Here's a breakdown:
* Short-haired guinea pigs: You likely won't need to brush them at all, except perhaps to remove any loose hairs.
* Long-haired guinea pigs: Brushing once a week is generally sufficient to prevent mats and tangles.
* Guinea pigs with special needs: If your guinea pig has a health issue, like a skin condition or being overweight, you may need to brush them more frequently.
Important things to remember:
* Always use a soft brush designed for small animals. Avoid using human brushes, as they can be too harsh.
* Be gentle when brushing. Don't pull on the fur, as this can cause pain and discomfort.
* Watch for signs of discomfort. If your guinea pig seems stressed or uncomfortable, stop brushing and try again later.
Ultimately, the best way to determine how often to brush your guinea pig is to observe their coat. If it's clean and free of mats, you can probably get away with brushing less often. However, if you notice any mats or tangles, you'll need to brush them more frequently.