by Angel Quinton

Created on: October 01, 2010

Guinea pigs, or cavies as otherwise known, are social creatures. In the wild they live in herds with a strong social links and a pecking order. Although they will bond with humans and enjoy your company they are happiest with their own kind. Just imagine yourself spending your whole lifetime with anther species that you cannot fully communicate with? Not an appealing option? It is equally unappealing to your guinea pig.

It is therefore important as a guinea pig owner that you understand how to introduce two or more guinea pigs to each other. Even if you have a pair of guinea pigs that you have had since they were babies, if the worst happens to one of them it is advisable to get a new friend for the one you have left, so its best to be prepared.

One of the important things to note is that generally it is recommended that you only keep two boars (boys) together. It has been known for more than two to work but it is the exception. Boars are extremely territorial and fights are likely unless the boars are especially submissive. Sows (girls) can be kept in any number providing the space available is big enough. Also a boar that has been neutered can be introduced with a sow or group of sows.

When buying guinea pigs to introduce always be prepared for the possibility they will not get on some do not.. So a spare cage, is essential. If this happens and you have had them from a rescue there is a possibility that the rescue will allow you to try another guinea pig. It is better take in rescue guinea pigs as there are many needing homes.

Reputable rescues will have already quarantined the guinea pigs so you will not need to do this. If you are unsure if they have been properly quarantined keep the guinea pig in a separate place for existing guinea pigs for two weeks to ensure they have not got any illnesses. A lice treatment may be routinely given as well to ensure they do not pass lice onto your guinea pigs.

If buying from a someone inexperienced, if you cannot tell yourself, get an experienced person or vet to tell you what sex your guinea pig is. There are many occasions of pet shop staff getting it wrong. Guinea pig boars can reproduce from as early as three weeks old. If a sow gets pregnant at an early age she can have complications or even die so make sure you are positive on the gender of your guinea pigs before introducing them. As cute as babies are it is really not a good idea to breed if you are inexperienced or even if you are as they are so many

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