Post by Linda on Feb 27, 2007 11:26:01 GMT -5
Guinea pigs are naturally herd animals, for your guinea pigs to thrive, it need the company of another guinea pig. Even if you are with your guinea pig almost 24/7 no amount of human contact will make up for interaction with its own species.
Guinea pigs, are reported to really "come out of their shell" when they have the company of another pig. A supposed "lazy" pig will begin to run and popcorn with their new friend.
Many people seem to believe it is impossible to house two males together; this is a myth. It is true that it can sometimes be harder for males to get along, but primarily it is personality not gender that will be the key factor in two guinea pigs getting along. The larger the cage the higher the success rate!
Guinea pigs and rabbits
Another common myth, which is fueled by irresponsible breeders and pet stores, is that rabbits and guinea pigs can live together. Guinea pigs and rabbits originate form totally differnt parts of the world, and have different dietry needs. There is also the problem of the rabbit intentionally or accidently hurting the guinea pig. Rabbits have very powerful back legs, that would almost certainly kill an innocnet guinea pig who got in the way of them!
Please try your hardest to find you guinea pig, a friend of the same species
Guinea pigs are completely dependant on their carers to provide the love, attention and stimulation they need in order to reach their full life expectancy.
The 11 Rules of Cavy Companionship is an original list thought up by Laura as a quick guide to guinea pig care. The ideas mentioned may not be agreed by everyone, but when the 10 Rules are followed you will discover the huge benefits - for both piggies and you.
1. Adopt, don't buy
2. Keep piggies in groups of two or more
3. Never breed piggies
4. Never keep rabbits and cavies together
5. Provide suitable, spacious accommodation
6. Feed a nutritonally balanced and complete diet
7. Groom your guinea regularly
8. Offer floor time regularly
9. Handle your piggies often
10. Prevent piggy boredom by providing plenty of fun toys
11. Be vigilent about health checks. If your piggie might be sick or is acting oddly, get to a vet!
caviesunited.bravehost.com/10rules.html
Guinea pigs, are reported to really "come out of their shell" when they have the company of another pig. A supposed "lazy" pig will begin to run and popcorn with their new friend.
Many people seem to believe it is impossible to house two males together; this is a myth. It is true that it can sometimes be harder for males to get along, but primarily it is personality not gender that will be the key factor in two guinea pigs getting along. The larger the cage the higher the success rate!
Guinea pigs and rabbits
Another common myth, which is fueled by irresponsible breeders and pet stores, is that rabbits and guinea pigs can live together. Guinea pigs and rabbits originate form totally differnt parts of the world, and have different dietry needs. There is also the problem of the rabbit intentionally or accidently hurting the guinea pig. Rabbits have very powerful back legs, that would almost certainly kill an innocnet guinea pig who got in the way of them!
Please try your hardest to find you guinea pig, a friend of the same species
The 11 Rules of Cavy Companionship
Guinea pigs are completely dependant on their carers to provide the love, attention and stimulation they need in order to reach their full life expectancy.
The 11 Rules of Cavy Companionship is an original list thought up by Laura as a quick guide to guinea pig care. The ideas mentioned may not be agreed by everyone, but when the 10 Rules are followed you will discover the huge benefits - for both piggies and you.
1. Adopt, don't buy
2. Keep piggies in groups of two or more
3. Never breed piggies
4. Never keep rabbits and cavies together
5. Provide suitable, spacious accommodation
6. Feed a nutritonally balanced and complete diet
7. Groom your guinea regularly
8. Offer floor time regularly
9. Handle your piggies often
10. Prevent piggy boredom by providing plenty of fun toys
11. Be vigilent about health checks. If your piggie might be sick or is acting oddly, get to a vet!
caviesunited.bravehost.com/10rules.html