Cavies (Guinea Pigs) Trivia Quiz

Answer: Cavia porcellus

The scientific name of the domestic guinea pig, commonly known as "cavia" or "guinea pig," is Cavia porcellus.

Cavia is a genus of rodents that includes several species of guinea pigs. The domestic guinea pig, which is the most well-known and widely kept as a pet, falls under the species Cavia porcellus.

Answer: The hair of the Peruvian is much longer

The sheltie breed has long hair that flows back over its body from its head, forming a sort of rosette at the back. The hair is long but does not drag on the ground like the Peruvian's coat. The Peruvian breed has extremely long hair that continues to grow throughout its life, and it can reach impressive lengths, even touching the ground as the guinea pig moves.

Answer: South America

Guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus) are native to the continent of South America. They are believed to have originated in the Andes region of South America, which includes present-day countries such as Peru, Bolivia, Ecuador, and parts of Colombia.

Guinea pigs were domesticated by the indigenous people of the Andes over 3,000 years ago. They were initially kept for food and used in various ritualistic and religious ceremonies by these ancient civilizations.

Answer: Agitated

When a cavy chatters its teeth, it is typically expressing a feeling of annoyance, agitation, or irritation. Guinea pigs use teeth chattering as a form of communication to convey their emotions or reactions to certain situations.

It's important to pay attention to the context in which the teeth chattering occurs to understand what the guinea pig might be feeling. If you notice your cavy chattering its teeth frequently or in situations of stress, it's essential to assess its environment and ensure it feels safe and comfortable.

Answer: Sitting up

When a sow (female guinea pig) gives birth, she typically positions herself in a way that allows her to have easy access to the birthing process and care for her newborn pups. Guinea pigs are naturally maternal animals, and the birthing process is usually instinctive for them.

During labor, the sow will usually give birth in a sitting position, her hindquarters slightly raised. This position allows her to have better access to her birth canal and makes the delivery process more manageable.

Answer: Hearing

Guinea pigs have excellent hearing. They use their sensitive ears to detect sounds in their environment and to communicate with each other through various vocalizations

Answer: To showcase and compete with guinea pigs based on breed standards

Guinea pig shows are events where guinea pig breeders and enthusiasts showcase their cavies and compete with them based on specific breed standards. Judges evaluate the guinea pigs and award points based on how closely they adhere to the ideal characteristics, size, shape, coat type, and color for each breed.

The primary purpose of these shows is to celebrate the beauty and uniqueness of different guinea pig breeds and to recognize breeders' efforts in maintaining and improving the standards of each breed.

Answer: Purring

Guinea pigs often make a soft purring or rumbling sound when they are happy and content. It's a sign of comfort and relaxation.

Answer: Providing chew toys

Guinea pigs' teeth continuously grow throughout their lives. To prevent overgrowth and dental problems, it's essential to provide them with chew toys and safe objects to gnaw on.

Answer: Hay

Hay is the most important part of a guinea pig's diet. It provides essential fiber, which is crucial for their digestive health. Along with hay, they should also be fed fresh vegetables, a limited amount of fruits, and commercial guinea pig pellets.