Plus-Hex CLINICAL offered . The two most common ways to provide water are sipper bottles and bowls . Bottles are considered more convenient and clean as they are unlikely to be contaminated with excrement , but they are prone to being blocked by debris in the spout . The open design of bowls makes larger volumes of water accessible , but bowls can be easily tipped over and contaminated [ 19 ] .
Several studies have set out to explore the drinking preferences of guinea pigs , by assessing their water intake over time . One study suggested no significant difference between the use of bowls and bottles ; however , each animal showed an individual preference [ 21 ] . Another study supports the use of bottles for guinea pigs fed diets high in dry matter to encourage water intake as a prophylactic against urolithiasis [ 19 ] .
In welfare consultations , it would be reasonable to advise owners to provide both bottles and bowls , to assess individual preference and to ensure several water supplies are present in an enclosure , with ideally one per animal as a minimum . Overall , it is most important that water is freely available and that the supply is clean and free from contamination , and the sipper bottle is positioned at a suitable height .
A key part of a guinea pig welfare consultation is an evaluation of the guinea pig ' s diet . Figure 2 [ 22 ] provides an example of a feeding pyramid , which could serve as useful visual aid for owners when highlighting the importance of fibre in their guinea pig ' s diet . A recent survey by Burgess [ 2 ] found that only 76 % of owners
understand that hay is an important part of a guinea pig ' s daily diet , with only 49 % offering hay every day . This indicates that there are knowledge gaps among guinea pig owners , with nearly a quarter of survey respondents being unaware of guinea pigs ' reliance on dietary fibre .
The data highlight the need for diet and nutrition to be a focus for owner compliance and understanding , especially given the associated medical conditions . It is important to note that any changes to a guinea pig ' s diet should take place gradually to avoid GI disruption and stress [ 20 ] .
Questions to support an evaluation of a guinea pig ' s nutrition during an owner consultation
• Is the guinea pig receiving unlimited access to good-quality hay ?
• Is the guinea pig being provided with small quantities of specialised guinea pig pellets ?
• Is the guinea pig being offered moderate amounts of safe , nutritious fresh greens ?
• Is the guinea pig ' s water accessible and clean ?
• Do the owners understand the importance of providing fibre , vitamin C and water ?
Figure 2 . Feeding triangle . Adapted from Wellesley Animal Hospital [ 22 ] .
Volume 39 ( 5 ) • October 2024
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