Rabbits and guinea pigs are two of the most popular small pets in Australia. They’re both cute, cuddly, and relatively easy to care for, making them great companions for families, children, and animal lovers alike. However, while they might seem similar at first glance, rabbits and guinea pigs have different needs, behaviours, and care requirements. Understanding these differences is key to choosing the right pet for your household.
In this article, we’ll explore the main differences between rabbits and guinea pigs as pets, covering everything from housing and diet to temperament and social needs.
Size and physical characteristics
One of the most obvious differences between rabbits and guinea pigs is their size and appearance. Rabbits vary greatly in size depending on the breed, ranging from small dwarf rabbits (around 1kg) to giant breeds like the Flemish Giant, which can weigh over 6kg. They have long ears, strong back legs for hopping, and soft, fluffy fur.
Guinea pigs are generally much smaller and more compact. Most adult guinea pigs weigh between 800g and 1.2kg and have short legs and rounded bodies. Their ears are small, and they don’t have the powerful hind legs that rabbits do. Guinea pigs don’t hop, they walk or run with a waddling gait.
Lifespan
Both rabbits and guinea pigs can live relatively long lives with the right care, but there are differences in their average lifespans. Rabbits typically live for 8 to 12 years, with some breeds and individuals living even longer. Guinea pigs tend to have a slightly shorter lifespan, averaging between 5 to 8 years.
This means that choosing a rabbit as a pet could be a longer commitment, which is important to consider when bringing any animal into your home.
Housing and space requirements
Rabbits require significantly more space than guinea pigs. They are active animals that need room to hop, stretch, and explore. A standard rabbit hutch is not enough, rabbits should have access to a secure run or a rabbit-proofed indoor area for several hours each day. Ideally, they should live in a large enclosure or free-roam space where they can express natural behaviours like digging and jumping.
Guinea pigs, while also active, don’t need quite as much room. However, many pet store cages are too small. A pair of guinea pigs should have a minimum of 1.2m x 0.6m of floor space, but bigger is always better. Like rabbits, guinea pigs benefit from enrichment such as tunnels, hideouts, and toys.
Importantly, rabbits and guinea pigs should never be housed together, as they have different nutritional needs and communicate in different ways. Rabbits can also unintentionally injure guinea pigs due to their powerful legs.
Dietary needs
One of the most critical differences between rabbits and guinea pigs is their diet. While both animals are herbivores and require a high-fibre diet consisting primarily of hay, their specific nutritional needs vary and must be met with species-appropriate foods.
Hay should make up the bulk of the diet for both rabbits and guinea pigs, around 80–90%, and serves a crucial role in maintaining digestive health and preventing dental issues. A high-quality timothy hay like Oxbow Western Timothy Grass is an excellent choice, offering the ideal balance of fibre and low calcium to support gut function and healthy teeth. Hand-sorted and naturally sun-cured, it also encourages foraging behaviour and natural chewing instincts.
Rabbits benefit from a diet supplemented with leafy greens and a small amount of specially formulated pellets. It’s important to avoid sugary treats and limit high-calcium vegetables, which can contribute to urinary issues. Oxbow Essentials Adult Rabbit Food is a balanced pellet option made with timothy hay, fortified with essential vitamins, minerals, and prebiotics to support adult rabbit health. Its uniform pellets help prevent selective feeding, ensuring consistent nutrition.
Guinea pigs, on the other hand, have a unique requirement for vitamin C, as they cannot produce it themselves. This means their diet must include daily portions of vitamin C–rich vegetables like capsicum, parsley, or kale, in addition to hay and pellets. Oxbow Essentials Adult Guinea Pig Food is a great option, formulated with timothy hay and stabilised vitamin C to meet this essential need. Like the rabbit formula, it uses uniform pellets to avoid selective eating and supports digestive and dental health.
It’s crucial to avoid feeding rabbit pellets to guinea pigs and vice versa, as the nutritional profiles differ significantly. Providing your pet with the right combination of high-fibre hay, fresh greens, and species-specific pellets will go a long way in supporting their health and wellbeing.
Behaviour and temperament
Rabbits and guinea pigs differ quite significantly in terms of behaviour and personality. Rabbits are intelligent, independent, and can be quite spirited. They are curious animals that enjoy exploring their surroundings. While rabbits can be affectionate, they may not enjoy being picked up and handled frequently, especially if they weren’t handled much when young. With time and patience, rabbits can bond closely with their humans and even learn tricks or use a litter tray.
