Are Guinea Pigs Nocturnal?

Many animals are nocturnal, or active at night. Raccoons, owls, bats, and foxes are just a few examples of nocturnal wild animals. Many types of pets are also nocturnal. Domesticated cats run, play, and explore at night. Pet mice and hamsters actively dig in their shavings and run on their exercise wheels at night. Yet, what about guinea pigs? Are guinea pigs nocturnal?

Are Guinea Pigs Nocturnal?

The answer is both yes and no. Guinea pigs are neither strictly nocturnal nor diurnal; instead, their behavior includes periods of activity during both day and night. They sleep for short periods at night as well as during the day. This is typical of many small mammals. Consider this: if a small wild mammal were to sleep deeply for long periods, it would be more vulnerable to predators. By sleeping in short intervals throughout the day and night, they can rest while minimizing risk.

Even as pets, guinea pigs retain many of the habits of their wild ancestors. So, the owner of a guinea pig shouldn’t be surprised if this pet is up at night digging, eating, and playing with the toys in its cage.

Where Do Guinea Pigs Sleep?

Guinea pigs like plenty of tunnels, hides, and shelters in their enclosure. They will sleep in any area where they feel safe and secure. A small wood or cardboard box is something a guinea pig can chew on, as well as retreat to when it’s time to nap. This is an inexpensive option, and a pet owner can replace it when the guinea pig has chewed it to bits.

Fabric pouches made of fleece are available at most pet stores. These pouches are soft, colorful, and large enough to accommodate a sleeping guinea pig. One of the best things about a sleeping pouch is that it can be washed when necessary.

Some pet stores have small tunnels or huts made out of twigs or straw. A guinea pig can crawl into this type of structure to sleep. Additionally, because these structures are made from non-toxic materials, guinea pigs can safely chew on them. Of course, a guinea pig may simply dig a shallow hole in its bedding to settle down and sleep. Every guinea pig has its own sleeping preferences.

How Do You Know When a Guinea Pig Is Sleepy?

Guinea pigs are very expressive animals. They squeal, whistle, chatter, purr, and chirp for a variety of reasons. Sometimes when a guinea pig is sleepy, it makes a low chirping sound. A sleepy guinea pig may turn around and around in one corner of its cage to create a comfortable place to rest. It may even kick or move the shavings to make its bed just right.

When a guinea pig yawns, it shows off its long teeth. Sometimes yawning is just a way to stretch the muscles in its jaw. Other times, yawning is an indication of tiredness in guinea pigs, just as it is in humans.

How Long Do Guinea Pigs Sleep?

Guinea pigs are most active early in the morning and early in the evening. They take a number of quick naps throughout the day, typically for around 10-30 minutes at a time. Like many small animals, a guinea pig goes through a cycle of being asleep and awake. Specifically, this animal may take six or seven naps over 24 hours.

An owner who keeps track of when their guinea pig sleeps will be able to tell whether their pet is getting enough rest to stay healthy. However, most experts recommend guinea pigs get between 4-6 hours of sleep per day. Someone who keeps two guinea pigs in a cage is likely to see them sleeping on the same schedule. Two or more guinea pigs are probably going to cuddle together to sleep.

How Can You Determine If a Guinea Pig Is Getting Enough Sleep?

Sleep is just as important to guinea pigs as it is to us humans. Getting enough sleep contributes to a guinea pig’s health. But, how do you know if a guinea pig is getting enough sleep? A good appetite is one way to tell if a guinea pig is getting the rest it needs. Along with its regular food, a guinea pig can eat vegetables such as celery, carrots, and zucchini. When a guinea pig stops eating, it’s time to take it to the veterinarian for treatment.

Regular activity is another sign that a guinea pig is getting enough sleep. Healthy guinea pigs love to run around, jump, and play games. Of course, an older guinea pig is not going to be as active as a young one. A lethargic guinea pig should be checked out by a veterinarian. A guinea pig that is vocal and makes a lot of noises is likely well-rested. These animals have several vocalizations with various meanings behind them. They communicate with each other as well as with the people who take care of them. A very quiet guinea pig may not be getting enough rest.