Bullying

Question
Hi Andy,

I initially had one female guinea pig, Lucky, who is one month old. Recently, I've introduced two other females, Squirrel and Piggy, who are 4 months and 2 years old, respectively.

It's been two nights, and well, the best I can say is that there's no blood. However, I am really concerned for Lucky as she is the youngest of the group. She seems to get picked on a lot, and she happens to be my favorite so I hope that I won't one day find her murdered by her roommates. Whenever she's in her box, and one of the bigger ones happen to barge in, they seem to either bite or pinch Lucky's bottom, which sends her flying out. There are three shelters in total in the cage, so they each have their own.

Whenever Lucky's feeding, one would come around and do the same, sending her scrambling off. Lucky does NOT look like she's having fun, and seems to always be running away or hiding from these two 'bullies'. Luckily for Lucky, she found a spot behind the shelters that the fatter ones cannot get into, so she can seek refuge there.

There hasn't been any teeth chattering or extreme violence of any sort, though I worry that maybe Lucky was better off without these two. I initially thought it would be best for her with some playmates, but I'm starting to have second doubts. The hutch is large, and space/food shouldn't be an issue, as hay and water are available at all times, though I only feed their pellets once a day at the same time to establish some routine.

Is this normal behavior? Will they eventually bond? Anything I can do to make them at ease with each other?

Thanks,
Dickson

Answer
Hi Dickson

Firstly, I dont think you did the wrong thing in getting lucky some friends.

The behaviour you describe sounds to me like the older pigs are establishing themselves as dominant over lucky. However, the seriousness depends on whether Squirrel and Piggy actually bite lucky or if its more of a head butt. Please check lucky closely for bite marks.

Provided you find no evidence of actual bite/injuries, I would say there is every chance the 3 will bond but if injury has been caused it might be best to separate lucky at least until she is bigger.

Andy