Did you know that you needed to bathe your guinea pig?
As surprising as it may sound, it’s absolutely true! 🐹🛁
Even though guinea pigs continuously groom themselves, they’re still at risk of contracting parasites, infections, skin irritations, and becoming smelly and dirty. Your only solution to keep your guinea pig squeaky clean is to give them an occasional bath with the best Guinea Pig shampoo. 🧴
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Hmm, but how do I know which shampoo is the right one for my must-bathe guinea pig?
It’s no easy task, as our little pet friends have sensitive skin… but, lucky for you, you’ve found this super helpful article! Read on, and we’ll review our seven favorite shampoos, one of which is sure to be right for your furball.
By the way, we’ve also compiled a buyer’s guide at the bottom of this article. It’ll help you understand a lot more about guinea pig bathtime, from shampoo basics all the way to a step-by-step guide on how to bathe a guinea pig. You won’t want to miss it!
Table of Contents
Best Guinea Pig Shampoo – 7 products covered in this guide at a glance
- Earthbath Oatmeal Shampoo Vanilla & Almond
- J·R·LIGGETT'S Small Pet Shampoo
- Kaytee Squeaky Clean Critter Shampoo
- Begley’s Natural Waterless Pet Shampoo
- Citrus Magic Foaming Pet Cleanser
- Johnson's Small Animal Shampoo
- Kaytee Quick & Clean Shampoo Spray
Note: Clicking the above links will take you to further information, current prices and customer reviews on Amazon.
Reviewed – The Seven Best Guinea Pig Shampoos of 2020
Earthbath Oatmeal Shampoo Vanilla & Almond
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Congratulations to Earthbath on taking home the prize for the best guinea pig shampoo!
It’s well-deserved as they’ve come up with a fantastic product. Just take a quick look at our pros and cons list below if you don’t believe us!
Our absolute favorite thing about this product is that it contains oatmeal and aloe vera. These two ingredients do a phenomenal job at keeping a guinea pig’s skin moisturized and irritation-free. Bye-bye, itchy, flaky, and dry skin!
Manufacturers Specs and Features
- Totally natural pet care, 100-percent bio-degradable and cruelty free
- Soap-free shampoo
- Heavenly-scented
- Safe, gentle and effective
Pros
- Effective but gentle
- pH balanced and soap-free
- 100% biodegradable
- All-natural ingredients
- Delicate scent (no artificial fragrances)
- Cruelty-free
- Doesn’t wash topical flea applications off
- Works for all types of furry pets
- Well-priced 16-ounce (473mL) bottle
- Comes with a money-back guarantee
Cons
- Not explicitly formulated for guinea pigs baths, but that’s just us nitpicking
Special Extra Mention : Earthbath Mediterranean Magic
Do you want to try a different fragrance the next time you bathe your guinea pig?
The good news is you won’t need to sacrifice any quality for a new scent, as Earthbath also sells this excellent Earthbath Mediterranean Magic. Give it a shot!
J·R·LIGGETT’S Small Pet Shampoo
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This J·R·LIGGETT shampoo is a lot more than an attractive label!
Well, we won’t lie. The three cute, cuddly pets undoubtedly caught our eye…
But it was the natural ingredients and the product’s specific focus on small animals’ needs that won us over. This detergent-free shampoo will leave any guinea pig feeling soft, clean, fresh, and moisturized. Exactly what you’re after!
It’s also our favorite for long-haired guinea pigs thanks to its nourishing mix of natural oils that support a healthy coat.
Manufacturers Specs and Features
- GENTLE CLEANSING: Formulated for Small Animals it is an all-natural liquid shampoo that is mild and gentle! Almond, Cedarwood, Lemongrass, Lavender and Rosemary oils offer a fresh clean scent, moisturizing skin and coat.
- EASE ITCHING AND DRY SKIN: While other detergent products dry skin and fur, our shampoo offers Virgin Coconut and Almond Oils that penetrate deep to hydrate skin, relieve itchiness and promote a soft, healthy, clean coat.
- SPECIFICALLY FOR SMALL ANIMALS: Instead of detergent liquid shampoos, our non-detergent shampoo was designed specifically for small animals. Easy to use, rinses clean, and your pet is left with healthy, great smelling fur!
- PET-SAFE INGREDIENTS: Contains NO Tea Tree Oil that can harm Small Animals. Our sulfate-free shampoo is free from detergents and GMOs. It’s 100% biodegradable, hypoallergenic, and safe for small animal’s delicate skin.
- HANDMADE IN CORNISH, NH USA: Made in small batches, our Small Animal liquid shampoo can be used safely on Guinea Pigs, Ferrets, Rabbits etc. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to let us know.
Pros
- Mild and gentle
- 100% natural and GMO-free
- Moisturizing
- Easy to rinse
- Fresh scent thanks to the abundance of natural oils
- Biodegradable
- Handmade in the USA
Cons
- Pricier than the alternatives
Kaytee Squeaky Clean Critter Shampoo
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Kaytee has done it again with yet another fantastic product for small pets!
