How To: Bathe a guinea pig

Guinea pigs rarely need baths, but if your furry friend is dirty or oily, a quick wash is a good idea. He'll squeal in protest now, but he'll thank you later. Watch this Howcast video to learn how to bathe your guinea pig.

You Will Need
* A guinea pig in need of a bath
* A small plastic tub or clean sink
* Mild puppy or baby shampoo
* Two towels
* A small animal comb
* A hairdryer

Step 1: Line the sink
Line the sink or plastic tub with a towel, to prevent slipping.

Step 2: Ready a towel
Have another clean, dry towel nearby.

Step 3: Fill the sink
Fill the sink with a couple of inches of lukewarm (not hot!) water.

Step 4: Wet the fur
Put your guinea pig in the sink and gently wet the fur on his body. Avoid his head, and make sure not to get water in his ears, eyes, or nose.

Step 5: Calm your pet
Speak to your guinea pig in a soothing voice, and use gentle movements.

Step 6: Lather up
Lather a little bit of shampoo into your guinea pig's damp fur. Don't forget his tummy and rear end.
*Tip: Guinea pigs' butts tend to get especially dirty, so give extra attention to the back half of his body.

Step 7: Rinse
Rinse your guinea pig thoroughly with clean lukewarm water. You can use a cup to pour water over your guinea pig's back without getting it in his eyes.

Step 8: Dry
Dry your guinea pig gently but thoroughly with a clean towel.

Tip: If your guinea pig has long fur, you can dry him with a hairdryer set on low. First, check to make sure the noise doesn't hurt his sensitive hearing. Comb out his hair when dry.

Step 9: Give a reward
Give your furry friend a kiss and a choice bite of greens once he's back in his cage. He's earned it!