In the 1980s, the breeders dreamed of creating a guinea pig like no other. They were looking for soft, curly fur, something sophisticated but snuggly. They made history by crossing a Silkie with a Rex. This is how the Texel guinea pig came into being. But beauty is not without its challenges. They require additional pampering, like daily grooming and a special diet. Having one is not just about looks, love, patience and commitment. Wondering whether a Texel is for you?
History & Origin
The Texel guinea pig is another special breed recognized for its long and curly coat. It was created in England in the 1980s by breeding a Silkie guinea pig with a Rex. Breeders wished to develop a guinea pig with soft, wavy hair that differed from other breeds. Within short order, the Texel gained favouritism for its soft ringlets, which cloak its entire body, including its face. Larger guinea pig clubs, such as the American Cavy Breeders Association (ACBA) and the British Cavy Council, officially recognized the breed.
Physical Characteristics
| Characteristic | Details |
|---|---|
| Size and Weight | 8 to 10 inches (20-25 cm) in Size 1.5 to 2.5 pounds (700-1200g) |
| Coat Color | including white, black, brown, gold, cream |
| Coat patterns | Solid, bicolor, tricolor, roan, brindle, agouti. |
| Hair length | Long-haired (4 to 6 inches / 10 to 15 cm) |
| Eyes & Nose | Eyes: Round, bright, black, red, or pink. Nose: Small, upturned, pink or dark. |
| Legs, Paws and Tail | Short sturdy legs, small paws with unique toe count, and a nearly invisible tail hidden in fur. |
| Top Speed | Around 5-6 mph (8-10 km/h) |
| Heart rate | 200-300 beats per minute |
| Estrus cycle | Every 15-17 days |
| Duration of pregnancy | Approximately 59-72 days |
| Litter size | 2 to 4 pups on average |
| Normal body temperature | 99-103°F (37-39.5°C) |
| Lifespan | 4 to 7 years |
Habitat
They require a large, clean, well-ventilated environment to maintain their health. Their long, curly fur requires a dry, debris-free environment to prevent the matting that can lead to infections. A 7.5-square-foot cage is perfect, but bigger is better. Avoid tangles using soft, absorbent bedding like fleece. Lay out a hideout, hay, and toys for enrichment. Daily spot-cleaning and weekly deep cleaning, followed by disinfectant spraying, keep their space hygienic, making their pet happier, active, and healthy.
Behaviour
The Texels make very calm, loving, and friendly pets with a strong desire for companionship. Shy at first, they become friendly and trusting with regular handling. They are naturally curious and playful, which gives them something to do as they explore, chew hay, or play with toys.
Texels do best in pairs or small groups and communicate with chirps, purrs, and squeaks. They are typically placid and snuggly, although they can be very chatty when hungry or enthusiastic. They should also be provided with toys, tunnels, and enrichment to keep their minds sharp. Their social nature makes them loyal and loving pets, but they need regular attention and companionship to stay happy.
Caring for a Texel Guinea Pig
Diet and Nutrition Requirements
A well-balanced diet is essential to keep a Texel healthy and active. They require fresh hay daily because it helps digestion and prevents overgrown teeth. In addition to hay, they do best on high-quality pellets and various fresh vegetables, including bell peppers, leafy greens, and carrots.
Because guinea pigs can’t synthesize their own vitamin C, they require vitamin C–rich foods or supplements to avoid disease. Ensure they always have fresh, clean water available to stay hydrated. Avoid sugary, processed, or dairy-based foods, as they can cause digestive issues and obesity. Never feed onions, garlic, chocolate, potatoes, iceberg lettuce, or any toxic plants, as these can be harmful or even fatal.
Exercise & Playtime
Though gentle and cuddly and not requiring rigorous exercise to remain healthy, Texels still need daily exercise. A safe outdoor play area outside their cage allows them to run, explore, and stretch.
Examples include toys, tunnels, and chew sticks that help keep them mentally engaged and prevent boredom. Others love some light floortime with their people to roam about in a safe area under observation. Regular exercise helps to prevent obesity and maintain good health.
Training & Socialization
Texel guinea pigs are intelligent and can learn basic routines. With time, they can learn to respond when called, come when they’re called or even use a litter box. Rewarding good behaviour with positive reinforcement, such as gentle petting or tiny treats, helps foster proper behaviour. Also, they require daily interaction to build trust and strengthen their bond with their owner. Speaking soothingly and giving them regular handling makes them feel safe and loved.
Grooming & Coat Maintenance
Texels have one of the most high-maintenance guinea pig coats. Their dense, curly fur can quickly become matted if it’s not brushed on the regular. Regular gentle brushing each day helps keep tangles away and removes dirt. Due to their fur growing long, they may need to be trimmed occasionally around the face and body. Keeping their cage clean and dry also helps prevent their fur from getting dirty or matted. You should only bathe them when necessary; you may use guinea pig-safe shampoo to avoid skin irritation.
Health Issues of Texel Guinea Pigs
Texel guinea pigs are cute and friendly. However, their long and curly hair and genetics make them susceptible to specific health issues. Regular grooming, a proper diet, and a clean habitat can prevent many problems, but owners should look for signs of illness.
Matting and Skin Infections
Due to their dense, curly coats, texels are at high risk for fur matting and skin infections. Dirt, moisture, and bedding can become trapped in their fur, resulting in bacterial or fungal infections. These problems are usually avoided by regular brushing and proper care of their cage.
