Meeting other pets

Question
Hi Matt

I have 3 cats 1 dog and of course a guinea pig.I just got my guinea pig for Christmas 2006 and now I want to have my piggy to meet my other cats and dog.So how should I do it?

Hannah

Answer
Introducing your guinea pig can be quite tricky.  The main thing about it is to BE CAREFUL.  I will tell you some steps to take while introducing.

First, let your pets go near the cage.  Don't open the cage, just let all the animals sniff each other out through the bars.  This way, your guinea pig will feel protected and will have a place to hide if he gets scared.  It will also allow you to see how your animals are reacting.  If your dog is going nuts and your cats are batting at the cage, you probably shouldn't take the guinea pig out.

If all goes well, you can take the guinea pig out.  Do not let him on the floor with the other pets.  Hold your piggy, and have somebody else hold the other pet that you are introducing at the time.  Let them see each other from a distance and then bring them closer.  Hold the guinea pig so that its head is not facing the dog/cat.  Let the other pet sniff the guinea pig's back and butt area so that it can get a feel for it.  If they try to bite the guinea pig, say no and don't let them see it again until later.  

If the method of you holding the piggy and somebody else holding the other animal works, you can try to let them see each other without being held.  This is a little risky, and you should keep a very close eye on the situation.  If the cat or dog lunges at the guinea pig, then take the guinea pig away.  Also, if things seem to be getting a little weary, stop the meeting and separate the animals.  

There is no guarantee that your animals will get along with the guinea pig.  It all depends on their personalities.  Before you even start the introductions, you have to think of a few questions.  Do your cats and your dog usually chase small animals?  Do your pets have a history of aggression towards rodents?  Are your pets mellow and accepting of other animals?  

One very important rule of thumb for this is that you should NEVER leave your pets unattended with your guinea pig, no matter how well they get along.

I hope I could be of some help.  Good luck.