Known for their short limbs, dainty ears, large heads, and long bodies, guinea pigs are some of the most loved rodents in the world.
Domesticated as early as 3,000 years ago in Peru, standard guinea pigs also became popular in Europe in the 1500s.
Though guinea pigs come from South America, they have spread all across the world, and there are now several breeds with varying characteristics such as hair length, color, and size.
Perhaps one of the most striking and interesting breeds is the Himalayan guinea pig.
Because of their coloration, with white fur and brown detail on their ears, nose, and feet, the Himalayan guinea pig is often referred to as the Siamese cat of guinea pigs, and this is also how they get their name.
Though they are not Siamese, or from the Himalayas, they are quite fascinating creatures, and there are many interesting things guinea pig parents should know about them.
Himalayan Guinea Pig Facts
Himalayan guinea pigs are born white.
When baby Himalayan guinea pigs are born, they have zero pigmentation on their hair. However, as they age, they start to develop the brown and blackish coloring along their feet, nose, and ears.
They are technically albino.
Since Himalayan guinea pigs have white hair and red eyes, they are considered albino creatures even though they have black and brown patches on their hair.
Albinism refers to having very little or no pigmentation on the skin and hair. While there may not be any completely white albino guinea pigs, the Himalayan guinea pig is the closest there is.
Because they are albino and sensitive to the sun, they will do well in areas with limited sun exposure.
Himalayan guinea pigs change color even when they’re older.
Himalayan guinea pigs are temperature sensitive. If a Himalayan guinea pig is exposed to less sunlight and colder temperatures, their colorations will likely be darker. However, if they are exposed to warmer temperatures with more sun, their spots will lighten or fade.
You might be thinking that this is a cool feature, but Himalayan guinea pigs can also change color if there is something wrong. If a Himalayan guinea pig is stressed or is not being fed the proper nutrients, their black and brown colors will begin to fade.
Himalayan guinea pigs are very social.
In the wild, guinea pigs live in herds. Himalayan guinea pigs can become lonely, stressed, and sad if they don’t have any cage mates.
It’s important to have at least 2 guinea pigs in a cage to ensure that they are properly socialized and happy. You also don’t need to worry about the breed of guinea pigs that you get as any breed can be paired with a Himalayan guinea pig.
Himalayan guinea pigs are very expressive.
While all guinea pigs squeak and make noise when they are happy, eating, or communicating, Himalayan guinea pigs seem to really enjoy using their voices.
If these piggies get upset, they will often click their teeth at you or at their cage mates. In addition, they will have different sounding squeaks for when they’re scared or annoyed.