Although the Texel Guinea Pig, a relatively new cavy breed is enjoying rapid growth in popularity in recent times, it is still a popular choice. Their beautiful curly and long coat, docile nature, and calm demeanor are all reasons for their popularity. Because of their luxurious coats, they require more care than other Guinea breeds.
This is the place to go if you want to learn more about this rare cavy breed. This article will take a closer look at the long-haired Guinea Pig, and give a general overview of their lives. Let’s get started!
Quick facts about the Texel Guinea Pig
| Species Name: | Texel Guinea Pig |
| Family: | Cavia porcellus |
| Care Level | Intermediate |
| Temperament: | Gentle, affectionate, calm, friendly |
| Color Form: | Solid, patterned, mix |
| Lifespan: | 5-10 Years |
| Size: | 8-10 inches |
| Diet: | Guinea pig food, timothy Hay |
| Minimum Enclosure Size: | 30×60 inches |
| Attachment Set-up: | It’s quite simple |
| Compatibility: | Moderate |
Texel Guinea Pig Overview
The Texel Guinea Pig (or Texel) is a relatively new breed of Guinea Pig. It was developed in England in the 1980s. This breed was created from a cross between a British Rex and a Silkie Guinea Pig. American Cavy Breeders Association (ACBA), which officially recognized the curly-haired Texel variety in 1988, has seen a significant increase in popularity. They can be difficult to find.
Although the Texel looks similar to the Silky Guinea Pig’s, their curly, straight coat is unique. This coat, along with its gentle and soft nature makes the breed very popular. Texels, like other long-haired cavies, are calmer than shorter-haired ones, but they can still be mischievous!
These cavies are more gentle than their cousins but it is important to remember that all Guineas have distinct personalities. They become more prominent as they age.
What Does it Cost to Buy Texel Guinea Pigs?
Depending on where you live and the breeder, Texel Guineas may cost anywhere from $20 to $50 or even $75 depending on their availability. Due to their popularity, it can sometimes be hard to find them. This will also cause prices to rise. Avoid general pet shops and breeders who cannot offer a health guarantee. It can be difficult to assess the health of these animals.
The Typical Behavior and Temperament
Texel Guinea Pigs have a reputation for being the most docile of all cavy types. They are very easy to handle, even for small children. They should be socialized young and treated gently at all times. They are more docile than their shorter-haired cousins and have a calm personalities. This makes them easier to care for and interact with outside their cage. However, this is a generalization and different Texels might be more active than others. Many Texel owners will confirm that they can be quite mischievous and get into trouble if left alone.
Appearance
The curly, long hair that covers their entire bodies is what makes Texel Guineas so distinctive. The hair around the head and face is usually a little shorter but still retains its characteristic curls. You can find their coat in a variety of colors, including black, gold, brown, and even patterned.
They are approximately the same weight and size as other Guinea breeds. Males tend to be slightly bigger than females. Texels are slightly smaller and stockier than other Guineas, according to many Texel owners.
How to Care for Texel Guinea Pigs
Habitat
Texel Guinea Pigs need the same basic needs as other cavy breeds. They require a well-ventilated, clean environment to live in. In the wild, Guineas are social animals and will be happier living in groups of two to three. If you have more than one guinea, they will need a cage that is at least 30×60 inches in size.
Bedding
To avoid any soiled bedding becoming stuck in the curly and long hairs of your Texel, dry bedding is a must. Fleece cage liners or bedding made from paper are best, as wood chips can also get into their fur.
Accessory
You will need a water bottle and a food dish. There are also a few accessories that can keep your Texel physically and mentally stimulated such as a hide house, chew toys, and a hay rack. They love to play in tunnels, run through cardboard boxes and navigate obstacles. Your Guinea must still be outside its enclosure, even with all the accessories.
Are Texel Guinea Pigs compatible with other pets?
Texel Guineas are well-known for their calm temperament. They get along well with all Guinea breeds. They can live together in pairs, or even more, and are very social animals. Introduce new members slowly as males will try to take over in the presence. Even among identical-sex Guineas fighting is rare. However, it can happen from time to time, so make sure you take things slow.
Texel Guineas can be introduced properly, given plenty of food and toys, and enough space in their enclosure. They are docile and get along well with other Guineas.