This top-selling cavy shampoo is the complete package: it gently removes dirt, eliminates odors, regulates pH levels, and moisturizes fur and dry skin.
It might sound perfect, and it almost is, but there’s a small catch that stopped us from giving it first place: it has a strong fragrance that you or your guinea pig might not like. Keep this in mind if either of you has sensitive noses!
Manufacturers Specs and Features
- Totally tearless and pH balanced for safe use on your pet.
- Helps eliminate odors with a long lasting baby powder fragrance.
- You will feel the softness, smell and freshness, and see the shine when you use Squeaky Clean Shampoo.
- 8-Ounce
- For guinea pigs, rabbits, and other small pets
Pros
- pH balanced, perfect for a guinea pig’s sensitive skin
- Specially designed for small animals
- Totally tearless
- Large 8-ounce (125mL) bottle
- Affordably priced
Cons
- Strong baby powder fragrance
Begley’s Natural Waterless Pet Shampoo
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Do your guinea pigs hate taking a bath? And are you sick and tired of having to struggle to get them clean?
Then Begley’s waterless spray shampoo is the perfect choice for you!
Worried it won’t do a good job without water? Don’t! Despite not being quite as efficient as bathing your pet, it’s still excellent for cleaning small animals and leaving their fur smelling fresh and pleasant.
Manufacturers Specs and Features
- ALL-NATURAL FORMULA. Safe to use and readily biodegradable, this 16-ounce bottle of pet shampoo is developed using natural ingredients. There are no caustics, dyes, synthetic fragrances, parabens, phthalates, chlorine, formaldehyde, triclosan, or phosphates used, ensuring it won’t create any irritation to you, your pets or the environment.
- WATERLESS SHAMPOO. Saving time and cleaning efficiently, this waterless shampoo is the perfect way to furnish your pet with a fresh-smelling, shiny coat without having to deal with water. It’s a great solution in between trips to the groomer and for pets who dislike bathing.
- EASY TO USE. Simply spray your pet’s coat liberally and wipe treated area with damp cloth, working well into fur. To avoid getting in your pet’s eyes, spray onto damp cloth and apply to head and face. Allow the shampoo to dry, then brush and groom as usual. Repeat process for heavily soiled or foul-smelling areas as needed.
- CHOICE OF SCENTS. To accommodate everyone’s taste, Begley's Natural Waterless Pet Shampoo is available in four wonderful scents – lavender, citrus, oatmeal mango and tee tree. All scents come from natural essential oils without the use of synthetic fragrances.
- ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY. Actor, author and environmentalist Ed Begley, Jr. – working with industry leader Lab Clean LLC – set out to develop natural household products that are plant-based, sustainable, and biodegradable without sacrificing on performance. Each Earth-responsible product is individually designed and tested to perform equal to or better than its corresponding non-green alternative.
Pros
- Easy to use and waterless
- All-natural, non-toxic ingredients
- Great for when it’s too cold to bathe your guinea pig or when you’re on-the-go
- 16-ounce (473mL) bottle
- Available in a cost-efficient double pack
- Comes in four natural scent variations: lavender, citrus, oatmeal mango, and tea tree
- Environmentally friendly
- Works on other furry pets too
Cons
- Not specially formulated for guinea pigs
- Not as effective as a liquid bath shampoo
Citrus Magic Foaming Pet Cleanser
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This Citrus Magic cleanser for pets is easily the best value product on our list!
For less than $5, you’ll get your hands on an efficient shampoo that’ll make cleaning your guinea pigs a breeze. It’s been designed to work without water or rinsing (and it mostly does!), so we can suggest it for hard-to-bathe pets.
We seriously like that it’s made from all-natural ingredients that are soft on sensitive skin but hard on dirt, oils, and odors.
Manufacturers Specs and Features
- Foaming cleanser that helps clean and remove odors from pet's coats
- Unique formula includes enzymes that clean and deodorize in seconds
- Includes a easy-to-use foaming pump which dispenses the cleanser into your hands
- Perfect for small animals like ferrets, hamsters, rabbits, and kittens
- Fragrance-free
Pros
- Very affordable
- A mild yet effective cleanser
- Mostly waterless application
- Easy-to-use foaming pump
- No added chemicals
- Fragrance-free with only a very subtle orange scent
Cons
- Not specially formulated for guinea pigs
- Not as effective as a liquid bath shampoo
Johnson’s Small Animal Shampoo
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Johnson’s Small Animal Shampoo is another great choice if you want a quality product to bathe your guinea pig with.
It’s a mild, non-irritant cleanser that’ll leave your small pets looking, smelling, and feeling luscious! We particularly recommend it if your fluffball has irritated or dry skin that needs soothing and nourishing.
