How to Make Bedding for Pregnant Cavies

A cavy is another name for a guinea pig. Guinea pigs are friendly, inquisitive pets. However, they do need a great deal of companionship. Holding your guinea pig often can help build a bond between you and your pet. If you choose to breed your guinea pig, make sure you have good homes for the babies. Become informed about how to successfully mate your sow and help her give birth.

Things You'll Need

  • Vinegar
  • Water
  • Wood chips
  • Recycled wood pulp bedding
  • Towels or fleece
  • Hay
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Instructions

    • 1

      Keep your cavy's house as clean as possible. You do not need to purchase special bedding for the birthing process. Just make sure that the environment is as clean as possible. Before the birth, transfer your cavy to a pet carrier (or have someone else hold her) so that you can remove all the soiled bedding. Swab the cage down with a solution of 50/50 white vinegar and water. Thoroughly rinse and dry it.

    • 2

      Spread an adequate amount (at least 1/2 inch) of wood chips in the cage, if that's your bedding of choice. Never use cedar wood chips. Cedar is toxic to guinea pigs. Use pine or aspen wood chips.

    • 3

      Use recycled wood pulp bedding if you prefer to be more environmentally friendly. However, remove wet bedding as soon as possible.

    • 4

      Use towels or fleece if you will be able to change the soiled bedding often. Some cavy owners prefer this soft bedding, particularly if they are allergic to wood chips.

    • 5

      Keep plenty of hay in your cavy's house. Cavies need to chew hay constantly. Plus, a large pile of hay can make a soft bed for her.

    • 6

      Do not use kitty litter for your cavy for any occasion. The dust and fragrances can be toxic to your pet, not to mention uncomfortable. You'll need to keep your pregnant cavy as comfortable as possible for the birthing process.