What to feed your Texel Guinea Pig
Guineas can be found in the wild as omnivores, but they are also known to eat small insects from time to time. They are very easy to care for in captivity. Good-quality Guinea pellets, fresh timothy Hay, and other good-quality Guinea pellets are enough to provide all the nutrition they need.
Texel Guinea Pigs are not as nutritionally demanding as other breeds. Although they can be given fruits and vegetables from time to time, they are not able to digest sugar well so it is important to limit their intake. Like all Guinea breeds, ensure they have access to clean, fresh water.
How to Keep Your Texel Guinea Pig Happy
The best thing for Texel Guinea Pig health is to keep their long, straight, clean, and free from knots. To prevent them from developing skin and parasite problems, matting, and skin problems, they will need to be brushed every other day. If your Guinea is not getting enough exercise, knotted fur can lead to mobility problems, which can then cause weight issues.
A good habit is to give your Guinea a bath once per month with clean, fresh water. Their long hair can lead to infections and wax buildup in their ears.
Breeding
It is easy to breed Guinea Pigs. The same is true for Texel Guineas. But it is the timing of the births that is important. Female Guineas can become sexually mature as early as 1-2 months. They must be at least 10 months old in order to give birth naturally. Any older, she will need a C-section. A female can be pregnant for approximately 2 months, and usually has between 2-4 pups per litter. Guinea Pig pups are unique because they are born with teeth, and fur, and can move from the moment they are born. They will nurse from their mother initially, but they are known to start eating hay soon after birth.
Are Texel Guinea Pigs suitable for you?
Texel Guineas are similar to other Guinea species in that they require very little care. If you’re familiar with keeping cavies, Texels will not be a problem. Their curled, long coats are the main difference. They will need to be bathed and brushed regularly to keep them from becoming knotty. If you are able to brush their hair every other day and have little children, Texel Guinea Pigs make a great family pet.
Are Texel guinea pigs social?
Texel guinea pigs are often loving and kind companions, with a touch of a naughty side! They appreciate being the focus of attention and human connection, especially if they are trained from a young age.
Do Texel guinea pigs require bathing?
Preventing numerous skin diseases requires keeping this breed’s long coat clear of knots and mats. Not only do Texel guinea pigs stink if they aren’t washed on a regular basis, but their hair can get knotted and matted if it isn’t combed at least once a day.
Is it necessary for guinea pigs to be exposed to sunlight?
Light: A source of indirect sunlight is advised for your guinea pig to ensure that vitamin D, which is naturally created from sunshine, is available in their surroundings and that they have adequate light for natural daylight activities.
Do guinea pigs require constant attention?
Guinea pigs require daily time out of their cage. Daily engagement and attention are crucial for a guinea pig’s well-being, whether it is spent extending their legs and exploring new areas or snuggling in your lap. Guinea pigs must be groomed on a regular basis.
Do guinea pigs require diapers?
Drip Pads and Extra Potty It’s a good idea to have extra pee pads for your cozy to keep things looking nice and tidy for your piggies.
Where should a guinea pig not be handled?
The feet and underbelly are normally avoided, and the back may also be avoided. Examine your guinea pig’s body language and vocalizations for cues about how he or she is feeling. Keep touching sessions short at first until you know how your guinea pigs react.
How frequently should you handle a guinea pig?
Because most guinea pigs like spending time with their owners, handling them is fun for everyone. Hand-feeding and petting your guinea pig become vital elements of their life after they learn to know you. This implies that how much you hold them is entirely up to you, and you can do it as frequently as you desire.
What happens if you constantly hold your guinea pig?
It is best to hold your pet for no more than 10-15 minutes at a time, as it will naturally need to go to the bathroom: If you keep your pet for too long, it will let you know if it wants to go home (it will grow restless, start whimpering, and nibble your clothes). It is usual for a guinea pig to defecate on you.
How can I tell whether my guinea pig likes to be petted?
It can also be used to attract attention at times. If your guinea pig is feeling ignored, you may hear chirrup noises as they seek the attention of its owner.
How uncommon is a texel guinea pig?
The Texel is a relatively young breed that originated in England in the 1980s. It’s still uncommon, but it’s been formally recognized since 1998. The tiniest guinea pigs include Texels, Americans, and Silkies.