from the drugstore can be wonderfully repurposed as horse care products. The same goes for equipment for ground work, fear training, or just for playing with your horse.
The British Shorthair is one of the most popular cat breeds in Europe. With its sturdy build, thick coat, and calm nature, the British Shorthair has a special charm. It is considered well-balanced, uncomplicated, reserved, and self-confident: an ideal cat for people with a more relaxed lifestyle.
Whether human or pet, preventive check-ups are important. Prevention is the best medicine, because when detected early, diseases can often be cured quickly. So be attentive, take your dog to your veterinarian for preventive check-ups, and keep a close eye on your dog's health yourself.
Leech therapy has been known since ancient times. Leeches are now recognized as a medicinal remedy and are used in both human and veterinary medicine to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and thin the blood.
Dermatophilosis, not to be confused with dermatomycosis caused by fungi, is a bacterial skin disease in horses. It occurs mainly in the wet and cold season in horses that are kept in open stables or spend a lot of time in pastures, which is why it is also colloquially referred to as rain eczema.
If your cat has a runny nose and is breathing noisily, there may be a harmless cause. However, sometimes this can also be a sign of an illness that requires urgent treatment
The first few weeks with a puppy are exciting—not just for you, but also for your young dog. Soon, the moment will come when you discover the world outside your home together for the first time. There are a few things to keep in mind to ensure that your first walk is a pleasant and safe experience for both of you.
Arthroscopy, also known as joint endoscopy, involves examining a joint from the inside. It is a diagnostic and therapeutic treatment method used in orthopedics that does not require large incisions in the skin (i.e., it is minimally invasive).
In animals, assisted dying, the so-called euthanasia, is permitted under certain circumstances regulated by animal welfare laws. If suffering can no longer be alleviated, painless euthanasia can be a relief for your animal. But when is the right time, and how does euthanasia work?
There are many different arguments for different types of dog food. What is best for which dog and how feeding can be integrated into the daily routine of those caring for them varies according to individual needs. Below you will find some recommendations and ideas on this topic.
