Guide to Cavy Breeds.
Cavies originate from South America there were first
brought into Europe at the end of the 16th centuary, by
spanish explorers. Before the spanish conquest of South
America the Incas relied on Cavies as a food source. They
are still kept and eaten today in Peru, living free on the
floors of the houses. There are now many different
varieties of domestic cavy, here I have compiled as much
information on the breeds available today as I can. There are
many new breeds that have also been officially introduced
recently, breeds tend to vary from country to country and
there are also many "experimental or rare varietys that
breeders are currently developing.
Selfs:
Selfs are a group of cavies that are one solid colour, they have
short hair and are known mainly as English selfs or Americans.
Long Haired breeds:
Long Haired cavies require regular grooming and are there for not
advicable for the first time cavy owner, again there are many
different types available and many newer varieties that are created
by crossing two longhaired breeds together.In the majority of
countries Long Haired cavies are judged on their coat and not on
their colour.
Marked Varieties:
The largest group, marked breeds are short haired like selfs, but
their coat contains two or more colours.
Rough Coated Breeds:
With a coat length longer than selfs and marked vaieties but shorter than
long haired varities rough coated breeds are popular and make good pets.
Others:
Includes cavies do not fall under other catogories, usually that are
recently developed.