How many Guinea Pigs make a Home?
The ideal number of guinea pigs to keep depends on various factors, including the available space, the amount of time and attention you can dedicate to them, and the social dynamics of the guinea pigs themselves. Guinea pigs are social animals and generally thrive better in pairs or small groups rather than alone.
It's often recommended to keep at least two guinea pigs together, as they can provide companionship for each other. If space and resources permit, a small group of three or more guinea pigs can also be a good option, as long as they get along well.
In the wild, guinea pigs live in groups of 10 or more as they are social creatures, and like company. As pets they are usually kept in pairs; two females (sows) will live happily together, as will two males (boars), particularly if they are brothers. Two boars of different ages will usually live together, as long as there are no females around. If a female and male live together the male should be castrated, otherwise you will end up with many more guinea pigs than you were expecting! When you buy two guinea pigs do check that they have been sexed properly so that you don't end up with any small surprises.
If you start with a pair, and are unlucky enough to suffer a bereavement you can usually reintroduce another guinea pig to your single one. If you do just keep a single guinea pig then they can derive company from a soft toy the same size as themselves, or you can give then a mirror, that way they see another guinea pig all day but get to keep all the food for themselves!
If you do buy a male and female, intentionally or otherwise, they will be capable of breeding from 3-4 wks of age. They will need to be kept separate until the male is old enough to be castrated, and the earliest this can be done is at 4 months of age.
What about Guinea Pigs & Rabbits?
Although there are exceptions to every rule, and you may know of someone who keeps a rabbit and guinea pig together, this is generally not a good idea.
A rabbit can easily hurt a guinea pig with its powerful back legs, even unintentionally, should it stamp its feet and kick the guinea pig by mistake.
They also have different dietary requirements, guinea pigs need lots of vitamin C and rabbit food does not contain any.
Finally the rabbit can carry a bacterial infection called Bordetella which does not affect the rabbit, but might make the guinea pig very sick if it catches it.
Introducing new Guinea Pigs.
If you are introducing two guinea pigs together for the first time then it should be done on neutral territory, rather than in the hutch that belongs to one or other of them. There will be a certain amount of chasing around and teeth chattering, and if they are boars, some throaty rumbles as well. However it is very unlikely to come to battle!
It's important to note that introducing new guinea pigs to an existing group should be done carefully to avoid aggression.
Either way, lots of food should be provided from several food bowls, and piles of greens on the floor, and then they are likely to engage in their favourite activity of eating, and where better to get to know someone than over dinner! If lots of tubes and cardboard boxes or shelters are provided as hideaways they should soon settle down together. If they are getting on too well just check their sexes again, or ask someone experienced with guinea pigs to check for you!
In Conclusion
With their charming personalities and gentle demeanor, guinea pigs make delightful pets for individuals and families alike, providing endless joy and companionship.
If you are considering keeping guinea pigs, take into consideration they require adequate social interaction, mental stimulation, and veterinary care is crucial for their well-being.
Keep in mind that the more guinea pigs you have, the more space and resources (such as food and bedding) they will require.
It is essential to do thorough research, including proper housing, diet, and healthcare.
Additionally, be prepared to spend time interacting with and caring for your guinea pigs on a daily basis.