The guinea pig or domestic guinea pig (Cavia porcellus), also known as the cavy or domestic cavy (/ ˈ k eɪ v i / KAY-vee), is a species of rodent belonging to the genus Cavia, family Caviidae. Breeders tend to use the name "cavy" for the animal, but "guinea pig" is more commonly used in scientific and laboratory contexts. [ 1 ]

Guinea pigs are often mistakenly categorized as rodents due to their physical similarities with mice, rats, and other small mammals. However, scientific research and classification systems provide evidence that guinea pigs are not actually rodents.

Mar 13, 2025 · guinea pig, (Cavia porcellus), a domesticated species of South American rodent belonging to the cavy family (Caviidae). It resembles other cavies in having a robust body with short limbs, large head and eyes , and short ears.

Apr 1, 2025 · Yes, guinea pigs are rodents! Specifically, the scientific community categorizes them under the family Caviidae in the Rodentia order. Now that we’ve answered that, let’s dig a little deeper and get a comprehensive understanding of the guinea pig’s taxonomy and history.

Apr 17, 2022 · Like all rodents, guinea pigs are members of the Rodentia order, which is the largest order of mammals and contains around 2,000 different species, under which is the Caviidae family. As guinea pigs are rodents, they share a unique set of features that sets rodents apart from other animals.

Guinea pigs, like chinchillas, are hystricognath rodents. They belong to the family Cavidae, which contains 14 species of animals commonly known as cavies and Patagonian hares (or maras). Four digits on the forepaw and three on the hindfoot characterize Cavidae.

Jun 13, 1996 · In 1991 Graur et al. raised the question of whether the guinea-pig, Cavia porcellus, is a rodent. They suggested that the guinea-pig and myomorph rodents diverged before the separation between myomorph rodents and a lineage leading to primates and artiodactyls.

Feb 17, 2024 · Learn about the difference between guinea pigs and rodents or lagomorphs in this comprehensive guide. Understand the unique characteristics and classifications of these small animals to better care for them.

Feb 17, 2024 · Despite their similarities, guinea pigs are not considered true rodents due to some distinguishing features. While they share the same basic dental structure and ability to gnaw, there are notable differences between guinea pigs and other rodents. One key difference is the number of incisor teeth.

So, are guinea pigs rodents? Yes, they are a member of Rodentia and fall under the Caviidae family. Here, we will be briefing why are they called rodents and discussing their features and characteristics.