Introducing two guinea pigs slowly and safely is important to ensure that they bond and do not injure each other.
Ensure your guinea pigs are the same sex to avoid accidental breeding!
The first step in introducing two guinea pigs is ensuring your cage is big enough for two guinea pigs. Cages and enclosures that are too small increase the risk of fighting due to stress. The minimum for two guinea pigs is 4ftx2ft enclosures (see guide for cage size recommendations ).
Introductory Steps:
- Give your guinea pig a few days to settle into their new home before attempting an introduction. Letting them decompress for at least three days prior to introduction is key to establishing a healthy and safe connection between your guinea pigs.
- Start introductions slowly by allowing your guinea pigs to see and smell each other from afar without physical interaction. Continue for several days while watching them closely for signs of stress or aggression.
- When it is time for them to meet, find a neutral space. This could be a contained space outside or a spare room. Make sure the area is large enough so that they have somewhere to escape if they feel overwhelmed.
- In the beginning, they may not spend time together. With time, they will build confidence and become closer.
- Watch for positive signs they are getting along, such as grooming each other, lying next to each other, and sharing food and water.
- Signs that your guinea pigs are not getting along include constant teeth chattering, biting, hiding from each other, and chasing. These behaviors are to be expected at first, but it’s important to take your time. If any guinea pigs show signs of aggression, separate them and try again another day.
- Providing vegetables and treats for your guinea pigs to share is a great way to encourage bonding.
We are always here to help! You can find additional behavior and training resources at pasadenahumane.org/behavior.
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