Q&A for How to Make Sure Your Guinea Pig Is Happy

Guinea pigs are ground dwelling animals, so it's scary for them to be picked up and whizzed into the air. First, get them used to you by speaking softly and hand-feeding them. Then, get them used to being touched and handled on the ground. Once they are comfortable with this, lift them into your lap whilst seated on the ground. Once they don't mind this this, try picking them up wrapped in a towel. This helps them feel more secure, and you will feel more confident that you won't get scratched and drop them.

Slowly build their confidence and make them trust you. Do this by talking to them, offering tasty fruit treats, and stroking them. Once they trust you, make sure the room is quiet with no other pets around, so they feel safe. It might be the act of lifting them out is frightening them, as it means swinging up into the air. Try covering their eyes with your hand and holding them securely against you so that they feel reassured and less anxious.

This depends on what triggers your asthma. Substances such guinea pig dander and saliva, along with hay and straw, can be allergens associated with asthma in some people. Before committing yourself to guinea pigs, it would be wise to speak with your doctor.

Two males from the same litter that were raised together generally get along just fine. To ensure they are happy and don't need to fight, make sure they have plenty of space to roam and provide two of everything: two hides, two food bowls, two water sippers, etc. This means they never have to be in conflict over resources.

A stressed guinea pig is an unhappy pig and risks "gut stasis," where their digestive system shuts down. If your guinea pig needs a bath, make sure the water is warm but not hot. Use a bowl, and angle it on a book so there is a deep and shallow end. Only put sufficient water in such that the shallow end is either 'dry' or less the 1/4 inch deep. Place the guinea pig with their head at the shallow end and this should help them stay calm.

Guinea pigs are social animals and do love having a companion. However, if you are committed to giving the guinea pig lots of attention, then a lone guinea pig can be happy. It helps if the cage is situated in a room where they have human company and you can talk to them regularly. In addition, make a positive effort to handle the guinea pig at least twice a day, give the pig a stimulating environment (giving toys and putting food inside cardboard tubes), and chatting to them each time you pass by.