Alpaca
Alpaca Guinea Pig Breed Profile
Fell | Long, thick, curly |
Rosettes | Two on the hips |
Characteristics | Center parting, bangs |
Lifespan | 4-6 years |
Suitable for | Experienced owners |
Breed Characteristics
The Alpaca guinea pig could be described as a Peruvian with curls, as it has long curly fur. This guinea pig breed is quite rare and therefore very highly prized. Many guinea pig fans think that Alpacas are among the most beautiful guinea pigs. They can have many different fur colors. Alpaca guinea pigs aren’t very suitable for beginners as you need a lot of skill to care for their long fur properly.
Origin
The Alpaca comes from the Peruvian guinea pig and is often mistaken for a Texel. What differentiates the two is their bangs. The Alpaca has bangs that hang forwards. The Texel has no bangs and the short hair on its head falls backwards.
Fur Care
The Alpaca should be brushed with a soft brush once a day to remove any bedding, straw or hay. Small, soft plastic brushes are ideal. If their fur isn’t cared for properly, matts can form. Any such areas must be removed with scissors. You’ll have to be extra careful. And you need patience and calm to avoid injuring your little friend.
When their coat is long enough to drag on the floor, it’s time for a trim. Otherwise, the animal will drag dirt everywhere with them, which can spread disease. That’s why it’s especially important to make sure the floor is clean if you have Alpacas. And it’s better for the guinea pig if its coat is shorter in summer.
Keeping Them Outdoors
As a long-haired guinea pig, the Alpaca is not suitable for keeping outdoors. There is a great risk of its fur getting wet and dirty. “Uninvited guests” such as parasites and mites can settle in. In this case, their long coats are the ideal feeding grounds for bacteria that can cause serious illness.
Fun Facts
The Alpaca guinea pig was named after the alpaca camelid from the South American Andes because they also have dense, curly coats.