Everyday foot pad care for guinea pigs

Short answer: a dry, soft, flat cage floor, a healthy body condition and regular nail trims are the keys to healthy feet.

1. Choose the right bedding — absorbent paper bedding, dust-extracted shavings or fleece liners; avoid wire or hard plastic floors.

2. Keep it dry — spot-clean wet areas daily and do a full clean weekly; damp bedding is the main source of foot strain.

3. Spread the weight — balanced diet and daily floor time to avoid long periods of sitting still.

4. Trim nails regularly — long nails change how weight lands on the foot; trim every 3–4 weeks.

5. Check weekly — foot pads should look smooth and evenly coloured; if you see redness, swelling, scabs or an unusual gait, see an exotic-pet vet promptly.