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The Peruvian, formerly the Angora, is a breed of guinea pig that is relatively common as a pet. The Peruvian has a long smooth coat all over its body that may reach the floor, including a prominent "forelock" resulting from a portion of its coat on the head and the neck growing forward on the body. They have a middle parting and typically have rosettes on their head and thighs. Their long hair is an autosomal recessive characteristic that is inherited. When two different length hair types are crossed, the shorter hair length will be the dominant one shown.
Peruvians may come in a Satin variant, featuring a silkier and more lustrous coat.
The Peruvian is generally not recommended for first time guinea pig owners, due to the tediousness of grooming their long coat.
Appearance
Peruvian guinea pigs have long, silky hair that can grow up to 14 inches long and cover their entire body, including their head and rear. They also have a middle parting and rosettes on their head and thighs.
Size
Peruvian guinea pigs are medium-sized rodents that weigh between 1 and 3 pounds, with males tending to weigh more.
Personality
Peruvian guinea pigs are known for being playful, affectionate, and cuddly. They are also curious and nosey.
Grooming
Peruvian guinea pigs require a lot of grooming because their long coats are prone to matting.
Domestication
Andean Indians probably first domesticated Peruvian guinea pigs 3,000 to 6,000 years ago.
In Peruvian culture
In Peruvian culture, guinea pig, or cuy, is a symbol of prosperity and good luck. It is often served whole, either fried (chacktado), roasted (al horno), or grilled, with rice, potatoes, corn, and hot sauce on the side.
Nutritional value
Guinea pig meat is high in protein and low in fat, and is rich in essential vitamins and minerals.
See also
References
- Products, Cash Flow. The Complete Guinea Pig Care Guide. CashFlowProducts.com.
- Bachman, Zuzanna. "Peruvian Guinea Pig". zooplus Magazine. Retrieved 2024-01-24.
- Wagner, Joseph E., Manning, Patrick J. (1976). The Biology Of The Guinea Pig. Academic Press INC. ISBN 0-12-730050-3.
{{cite book}}: CS1 maint: multiple names: authors list (link) - ^ Pavia, Audrey. Guinea Pig: Your Happy Healthy Pet (2nd ed.).
- Goldstein 2010, p. 62.
Sources
- Goldstein, D.J. (2010). "The delicacy of raising and eating Guinea pig". Adventures in Eating: Anthropological Experiences in Dining from Around the World. pp. 59–77.