Guinea Pig

Status: Domestic

While some members of the guinea pig family (Cavia porcellus) are still found in the wild, they were originally domesticated as house pets by the Incas as early as 5000 BC. They were brought to Europe in the 1600’s, since then, breeders have bred certain traits, resulting in the 13 breeds of guinea pigs that the American Cavy Breeders Association recognizes today. Based on selective breeding, guinea pigs have a variety of coat colors, patterns, and textures. Guinea Pigs are herbivores.