Capybara care tools and calculators
This page brings together every XpertsPet tool for capybaras: 29 in all, across 15 topics including age, behavior, breeding, cost, grooming and health. Pick a topic above to see its tools, or read on for a quick guide to what each group does and where to start.
Capybaras at a glance
Expect a lifespan of roughly 8 to 12 years for a well-kept capybara. Capybaras are herbivores, which shapes what you feed and how much. Most adults weigh around 35-66 kg. They reach maturity at about 1.5 years old.
Capybaras are semi-aquatic herd animals that need a large outdoor enclosure with a pool deep enough to submerge in, plus a heated shelter. They are illegal to keep in many places and must never be kept alone.
The health problems vets see most often in capybaras include scurvy from vitamin C deficiency, dental overgrowth, skin problems without water access and obesity.
Gestation in capybaras runs about 130 to 150 days.
Capybara quick facts
| Measure | Capybara |
|---|---|
| Typical lifespan | 8–12 years |
| Adult weight | 77–146 lb (35–66 kg) |
| Diet | Herbivore |
| Mature at | About 1.5 years |
| Pregnancy | 130–150 days |
| Litter size | 2–8 |
| Humidity | 40–60% |
Where to start
- Thinking about getting a capybara? Start with the adoption tools to see what you are signing up for.
- Setting up a home? The housing calculators size the space and work out how much bedding or substrate you need.
- Unsure about feeding? The nutrition tools give a daily amount you can adjust as you go.
- Raising a young capybara? Use the weight and growth tools to check it is on track.
- Caring for an older capybara? The age tools show its life stage and what usually changes next.
Other small & companion mammals
If you keep more than one kind of animal, there are tools for dog, cat, rabbit and hamster. You can also browse every pet on XpertsPet.