Skinny Pigs: The Latest Pet Trend Blowing Up The Internet

If you’ve never heard of a skinny pig, you’re missing out. There’s a new sensation taking over social media feeds and stealing the hearts of animal lovers everywhere, and it’s easy to see why. These little hairless creatures are as adorable as they are cuddly – and they even wear sweaters. 

If you haven’t hopped on the skinny pig bandwagon yet, it’s time to learn what makes them so popular. So, what is a skinny pig, anyway? Let’s find out!

What the Heck is a Skinny Pig?

Let’s start with the basics – what exactly is a skinny pig? No, it’s not a pig that went on a diet; rather, it’s an almost-hairless guinea pig. The first thing you notice about these little creatures is their lack of fur, making them stand out from their fluffy counterparts. However, they aren’t completely hairless. They have tufts of fur on their face, feet, and legs. Some also have a little on their backs as well. Skinny pigs can also have a variety of skin and fur colors and patterns, including Himalayan, Dutch, and Brindle.

Why are Skinny Pigs So Popular?

Regardless of their color, their adorable floppy ears and defenseless nature are sure to tug at your heartstrings. They thrive off warm cuddles and will even tolerate an outfit or two – especially if it’s cozy and helps keep them warm. Without a doubt, this is what makes them so popular. 

Skinny pigs are also renowned for their friendly and affectionate nature. They love to interact with their owners, making them perfect companions for those seeking a cuddly and social pet. Their unique appearance also sets them apart, making them the center of attention on social media platforms. As the saying goes, “Different is beautiful,” and skinny pigs are living proof of that. Just take a look at Ludwik the Guinea Pig, who has 222k followers on Instagram. 

What’s the Difference Between a Baldwin and a Skinny Pig?

Before diving further into the skinny pig world, we should address the common confusion between Skinny Pigs and their close relatives, the Baldwins. While both are hairless guinea pigs, they differ in one significant aspect – their genetics. Skinny pigs are born hairless, except for the tufts of fur on their face, legs, and feet, and stay that way throughout their lives. Baldwins, however, are born with a full coat of fur that eventually falls out over the first few months of their lives, leaving them completely hairless as adults. Baldwins also tend to have floppier ears.  

Why Are Skinny Pigs Hairless?

Now, you might be wondering about the genetics behind these adorably bald critters. The modern strain of skinny pig came from breeding haired guinea pigs with a hairless lab strain that likely came from a spontaneous genetic mutation.

This mutation was first discovered in the 1970s in a colony of Hartley lab guinea pigs. While their lack of fur might initially take some aback, it’s important to recognize that these pets have unique needs and equally unique qualities that make them delightful and loving companions.

Suggested reading: Skinny pigs aren’t the only hairless pets that could use a warm sweater. Check out these fashion-forward styles for your bad and beautiful Sphynx.

How to Care For a Skinny Pig

Owning a skinny pig requires a bit of extra care compared to their furry friends. Let’s explore some essential tips to ensure your hairless buddy lives a happy and healthy life.

Give Them Plenty of Fresh Water and Food

Skinny Pigs, like all guinea pigs, thrive on a balanced diet. Provide them with a consistent supply of fresh Timothy Hay, high-quality guinea pig pellets, and a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables. It’s especially important to keep skinny pigs’ tummies full because they need to eat more than their furry counterparts in order to keep their body temperature up. And of course, always ensure they have access to clean, fresh water. A well-nourished skinny pig is a happy and energetic one. 

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Consider Getting Two or More

Guinea pigs are social creatures, and skinny pigs are no exception. Because of this, we recommend adopting two or more to keep each other company. They’ll engage in adorable antics, share cuddle sessions, and keep each other entertained. Just make sure to introduce them gradually and monitor their interactions to ensure a smooth introduction.

Furthermore, you’ll need to make sure their enclosure is large enough for the two of them to have plenty of room to move around. If the cage is too small, they’ll be more prone to scrapes on their sensitive skin from their roomie’s nails. 

Provide Plenty of Clean, Cozy Bedding

Without the protection of fur, skinny pigs are more susceptible to temperature changes. To keep them comfortable, be sure to provide plenty of clean, cozy bedding with hiding areas. This will not only keep them warm but also give them a soft spot to rest and play. Opt for bedding made from safe materials, such as washable fleece, to create a cozy and easy-to-clean environment.

Keep Their Room Warm

Since skinny pigs lack the insulation of fur, maintaining a warm environment is crucial. Keep their living space at a comfortable temperature, ideally between 72-75 degrees Fahrenheit. If you need to, you could also provide a chew-proof heating pad designed for small animals. Remember to place it underneath your skinny pig’s fleece or the cage itself so it doesn’t become too hot. It’s also important to keep their cage away from drafts to ensure they stay warm and content.

With all the emphasis on keeping skinny pigs warm, however, there’s also the risk of heat exhaustion if they get too hot. Remember that your skinny pig will be just fine in a 72-75-degree room with no major drafts and plenty of cozy bedding. It’s not necessary (and can be harmful) to direct a heater their way or put their cage in direct sunlight. More on that soon. 

Trim Their Nails Regularly

Like all guinea pigs, skinny pigs need regular nail maintenance. Their lack of fur makes it more likely that they’ll experience cuts and scrapes from either their own nails or their roommate’s nails, so this is extra important. 

Guinea pig nails should be cut at least once a month with appropriate nail clippers. Be sure to cut diagonally (not straight across) and avoid the quick, which is the red area that contains blood and nerves. For more information, check out this complete guide to trimming guinea pig nails. 

Pro tip: If you have other animals who hate nail trimmings, we have your back. Learn how to cut an uncooperative dog’s nails here.

Protect Their Skin

Given their hairless nature, skinny pigs have sensitive skin that requires extra attention. Be sure to protect them from direct sunlight, as their skin can be prone to sunburn. If you plan to take them outside, always ensure they have a shaded area to retreat to. 

It’s also important to keep your skinny pig’s skin clean and moisturized with non-toxic products as well. Organic coconut oil is perfect for keeping dryness or irritation at bay. Moreover, skinny pig clothing is not just adorable – it can be practical for keeping them warm as well. Just be sure to give them breaks from their cozy sweaters and always keep their outfits clean.  

Get Ready For Lots of Skinny Pig Cuddles

One of the best parts of owning a skinny pig is the abundance of cuddles they’re willing to share – as long as they’re well taken care of. These little companions thrive on human interaction and will quickly become your snuggle buddies. Whether you’re binge-watching your favorite TV show or reading a book, expect your skinny pig to be right there, soaking up the warmth and affection. So, if you’re looking for a pet that stands out from the crowd and is ready to fill your life with joy and love, consider joining the skinny pig craze – your new, hairless friend might just be waiting for you!