How to Groom a Guinea Pig for a Show

As guinea pigs become more popular as pets, so has the practice of guinea pig shows. At shows, guinea pigs are judged on their cleanliness, condition and abilities. Clubs typically require that you register at least a week before the show date. The specific show regulations vary per show, so contact your local cavy club beforehand for information. Guinea pigs are proficient at grooming themselves and seldom need bathing, but a higher level of cleanliness is expected for shows.

Things You'll Need

  • Flea dip
  • Eucalyptus oil
  • Cotton ball
  • Scissor style nail clipper
  • Metal comb
  • Baby brush
  • Guinea pig shampoo
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Instructions

    • 1

      Clean your guinea pig̵7;s grease gland with Eucalyptus oil a week before the show. The grease gland is located on the buttocks where a tail would be. Put a small amount of eucalyptus oil on a cotton ball and gently rub until the grease loosens.

    • 2

      Shampoo your guinea pig a week before the show with a shampoo designed for guinea pigs. If you bathe your guinea pig the day before the show, their coat will be coarse and stripped of natural oils. After a few days the natural oils in the coat will return, giving the coat more sheen.

    • 3

      Dip your guinea pig in a flea dip after shampooing. Guinea pigs must be free of lice and lice eggs before they are able to participate in many shows. For extra protection, purchase a dip that does not need to be rinsed off and leave it on your guinea pig.

    • 4

      Clean your guinea pig̵7;s ears. Place a drop of Octiclens or mineral oil in each ear and let it soak for five minutes. Use a soft cloth to gently clean the outer ear and any excess mineral oil.

    • 5

      Trim your guinea pig̵7;s toenails with a scissor style clipper designed for small animals. When clipping, be sure to identify the ̶0;quick,̶1; which is pink tissue near the base of the nail. Be careful not to cut past the quick, as it will cause your guinea pig to bleed.

    • 6

      Brush your guinea pig̵7;s coat with a metal comb to remove the loose hairs and knots. If your guinea pig is long haired, trim his hair with rounded tip grooming scissors. Afterwards, brush their coat with a baby brush to add shine.