Manufacturers Specs and Features
- Cleanses and deodorises
- Mild and non irritant
- For small animals over 12 weeks of age
- Model number: 19-0260
Pros
- Excellent at cleaning and deodorizing
- Mild formula
- pH balanced
- Soft, pleasant fragrance
- Specifically for small animals
Cons
- More expensive than the alternatives
- Comes in a small 4.23-ounce (125mL) bottle
Kaytee Quick & Clean Shampoo Spray
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The final product to make our list is a solid option if you’re looking for an affordable dry shampoo.
It will gently remove dirt, dissolve oil and deodorize bad smells. All without water!
However, since it’s the dry variation of our bronze medalist Kaytee shampoo, it has the same drawback: a strong baby powder fragrance. Definitely consider if this would bother you before buying it!
Manufacturers Specs and Features
- Specially formulated no-rinse shampoo gently loosens dirt, dissolves oil and deodorizes your pet's skin and coat, leaving your furry friend smelling as fresh as a baby
- Simple spray on solution for soiled pets
- Non-irritating leave-on formula
- Leaves your pet with a cleaned and conditioned coat
- Fresh baby powder fragrance
Pros
- Water-free
- Gentle and pH balanced
- Very affordable
- Neutralizes odors
- Suitable for other small pets (i.e., rabbits, hamsters)
Cons
- Strong baby powder fragrance
- Maybe not as effective as a liquid bath shampoo
Buyer’s Guide to Guinea Pig Shampoo
Do you need a little bit more help in your quest to find the best guinea pig shampoo?
Then this is the section for you!
Keep reading to find out the answers to four of the most commonly asked questions we get about shampoo and bathing guinea pigs! 🐹🛁
What Should I Look for in a Guinea Pig Shampoo?
Carefully inspect the shampoo against the following checklist:
- Is the shampoo right for my guinea pig’s coat and skin type? Different guinea pigs have different needs. Some are okay with stronger formulas, while others have very sensitive skin that needs extra soothing ingredients like aloe vera. Ask your vet if you’re not sure!
- Is it made from natural ingredients? Stay 100% natural, and you’ll be certain it’s safe!
- Is the shampoo chemical-free? No harsh additives = lower risk of skin injures.
- Do I prefer dry or liquid shampoo? Liquid shampoos clean better, but they require a guinea pig that will allow you to bathe them. If you can’t get your pet near water, then dry shampoo is the right choice.
- Is the bottle size adequate for my needs? Sizes vary, so double check you’re getting the right one, especially if you have multiple guinea pigs.
How Often Should I Bathe My Pet Guinea Pig?
You should aim to wash your guinea pig about once a month during the warm season and every other month during the cold season. This might seem like little, but it’s essential not to overwash guinea pigs as you’d risk irritating their skin and stripping it of its natural oils.
How to Bathe Guinea Pigs in Water?
Here’s our step-by-step guide:
- Find a suitably sized basin for your pet guinea pig – something like a sink or a baby bathtub.
- Fill it with about 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) of warm water.
- Gently grab your guinea pig and then dip their tiny feet in the water. Once they’re used to the feel of water, slowly place them down.
- Give them a couple more minutes to get accustomed to being in the water.
- Then pour some warm water on your pet and apply your chosen shampoo.
- Gently rub the shampoo into their coats and skin. Avoid touching their ears and eyes as you wash their faces. If your guinea pig really doesn’t like water, you can lift them out of the basin and complete this step on a towel.
- If your guinea pig gets restless, distract them with a treat or two.
- Wash off the shampoo with warm water. It will take two to three rinses.
- Remove your guinea pig from the basin and dry them thoroughly with a soft towel.
- You can also use a blowdryer to dry them if your pet isn’t scared of the noise.
- All done – fluffy is ready to go back home, nice and clean!
And How About Without Water?
It’s a much easier process.
All you need to do is apply the waterless shampoo on your fussy guinea pig and then gently rub it in with your hand or a soft cloth until it dries. You should repeat this process until your pet is completely clean and odorless. Just be careful that they aren’t still wet once you’re finished, or else they could get sick!
Can I Use Human Shampoo / Baby Shampoo / Dish Soap to Bathe My Guinea Pig?
NO, definitely don’t use any other type of soap or shampoo on your pet guinea pigs! These types of shampoo are far too aggressive for their skin, fur, and eyes. Not worth the risk!
Concluding Remarks
You’ve made it to the end of our detailed guide… thanks for reading, and we hope that you’ve found the perfect shampoo for your little buddy!
If you’re still not sure about which product to order, we highly recommend you start with our favorite shampoo. Get yourself a bottle of Earthbath Oatmeal Shampoo, trust us – it’s absolutely fantastic!
Once you get it, try it out on your pets and check their reactions. If they’re happy, clean, and pleasantly scented, then you’re all set! ✨
But in the rare chance that they’re not, you can always return it, get your money back from Earthbath, and then try your next favorite option from this article. We promise that you’ll find your ideal guinea pig shampoo in no time!
Here’s a reminder of our Top Guinea Pig Shampoos
