
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Cavia porcellus
A coat-type group of guinea pigs whose thin, translucent hair shafts give a glassy sheen. ACBA recognizes satin varieties of five breeds, but the gene is linked to a bone disease known as satin syndrome, so breeding calls for caution.
The Satin guinea pig (Cavia porcellus) is defined not by body type but by a recessively inherited coat trait: the hair shafts are thinner and more translucent than normal, reflecting light to give a sheen described as glassy or oily. The American Cavy Breeders Association recognizes satin varieties of five breeds, American, Abyssinian, Peruvian, Silkie and Teddy, each with its own standard. Size is the same as guinea pigs generally, 20-25 cm and 700-1,200 g. The concern is health: animals carrying the satin gene develop osteodystrophy, known as satin syndrome, an incurable metabolic bone disease. From around 12-18 months they show a wobbly gait, difficulty eating and breeding problems, progressing to weakness and paralysis, and registries in New Zealand, Sweden and Finland refuse to register satin cavies or those with a satin parent. Prospective owners should understand this and it is prudent not to breed them. Guinea pigs cannot synthesize vitamin C and need a daily supply, and should be kept in pairs rather than alone.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Satin Guinea Pig lives 5-6 years.
Lifespan is 5-6 years; the ideal range is 17-20°C, with heatstroke risk above 26°C.
The Satin Guinea Pig grows to 20-25cm / 700-1,200g.
The ideal temperature for the Satin Guinea Pig is 17〜20℃.
Origin
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Accepted name: Cavia porcellus (Linnaeus, 1758)
Authority databases: GBIF
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Sources: CITES Appendices (not listed) / Ministry of the Environment Specified Alien Species List
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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Domestic variety (coat mutation of the South American guinea pig)
Lifespan
5-6 years
Size
20-25cm / 700-1,200g
Temperature
17〜20℃
Humidity
40〜60%
Timothy hay, vitamin C-fortified pellets, vegetables
A wide solid-floored cage bedded with hay; no wire floors. Size it for a pair
Weekly brushing for short-coated satins, daily for long-coated Peruvian and Silkie types; the sheen also reflects health
Gentle, vocal and tame; highly social, so never keep alone
Risk of satin syndrome (osteodystrophy): see a vet at the first sign of gait or eating problems and avoid breeding. Supply vitamin C daily
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The ideal temperature for Satin Guinea Pig is 17〜20℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Satin Guinea Pig is 5-6 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Satin Guinea Pig typically reaches 20-25cm / 700-1,200g as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Satin Guinea Pig feeds on: Timothy hay, vitamin C-fortified pellets, vegetables. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Satin Guinea Pig varies significantly depending on variety, age, sex, and the individual animal's condition. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: September 15, 2026