Supporting bowel regularity

1. Observe daily — a healthy guinea pig passes well over a hundred plump, dark-brown oval droppings a day; smaller or fewer droppings usually point to low fibre or water intake.

2. Fibre first — hay should make up over 80% of daily intake; pellets are only a supplement.

3. Fresh water — refill daily and check the bottle flows freely.

4. Vegetables in moderation — a small daily portion of fresh greens; avoid large amounts of sugary fruit.

5. Probiotics and fibre — one sachet a day of high-fibre grass powder (Bacillus coagulans, Lactobacillus strains, bromelain and papain) supports natural digestion and promotes bowel regularity.

6. If there is no eating or no droppings for over 12 hours, visit an exotic-pet clinic immediately.