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Silkie Guinea Pig
AdvancedCavia porcellus
Guinea pig with silky long fur flowing backward. Also called Sheltie. Gentle, friendly, and admired for beautiful coat.
Difficulty
Advanced
Temperature
18〜26℃
Lifespan
5-7 years
Size
20-30cm / 800-1200g
Humidity
40〜60%
Diet
Timothy hay, guinea pig pellets, vitamin C-rich vegetables
About
The Silkie guinea pig, also known as the Sheltie in the United Kingdom, is a long-haired breed developed in England in the 1970s. Adults measure 20–30 cm and weigh 800–1,200 g. Their coat is exceptionally smooth and silky in texture, growing backward from the face and never forward over the forehead—distinguishing them from the Peruvian, whose coat drapes over the face. Viewed from the front, the face is fully visible and unobstructed. Silkies are typically gentle and somewhat shy, but with regular, calm handling they become friendly and relatively easy to manage. Daily brushing is essential for the long coat, and the floor of the enclosure must be kept clean as the coat easily picks up debris and soiling. Occasional partial bathing (monthly) is beneficial. Diet requires unlimited timothy hay and daily vitamin C. Common health concerns include scurvy, dermatitis, and digestive issues from hair ingestion. Lifespan is 4–7 years.
Basic Info
Origin
United Kingdom
Lifespan
5-7 years
Size
20-30cm / 800-1200g
Temperature
18〜26℃
Humidity
40〜60%
Diet
Timothy hay, guinea pig pellets, vitamin C-rich vegetables
Care Guide
Grooming
Daily brushing. Monthly baths to keep clean
Care Specifications
Group
Sources: RWAF Guinea Pig companionship
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: br-choku editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Primary sources
Taxonomy & Authority
Accepted name: Cavia porcellus Linnaeus, 1758
Authority databases: GBIF
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Regulations & Conservation Status
Not CITES-listed
Sources: CITES Appendices
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Silkie Guinea Pig Listings
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