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Planning to bring guinea pigs into your home? Understanding the full cost of ownership is essential to provide your pets with a happy, healthy life. This guide provides a UK-specific and experience-backed breakdown of all costs involved, based on real-life surveys and product research.
Guinea Pig Acquisition Costs
Buying or adopting guinea pigs comes with a range of upfront fees, depending on the source, whether neutering is included, and the need for bonded pairs. Here’s how it breaks down:
| Source | Cost Per Guinea Pig | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rescue | £15–£30 (neutered boars £20–£100) | Pair rate usually lower per pig, bonding fee £15–£30 possible; some pairs ready-bonded. |
| RSPCA (varies) | £15–£50+ | Fee depends on branch. |
| Blue Cross | £40 (single), £75 (pair) | Standard across branches. |
| Private Online | £15–£40 (single), £25–£40 (pair), £75–£120+ (groups/setups) | Costs can be higher for housing/accessory bundles or rarer breeds. |
| Pet Shop | £20–£50 | Rarely includes health check/neutering. |
- Neutered boars from rescues typically range from £20–£100, reflecting the additional operation fee.
- Bonded pairs are often discounted or charged a flat rate, with potential extra for bonding.
Guinea Pig Initial Setup Expenses
Quality, suitability, and long-term value matter most for your setup. These prices are based on actual UK products, from budget to higher-quality options
| Item | Cost £ | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | £50–£400 | Suitable indoor or outdoor enclosures |
| Hideouts (2) | £15–£60 | Essential for stress-free hiding |
| Food bowls (2) | £8–£20 | Separate bowls for pellets and vegetables |
| Water bottle | £2.50–£13 | Ensure easy access and hygiene |
| Bedding (washable) | £48–£200 | Two sets for 2 guinea pigs |
- Investing in quality housing upfront can save money on replacements later.
- Buy the largest, safest cage possible for long-term health.
- Accessories like hideouts, bowls, and bottles can last years with proper care.
- Washable bedding costs more initially but is reusable and eco-friendly.
Monthly and Routine Costs for Two Guinea Pigs
Realistic averages based on surveys of UK guinea pig owners and practical personal experience (for two guinea pigs):
| Expense | Monthly Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Food (hay, fresh veg, pellets) | £20+ | Includes a balanced diet for two guinea pigs |
| Bedding (disposable) | £10+ | If using disposable bedding instead of washable |
- Bulk-buying hay and foraging for safe fresh food saves money.
- Costs may rise if you buy organic veg or use only premium foods.
- Washable bedding can reduce long-term bedding expenses, but requires regular cleaning in a washing machine.
Additional and Occasional Guinea Pig Costs
| Item | Cost | Frequency/Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Cage Cleaner | £4–£8 | Occasional |
| Vet Visit | £25–£250+ | As needed; varies by treatment, location, and prescription. |
Tip: Plan for an emergency vet fund to cover unexpected health issues.
Summary of Guinea Pig Cost Ranges
| Cost Category | Price Range (GBP) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rescue / Purchase Fee | £15–£120+ | Discounts for bonded pairs; neutering may increase cost. Higher for groups, rare breeds or included accessories. |
| Initial Setup | £50–£400+ | Housing + hideouts + bowls + water bottle + bedding |
| Monthly Costs | £30+ | Food + bedding; excludes vet care |
| Occasional / Vet Costs | £4–£250+ | Cage cleaner, routine or emergency vet visits |
Lifetime Cost of Owning Guinea Pigs
Guinea pigs live for around 4–8 years. Lifetime costs will often far exceed initial purchase or adoption fees, making advance financial planning crucial.
- Initial setup: £123.50 – £693 (for two guinea pigs)
- Monthly care (mainly food/bedding for two pigs): £360+ a year (less if using washable bedding)
Guinea Pig Lifetime Cost Calculator
Top 5 Money-Saving Tips for Guinea Pig Care
- Use washable bedding to save over time.
Switch to bobble bath mats – these last for years, with savings starting in the first 6 months compared to disposable bedding. For example, a set of 8 bath mats (£48–£80) can replace wood shavings or paper bedding (£10–£20/month), saving £72+ in the first year, £120+ in subsequent years and reducing landfill waste. They are easy to clean—just spot check daily and machine-wash every few days. - Source hay in bulk or from local farm suppliers.
Hay is essential but expensive from pet shops (£5/kg or more) and often poorer quality. Buying a bale from a local farm for £10–£20 gives weeks of supply for a pair—saving you £80+ per year while providing healthier, fresher hay that encourages natural foraging instincts. Always store hay in a dry place to prevent spoilage. - Forage for safe wild food.
Supplement your guinea pigs’ diet by gathering wild, edible plants (like dandelion, grass, and plantain) during spring to autumn—March/April until September/October. Instead of spending £5+ weekly on supermarket veg, you can forage for free in safe, pesticide-free places. Learn which plants are safe from my forage guide before picking. - Upcycle or buy pre-loved cage accessories.
Save money and reduce waste by buying gently used tunnels, hides, bowls, and water bottles from other owners. Bundles online might cost £10–£20 for items worth £40+ new. Always clean and disinfect well before use for safety. Upcycling cardboard boxes and tubes as chew toys is free and fun for guinea pigs. - Do your own grooming at home.
Nail cutting, hair trimming, and bathing are simple with online tutorials and practice. A typical groomer charges £5–£12 per session—learning to handle basic grooming yourself can save over £100 a year for a pair. Use blunt-ended scissors, baby nail-clippers, and mild small pet-safe shampoo.
Guinea Pig Cost FAQs (UK)
Is it cheaper to adopt or buy guinea pigs in the UK?
Adoption is generally better value; rescues may include neutering, health checks, and bonded pairs, saving you on vet bills and reducing future risks.
What is the typical monthly cost for two guinea pigs?
From £30/month upwards, factoring in food, bedding, and basic health needs. Emergency and occasional costs can increase this, so always budget extra.
Do rare breeds cost more?
Yes—expect higher prices for special breeds or skinny pigs, both for purchase and occasional health/grooming care.
Can you keep costs lower?
Absolutely, by prioritising adoption, buying in bulk, foraging for fresh food, opting for washable bedding, and doing your own basic grooming. For more tips, see our guide on how to save money on guinea pigs.
Additional Resources for Guinea Pig Owners
- Guinea Pig Starter Kit: What You Really Need
- Complete Guide to Adoption vs Buying
- Health & Veterinary Care for Guinea Pigs
This guide is based on direct experience, survey data from real UK guinea pig owners, and up-to-date product research. Information has been cross-checked with welfare organisations including the RSPCA, Blue Cross, and PDSA.
