Family Caviidae refers to a group of mammals commonly known as cavies, or more commonly as guinea pigs. These small, herbivorous rodents are native to South America and are popular pets around the world. Synonyms for Family Caviidae include the order Rodentia, the genus Cavia, and the species Cavia porcellus. Other common names for guinea pigs or similar animals include cuy, cobayo, and curi. Although often kept as pets, guinea pigs are also used for medical research due to their genetic similarity to humans. They are social animals and thrive in groups, making them great companions for those looking to add a furry friend to their family.