Adopting a domestic duck or a guinea pig?

Do you prefer the charming cack of a duck majestically navigating your garden pond, or the soothing coo of a guinea pig rolling happily through its hay habitat?

Difficult to decide? To help you in this difficult choice, we present each option in detail.

Habitat: do you have a small pond?

If you are planning to adopt a duck, you need to have enough outdoor space. Ducks need a place to swim, such as a pond or a large pool. They also need shelter to protect them from predators and the weather. It’s also important to note that ducks can be noisy, so you should consider your neighbors.

For guinea pigs, it’s much simpler: all you need is a cage big enough to move around in and exercise in, as well as a place to hide. If you keep them outdoors, you must ensure that they are protected from predators and extreme weather conditions. Unlike ducks, guinea pigs are sensitive to high and low temperatures, so they should be kept in a temperature-controlled environment.

Food: the autonomy of ducks

Guinea pigs are strictly herbivores. Their diet should consist of hay (which helps their teeth wear down naturally and provides essential fiber), fresh vegetables, some fruit in small amounts (as it is high in sugar), and a commercial food for guinea pigs to ensure an adequate supply of vitamin C, which they cannot produce on their own. You will need to feed them yourself regularly.

On the contrary, ducks can feed themselves (depending on the breed)! They are omnivorous and have a varied diet. They typically eat a combination of grains (like corn and wheat), insects, small fish, and aquatic plants. They can also eat the weeds in your garden.

It is important to note that bread is not recommended for ducks as it has no nutritional value and may cause health issues. There are commercial foods specially formulated for domestic ducks that provide an appropriate balance of nutrients.

Sociability: two extraordinary species

Guinea pigs, like ducks, are affectionate animals. However, ducks aren’t known for being “cuddly” pets, but they can become very friendly and learn to trust their owner over time. It is easier to affectionately scratch your guinea pig than your duck.

In addition, you should know that the duck is a social animal and, like hens, it is better to have several of them so that it does not get sad.

A point often forgotten: the eggs

Oh yes ! Canes lay eggs! Some rod breeds even lay as much as the best laying hens! In addition, their eggs are tastefully original.

This is obviously not the case with guinea pigs.

So, domestic duck or guinea pig?

Thus, we have seen the main differences between domestic ducks and guinea pigs: the former need more space, must be bought in batches, are quite autonomous and lay eggs and the latter need very little space and require regular maintenance.

Nevertheless, beyond the practical dimension, it is obviously the affection that counts.

If you find charm in the idea of ​​sharing your life with a companion who brings a touch of nautical adventure to your daily life, then a duck could be the perfect pet for you. Imagine sitting in your garden on a quiet morning with your coffee in hand, watching your pet duck move gracefully over its little pond, its flippers wading happily through the water, creating rippling circles that dance across the surface. And what about those delicious moments of complicity when your duck comes to you, waddling with that mischievous and endearing look that is the hallmark of these creatures! Ducks bring a touch of wonder and discovery to every day spent with them.

For guinea pigs, imagine coming home after a long day, sitting on the couch, and being greeted by chirps of happiness and joy from your little rodent. These charming creatures are little balls of fur, buzzing with happiness, ready to happily explore the space you have prepared for them. They love cuddles and company, so they’re perfect for quiet evenings watching TV or reading a book, with a little companion snuggled up next to you. Guinea pigs have this unique way of making you feel loved and appreciated, one look with their sweet little eyes and you feel like the center of their world.

So, #teamCanard or #teamCochondInde?