Grooming NZ Peruvian

Essential Grooming and Coat Care for our Longhair Heritage Breed.

Grooming A Peruvian Videos

Watch and learn essential coat maintenance techniques

Grooming Guide

  • Daily grooming is needed for the New Zealand Peruvian Guinea Pigs.  This includes combing their hair to prevent knots

  • If you do not exhibit your NZ Peruvian in a pedigree show it is recommended to give your guinea pig hair trims, especially around the bottom where it can get dirty and wet.  Hair trims should be done carefully every 2-4 weeks.  Hairdresser scissors are recommended

  • If you are showing your Peruvian at a pedigree show you do not want to give hair trims and will need to spend more time at trying to keep the hair clean and knot free.  This includes paper wrapping and more frequent baths

Paper Wraps

Exhibitors use paper wraps to keep long coats clean, protected, and show ready.  Keep an eye on the wraps and how the cavy reacts to it and make sure it's not too tight.  This needs to be done daily with a comb beforehand.


Essential Supplies

  • Paper towels

  • Elastic bands (or loom bands)

Step-by-Step Technique

  • Fold a paper towel into three equal parts

  • Divide the guinea pig's coat into three sections: left side, right side, and rump

  • Place one section of hair onto the middle fold of the paper towel and fold up

  • Wrap the paper towel securely around the hair

  • Fasten the wrap in place using an elastic band

Pro Tip

Every exhibitor develops their own unique style. The best way to learn is to attend an

Independent Cavy Club show

to see this live and get hands-on advice.