One of the biggest surprises for new guinea pig owners is learning that not every veterinarian regularly treats guinea pigs. Because guinea pigs are considered exotic companion mammals, they have unique nutritional needs, dental anatomy, and medical conditions that differ quite a bit from dogs and cats. That’s why it’s worth taking a little extra time to find a veterinarian who has experience caring for them.

For many guinea pig lovers, the moment they start sneezing around their piggies can be stressful. Some people assume they are allergic to their guinea pig and worry they may have to give them up.