Why should I weigh my guinea pig every week?

Short answer: guinea pigs hide discomfort, so a weekly weigh-in is the simplest at-home way to keep watch.

1. Same time each week — use a kitchen scale on the same day and time, e.g. before morning feeding.

2. Keep a log — the trend matters more than a single number.

3. Typical range — most adults weigh 700–1200 g depending on breed and frame.

4. Warning threshold — a drop of about 5% in a week (e.g. 1000 g to under 950 g) or a steady decline needs a prompt exotic-pet vet visit.

5. Stay active — balanced hay, vegetables and nutritional support plus daily floor time.