Guinea pigs take the cake when it comes to breeding creations—they are some eye-catching critters. There are so many fascinating patterns and wacky hairdos. But if you’re wondering about eye color, what are guinea pig eye possibilities? Well, there are a few, and coat pattern and color choice have a lot to do with it.
If you’re planning on buying a guinea pig or researching your own, you might want to find out how eye color is determined. Is eye color something that can change or form over time? Let’s talk about each color and how rare it is.
A Little About Guinea Pigs & Eye Color
Guinea pigs are fascinating little fluff balls, to say the least. They have so many unique color variations, hairstyles, and personalities to share with their humans. Everyone who has loved a guinea pig knows all about their giant heart-melting doe eyes.
But did you know that there are over six eye color possibilities for guinea pigs? That’s right—they gain eye color with combinations of their parent’s DNA.
Guinea pigs might be blessed with beautiful eyes, but they have pretty crummy vision. That’s probably especially bad for them, given that they are prey animals. But when kept as pets, it won’t matter much.
The 6 Types of Guinea Pig Eye Colors
There are six main eye colors, cascading from dark to bright.
1. Black
Black eyes can show up in virtually any coat color. In all reality, black is an incredibly dark brown pigment—or a lot of melanin.
2. Brown
Brown is the most common eye color for guinea pigs. Brown can be very dark to somewhat honey-colored.
3. Dark Ruby
Dark ruby is a beautiful deep red color with a shiny glow. Roans and chocolate guinea pigs are more likely to have dark ruby eyes.
4. Ruby
Ruby eyes are vibrant and beautiful. Light-colored guinea pigs, including albinos, are more likely to have ruby eyes.
5. Blue
Blue is the rarest of all guinea pig colors. While this blue is incredibly dark with a grayish hue, like the ocean—they definitely have actual blue pigment.
6. Pink
Pink eyes are one of the more noticeable colors. Beige and Argente guinea pigs are more likely to have pink eyes.
Do Guinea Pigs’ Eyes Change Color?
Guinea pig eyes don’t typically change color after they’re fully grown. However, during their early days, the color will form over time.
Baby guinea pigs might have cloudy, mostly black eyes but their irises develop into much lighter colors as they grow. Most eye colors are intense.
Eye Issues with Guinea Pigs
Typically, your guinea pig’s eyes should be clean, luminescent, and clear. There shouldn’t be any buildup or discharge in the corners. Like possible health issues in any part of the body, guinea pigs can sometimes have trouble with their eyes. Eye changes can signal other health conditions, too.
If you notice any signs that can go hand-in-hand with other illnesses, always pay attention to them. Guinea pigs don’t typically show signs of disease until it’s already very advanced.
Normal Guinea Pig Eyes
All guinea pig eyes should be clean, clear, and free of any debris. If you notice any drastic change in your guinea pig’s eyes, you might want to see a veterinarian. Sudden changes like this can point to a health concern that requires examination from a professional.
If you have any issues or concerns with a guinea pig’s eyes, don’t hesitate to contact your vet.
Final Thoughts
Now you’re familiar with all the adorable iris colors of the guinea pig. Even though they can’t see very well, guinea pigs make up for it with their other senses. If you noticed any sudden changes or irritation around your guinea pig’s eyes, make sure to check with your vet to resolve the underlying issue.
Featured Image Credit: furbymama, Pixabay