Dental Problems
Like all guinea pigs, Texels have continuously growing teeth that must be worn down through chewing. A fresh hay and fibrous vegetable diet is essential to prevent overgrown teeth, painful oral conditions, and difficulty eating. Signs of dental problems include drooling, weight loss and trouble chewing.
Digestive Issues
Texel guinea pigs have sensitive digestive systems, so portion planning is essential. Excessing sugar-heavy fruits, eating too little fibre, or changing a diet too quickly can lead to bloating, diarrhoea or even gastrointestinal stasis (a potentially lethal slowing of digestion). Good hay, fresh vegetables and clean water help optimize digestion.
Eye Infections
Not infrequently, their long fur can cause irritation to their eyes — resulting in infections, redness or excessive tearing. Wrap a tissue around your finger, remove dirt around tears without disturbing the eye, and use a light hand to trim the fur around the eye for better visibility. A guinea pig with eye infection symptoms may need to visit the vet.
Respiratory Infections
Texels are prone to respiratory infections, particularly in a damp or dusty environment. Symptoms can include sneezing, wheezing, difficulty breathing, or nasal discharge. A clean, well-ventilated cage and bedding made of dust-free material help minimize the risk of respiratory disease in some animals. If symptoms develop, prompt veterinary attention is required.
Obesity and Joint Problems
Texel guinea pigs are generally more reactive than some other breeds, which can cause them to gain weight and have mobility issues. Feeding them a proper diet, controlling portions, and exercising them (daily playtime) help maintain a healthy body weight.
Tunnels, floor time, and interactive toys encourage movement and prevent problems such as obesity. If a Texel guinea pig becomes overweight, adjust their diet gradually and encourage movement to relieve joint stress and prevent long-term health problems.
Vitamin C Deficiency (Scurvy)
Guinea pigs cannot produce their own vitamin C, and a deficiency can lead to scurvy, which causes weakness, swollen joints, and skin problems. Feeding vitamin C-rich vegetables like bell peppers, parsley, and kale or using vet-approved supplements helps prevent this condition.
Cost of a Texel Guinea Pig
Texel guinea pigs’ price ranges depend on location, breeder reputation, age, and colour variations. They typically cost $30 to $75 from a pet store and $75 to $150 from a legitimate breeder, particularly for show-quality Texels with marker coat texture and colour patterns. Paying $20 to $50 (approximately) when adopting from a rescue or shelter.
However, the initial cost of purchasing a Texel is just the beginning. Owners should consider the ongoing expenses, which include:
- Cage and habitat setup: $50 – $150
- High-quality hay and pellets: $10 – $30 per month
- Fresh vegetables and vitamin C supplements: $15 – $25 per month
- Bedding and cleaning supplies: $20 – $40 per month
- Grooming tools (brushes, safe shampoo, scissors for trimming): $10 – $50
- Veterinary checkups and emergency care: $50 – $200+ per visit
How to Buy and Sell Texel Guinea Pigs Responsibly
We all know that buying and selling Texel is a very tricky subject and requires lots and lots of research and making choices that you can justify as ethical. If you plan on buying, find a reputable breeder or rescue that prioritizes the guinea pig’s health. Refrain from purchasing from pet stores, which may not treat residents well. Ensure the guinea pig has bright eyes, a clean coat, and is active to confirm its health. Before committing, ask about its diet, medical history and living conditions.
Texel are long-haired guinea pigs, and if you need to sell or rehome your Texel guinea pig, try to find a suitable new owner who is responsible and understands their needs. Do not sell to impulse buyers not ready for the grooming and social attention Texels require. Instead, reach out to local guinea pig groups, rescues or trusted breeders who can find a safe home. Always keep the guinea pig’s best interest (and not profit) in mind, placing them in the hands of someone who will care for them properly.
Also Read: Abyssinian Guinea Pig and American Satin Guinea Pig
Conclusion
Texel guinea pigs are unique and lovable pets needing specialized coat care. They do best in a clean, open space with proper grooming, a nutritious diet, and social interaction on schedule. Although they are susceptible to some health problems, careful attention and regular checkups can keep them feeling good and healthy. Texels demand effort to own but pay off their families in a loving manner. Ethical decisions protect their well-being whether you are buying or selling. With the proper care, a Texel guinea pig can be a cherished pet for years.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are Texel guinea pigs friendly?
Texel guinea pigs are sweet, calm, and affectionate. They love companionship and become very friendly with regular handling. Though shy at first, they warm up quickly and enjoy cuddles.
What is the personality of a Texel guinea pig?
Texels are playful, curious, and social. They love to explore, chirp, and interact with their owners. They enjoy being in pairs or groups and are known for their loving nature.
How big does a Texel guinea pig get?
Texel guinea pigs typically grow between 8 to 10 inches (20-25 cm) long and weigh around 1.5 to 2.5 pounds (700-1200g) when fully grown.
What is the difference between a Merino and Texel guinea pig?
Both breeds have curly coats, but Merinos have a crest (a swirl of fur) on their heads, while Texels do not. Texels also have denser, tighter curls than Merinos.
What is the prettiest guinea pig?
Beauty is subjective, but many consider Texel guinea pigs among the most stunning due to their luxurious, curly coats. Peruvians and Silkies are also popular for their flowing hair.