Guinea pigs are generally more social with people and tend to tolerate handling better, especially if introduced to it early. They’re known for their vocalisations, including squeaks, purrs, and whistles, and they often call out when they hear the rustle of a food bag. Guinea pigs are prey animals and can be skittish at first, but they usually become more confident with gentle, consistent interaction.
Both pets have distinct personalities, and while rabbits may be more mischievous and independent, guinea pigs are often seen as more placid and cuddly.
Social needs
Neither rabbits nor guinea pigs should be kept alone. Rabbits are highly social animals and should be kept in bonded pairs or compatible groups. A bonded rabbit pair typically consists of a desexed male and female, although same-sex pairings can work if properly introduced. A lonely rabbit can suffer from boredom, depression, and behavioural problems.
Guinea pigs are also extremely social and should be kept in same-sex pairs or small groups. They thrive on the companionship of their own kind, and a single guinea pig can become withdrawn and unhealthy. Boars (male guinea pigs) often do well in pairs or trios, while sows (females) can live in larger groups. In both species, proper introductions and monitoring are essential when forming new groups to prevent fighting or stress.
Noise levels
Guinea pigs are more vocal than rabbits. They make a range of sounds to express themselves, squealing when excited, purring when content, and chattering when annoyed. Their vocalisations are one of the reasons people find guinea pigs so endearing.
Rabbits are relatively quiet. They don’t vocalise much, though they may grunt, thump their back legs to signal danger, or make soft purring sounds when content. Some rabbits may scream if frightened or in pain, but this is rare and indicates distress. If you're after a quiet companion, a rabbit might be the better choice. But if you enjoy a bit of cheerful noise, guinea pigs will keep you entertained.
Handling and children
Guinea pigs are often recommended for children due to their gentle nature and manageable size. They tolerate handling well when done correctly and are less likely to scratch or kick than rabbits. However, young children should always be supervised around small pets to ensure they are handled safely and respectfully.
Rabbits are more fragile than they appear. Their powerful back legs can cause injury if they kick out when held improperly. They can also become stressed by loud noises and unpredictable handling. While older children can enjoy caring for and bonding with a rabbit, they’re generally not ideal pets for very young children. In either case, an adult should always be responsible for pet care, with children involved under supervision.
Health and veterinary care
Both rabbits and guinea pigs need regular health checks and access to a vet experienced with exotic pets.
Common rabbit health issues include:
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Dental problems
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Gastrointestinal stasis
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Respiratory infections
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Flystrike in warmer months
Guinea pigs are prone to:
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Vitamin C deficiency
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Dental disease
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Respiratory infections
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Skin issues like mites and fungal infections
Rabbits also require desexing to prevent reproductive cancers and hormonal aggression. Guinea pigs don’t require desexing unless there’s a specific health or behavioural reason, though desexing is essential for mixed-sex pairs. Preventative care such as grooming, flea control, and nail trimming is important for both species.
Cost and commitment
While both rabbits and guinea pigs are affordable to buy or adopt, the ongoing cost of their care can add up. Rabbits, due to their larger size and housing needs, generally cost more to care for.
You’ll need to factor in:
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Housing and bedding
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Food and hay
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Vet bills
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Desexing (for rabbits)
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Toys and enrichment
Guinea pigs are slightly more economical but still require quality food, housing, and regular vet care. Both species require a daily time commitment for feeding, cleaning, and interaction. They are not “low-maintenance” pets and should not be chosen on impulse.
Which pet is right for you?
Choosing between a rabbit and a guinea pig comes down to your lifestyle, preferences, and experience as a pet owner.
Choose a rabbit if you:
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Want a smart, independent pet that can roam and explore
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Have space for a large enclosure or rabbit-proofed indoor area
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Are prepared for a longer commitment
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Don’t mind a more hands-off companion
Choose a guinea pig if you:
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Want a cuddly, social animal with a gentle temperament
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Have limited space but can provide a roomy enclosure
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Enjoy vocal interaction and daily bonding time
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Are looking for a slightly easier introduction to small pet care
Rabbits and guinea pigs each make wonderful pets in the right environment. While they share some similarities, their differences in size, diet, social needs, and care requirements mean they suit different households and lifestyles. By understanding the unique characteristics of each, you can make an informed decision and provide the best possible home for your new furry friend.
At Woonona Petfoods, we stock a wide range of rabbit and guinea pig supplies, from hay and food to enclosures and enrichment. Whether you’re a first-time pet owner or a seasoned small animal lover, we’re here to help you care for your companion every step of the way.
