Do guinea pigs need baths? How often?

Short answer: rarely. They groom themselves, so spot-clean when dirty and give a full bath only every few months if needed.

1. Spot-clean first — wipe a soiled rear with a warm, damp cloth.

2. Full bath — small-animal shampoo, water around 37°C (99°F) no deeper than the feet, avoiding eyes, ears, nose and mouth.

3. Dry thoroughly — towel off, then a low, distant hair-dryer setting so they do not get chilled.

4. Dry shampoo — powders can be inhaled; a damp cloth is the better option.

5. Where odour comes from — usually overdue bedding changes or a boar's grease gland; clean the cage first, and see an exotic-pet vet for unusual smells or red, swollen skin.