Contrary to its name, the guinea pig is not a member of the pig family. Even though they aren’t pigs, guinea pigs still make cute and unique pets. If you’re interested in adopting a guinea pig, talk to your vet Crown Point, IN first. Your vet can help you decide whether or not a guinea pig would be a fit for your home. The guinea pig is also known as a cavy and actually belongs to the rodent family Caviidae. Guinea pigs are native to South America and not Guinea as their name may suggest. These small creatures are generally calm and docile. They love to play and are extremely vocal when they are happy and excited. There are three types that include the Smooth-coated with short and glossy fur, the Abyssinian with fluffy puffs of hair all over, and the Peruvian with long and silky hair that flows to the ground.