How to Groom Rabbits and Guinea Pigs: A Guide to Happy, Healthy Pets

Tools You’ll Need

• A soft-bristle brush or grooming mitt
• A comb (for long-haired breeds)
• Small animal nail clippers
• Pet-safe wipes (optional, for spot cleaning)

You can also consider introducing foods into your pets’ diets that can hep improve their skin and coat. Did you know that all of the foods in our Selective range contain linseed? Linseed is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which help maintain a healthy skin and shiny coat by reducing dryness and supporting natural oil production. You can also help to further enhance your pets’ skin and coat by feeding our Selective Skin & Coat Care supplements.

How to Groom Your Rabbit

1. Brushing

Rabbits shed seasonally, so brushing helps remove loose fur and prevents hairballs.

• Frequency: Once a week for short-haired breeds; 2-3 times a week during shedding season. For long-haired breeds, daily brushing is essential.
• Method: Use a soft-bristle brush to gently remove loose fur. Brush in the direction of hair growth to avoid discomfort.

2. Nail Trimming

Overgrown nails cause pet rabbits and guinea pigs pain and difficulty in moving, so it is essential to keep their nails in trim. You should seek advice and learn how to trim your pets’ nails correctly before you start, as it can be tricky. For more insights, you can watch our video guide on how to safely trim nails.

• Frequency: Every 4-6 weeks.
• Method: Hold your rabbit securely and trim just the tip of each nail, avoiding the quick (the pink part), as this can cause bleeding.

3. Spot Cleaning

If your rabbit has a dirty bottom (common in older or overweight rabbits), use pet-safe wipes to clean the area. Avoid giving full baths, as rabbits can easily get stressed or develop hypothermia.

Dirty bottoms can be caused by poor diet, obesity, dental disease or digestive disorders, which may require further treatment, so you should seek veterinary advice. It can be a particular issue in warm weather, as flies can be attracted to the soiled area, which can lead to flystrike. This is an unpleasant condition that can be fatal, so treating the underlying causes of your pet’s dirty bottom is essential.

How to Groom Your Guinea Pig

1. Brushing

Guinea pigs, like rabbits, benefit from regular brushing to remove loose fur and prevent matting.

• Frequency: Weekly for short-haired breeds; 2-3 times a week for long-haired breeds.
• Method: Use a small, soft brush to gently groom your guinea pig, paying attention to areas prone to matting, such as under the chin and around the rear.

2. Nail Trimming

Guinea pigs’ nails grow quickly and need regular trimming. Before attempting to trim your pet’s nails, it’s important to seek guidance and understand the proper technique, as it can be a bit challenging. To learn more, check out our video guide on trimming nails safely.

• Frequency: Every 3-4 weeks.
• Method: Gently hold your guinea pig in a secure position and carefully trim only the tip of each nail, ensuring you avoid the quick (the pink section) to prevent bleeding.

3. Bathing

Guinea pigs generally don’t need baths, but if they get particularly dirty, you can bathe them sparingly, ideally not more than 2-4 times a year.

• How to Bathe: Use lukewarm water and a small animal shampoo. Avoid wetting their face and ears. Dry them thoroughly with a towel and keep them warm afterwards.

Special Grooming Tips for Long-Haired Breeds

For long-haired rabbits and guinea pigs like Angoras or Peruvian guinea pigs, grooming requires extra care:

• Daily Brushing: Prevents tangles and matting.
• Trimming: Regularly trim long fur around the bottom to keep it clean and hygienic.
• Check for Parasites: Long fur can hide mites and lice, so inspect their coat regularly.

Creating a Stress-Free Grooming Experience

1. Start Slow: Let your pet sniff the grooming tools and get comfortable.
2. Use Treats: Reward them with healthy treats during and after grooming.
3. Be Gentle: Handle your pet with care and avoid sudden movements.
4. Know When to Stop: If your pet becomes stressed, take a break and try again later.

When to Seek Veterinary Help

If you notice any of the following during grooming, consult your vet:

• Red, flaky, or irritated skin
• Bald patches or excessive shedding
• Lumps or bumps under the skin
• Overgrown nails curling into the paw

Grooming for a Happier Pet
Regular grooming is essential for the health and happiness of rabbits and guinea pigs. By incorporating grooming into your routine, you’ll keep your pets comfortable and strengthen your bond with them.

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